The Shaker Communities of Kentucky: Pleasant Hill and South Union

Images of America: Kentucky

by James W. Hooper, Larrie Curry (Foreword), Tommy Hines (Foreword)

The Shaker Communities of Kentucky: Pleasant Hill and South Union presents the lives, struggles, and achievements of a remarkable people. The chronicle spans Shaker beginnings in England and relocation to America, the Great Awakening in America followed by the Kentucky Revival, Shaker beginnings in Kentucky, and the establishment of the South Union and Pleasant Hill Shaker villages. The Shaker central ministry sent missionaries to Kentucky from New York in 1805 after hearing about the Kentucky Revival, which culminated with the Cane Ridge Revival of 1801. Their efforts resulted in the establishment of villages in Kentucky, Ohio, and Indiana. Pleasant Hill and South Union were among the most successful and enduring of all the Shaker villages. This volume provides a striking visual portrayal of Shaker life by means of rare vintage images, including beliefs and worship, relationships with other believers and “the world,” and their highly regarded workmanship. Gradual decline resulted in the closing of both villages, but restorations have turned both sites into popular destinations.

130 pages, Hardcover

First published June 5, 2006

Reviews

[Jean Becker]

These post card style books with ancient photographs fill in amazing gaps in the American story. This one, about the Kentucky Shakers, is deftly done. Good for an introduction or this seasoned reader.

[Kathleen Brandt]

Good introduction and overview of the 2 Shaker communities in Kentucky. I have had the opportunity to visit both of them.