hancock shaker village

I visit at least 7 times a year. Its a wonderful village to learn, relax, explore a people with an ingenious look about nature, animals, the lives they chose to live. I love the tours which include singing, dancing, demonstrations of the Shaker way of life. Go and check this amazing museum out you will not be sorry...sorry to say but most of the buildings are not wheelchair friendly. Call ahead there might be a special event going on.

Rarely seen, a round barn. Leave it to the shakers to come up such an ingenious solution to feeding cattle. Such a peaceful and smart group of people, and they pick the most beautiful places to live (I have also visited Shaker Village at Pleasant Hill in Kentucky). This is well worth the stop if only to see the cows and visit the gift shop full of wonderful treasures, and if you have the time, pay the admission and take a few hours to tour the gardens, buildings and gardens.

We visited the village in a quite cold autumn day with our 2 and 4 years old. They lived to explored the building, and we spent ages in the barn feeding animals and watching them. The heated toy/play room was nice, with different things to try. My son loved the live demonstrations and being able to try things out. It was a very interesting thing for us the adults to see the simple, great looking and efficient design and imagine the lifestyle. Hours and hours of fun for the kids.

We were looking around for places to visit and my wife expressed an interest in visiting the Shaker village. It would not have been my top pick nor did I know much about the Shaker movement.But this was all to the good as I found the visit very interesting and look back on it as highlight of our trip. Yes we learn't about the Shakers and their unusual life style and admired their craftsmanship. But though they have gone their spirit lingers on and all credit to the way in which it is presented. Had the feel of a National Trust property in the UK (a compliment by the way) - nice to experience something of the heritage of the Shaker movement which still has something relevant to say about modern lifestyles. In particular the sense of serenity, peace and idealism; a genuine part of American culture worth experiencing.

A trip to the Shaker Village is a nice way to spend an afternoon. I l especially liked seeing the barn where the cows were kept - ingenious design.There are a number of buildings to explore and the children will like seeing the school and dressing in Shaker clothing. The grounds are beautiful.

Don't know much about Hancock but seems like a nice town to live and it's a beautiful area. I would consider living in Hancock in a log cabin :)

I was surprised at how much I did NOT know about the Shakers. The staff and the craftspeople are friendly and really into their jobs. There are quite a few buildings and there's much to learn. It was a wonderful fall day and we strolled slowly through the buildings. There's a cafeteria but it's expensive. Food was good. It's a real hands on kind of museum.

My wife and I met while working here in 1984. I was a summer craftsman and she an accountant. We have been back many times since and can recommend this museum as a well thought out restoration with much authenticity. Craftspeople perform demonstrations and the animals in the farm areas are of heritage stock.

My wife and me was invited by my cousin, was not very interested, but when the guide showed us around and told us all the stories, and we realised what it was, and how far these people got, we were so impressed, that we will never forget.

I went with my family to see the baby animals this year and it was great. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable about all the animals in their care. My family had a wonderful time.

Lots of hands on fun for the kids. They will enjoy the activities and learn at the same time. Eat before you go.

A very interesting outing. A peaceful, tranquil place and a reminder of simpler times. Quite beautiful in many respects….

Oh how I wish I had allowed more time to spend here! There is so much to see and absorb that you could spend an entire day here. The docents are very interesting and knowledgeable and bring everything to life. But, more importantly, they are unobtrusive, so if you want to wander round on your own you can. The buildings are furnished with original Shaker furnishings and there are handy signs explaining the significance of each item so you can go round at your own speed. The shop is an absolute delight so take your credit card!

An interesting history of a little known, but very influential religious community. They were a group dedicated to serving God according to the dictates of their beliefs.

Didn't know too much on the subject of the Shakers, but after a very informative presentation the subject became quite interesting. Take as much time to wander around the various buildings. Lots to see, so this could turn out to be a full day out.