Shaker Village holds more than 4,000 three dimensional objects and well over 5,000 library and archival items in its collection.
Collections and Archives
The Collection at Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill documents the long history of Pleasant Hill, both during and after the Shaker era. Buildings, furniture, textiles, tools, personal items, journals, correspondence and photos all reveal what life was once like at Pleasant Hill and provide great insights into how Shaker history is relevant to us today.
The Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill Research Library also contains many valuable resources including microfilm, books, periodicals and photocopies of primary sources.
Read more about the history of the Shakers and this village.
View the calendar to find upcoming Collections and Archives programming.
If you have questions about The Collection, please call 859.734.1549 or email us. Collections staff are generally available Monday-Friday, 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Schedule permitting, appointments to access the collections or the research library can also be arranged during these hours. All appointments must be made in advance of a visit to Shaker Village. Admission to the Research Library is included in general admission to Shaker Village, and free for Annual Passholders.
Research Services
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill has limited staffing and is unable to provide comprehensive research assistance for most external inquiries. Please email us to discuss remote research options and costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What resources are available to the public?
The Collections and Archives Facility provides intentional researchers access to resources including journals, hymnals, ledgers, photographs, manuscripts, correspondence, microfilm and microfiche, books, periodicals and reference files. Rare books, special collections, archives, reference material, 3-dimensional objects and textiles are available to be consulted exclusively within the Research Library in agreement with handling and security policies. Researchers should be aware that portions of the collection have restricted or limited access due to the physical, legal or contractual condition of the materials.
Why do I need an appointment to access resources in the Research Library? I’m already onsite, why can’t I just drop in?
The Research Library supports the research of both primary and secondary sources by scholars, museum professionals, research fellows and staff, so making an appointment in advance is necessary to ensure staff and space will be available to facilitate guest research. By contacting us ahead of time to make an appointment, we can talk with you about your research, tell you if we have what you’re looking for and possibly identify related materials in the collections you might not have known about which may help with your project.
It’s a library, why can’t I check items out?
The Research Library is not a public library, and many items are irreplaceable, regulated and non-circulating. Because we hold a single or unique copy some items which would be costly or impossible to repair or replace, it’s imperative that items from The Collection do not circulate so they can be properly preserved to ensure their accessibility for future generations of researchers.
I can’t travel for an onsite visit. Can you still help me find what I’m looking for?
While staff are unable to provide comprehensive research assistance for external inquiries, we are always happy to answer questions and discuss research options.
Is the collection available to search and view online?
Currently, our object and archival collections are available for searching via PastPerfect Online. Records are continually updated with additional information and new photos, so check back frequently to view more of our collection.
Are you adding to the collections?
Yes. We gladly encourage prospective donors to contact us.
