Simple and Efficient

Simple and Efficient. The Old Stone Shop, 1811. , Shaker architecture has inspired observers for centuries. Renowned for their creative solutions to the demands of communal living, Shaker buildings were efficient, easy to maintain, and typically designed to inspire a sense of unity within their villages., Although Shaker leaders in the East initially desired standardized architecture, practical concerns often prevailed. In addition to featuring local materials such as limestone and brick, the architecture at Pleasant Hill occasionally displays elements of worldly design that were not present in eastern Shaker communities., High ceilings, large windows, and wide hallways are chief among these "outside" influences, as the Kentucky climate convinced the Believers of the need for improved air circulation within their buildings., "The stone is quite hard, and is obtained not far from the village. The color is light gray, but all used in the dwelling houses are painted white", - Elder Henry C. Blinn, , A Journey to Kentucky in the Year 1873, (Captions):, Background Image: Built as a dwelling for the West Family after the Shakers moved to Pleasant Hill, by the 1820s, more sophisticated brick and limestone dwellings allowed the community to repurpose this structure as a workshop. , 1940 , Credit: Clay Lancaster, The Old Stone Shop seen from the west. The Victorian porch and sign advertising the "Pennebaker Home For Girls" speak to the evolving way of buildings at Pleasant Hill. , 1940 , Credit: Clay Lancaster, Francis Pennebaker sitting on front porch of the Old Stone Shop. Note the simplicity of the limestone façade in comparison to the ornate woodwork on the porch that was added in the late 19th century. , c. Early 20th century