Amanda Birch, Development Coordinator
Every year Pleasant Hill unfolds in its own rhythm. In 2025, that rhythm was shaped by moments of renewal, community and connection from the first bright days of spring to the final celebrations of the season. Across the Village, guests explored, learned and shared in the simple joys that make this place feel like coming home.
As we reflect on all that happened this year, we’re grateful for the steady work that continues to strengthen the Village and carry its spirit forward.
A Year Filled with Shared Experiences
One of the most joyful parts of 2025 was welcoming guests back for traditions both new and old.
- Our nine signature events created moments of celebration, creativity and togetherness throughout the year.
- Explorer Summer Camp filled the Village with curiosity and confidence, with scholarships helping local students join in the fun.
- Families returned for hands-on programs, guided walks and opportunities to discover the Village through fresh eyes.
- Music drifted across the Village all year, including standout performances by the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and the Louisville Orchestra.
Preservation Work That Honors the Past
This year brought meaningful progress across the historic site, with careful stewardship guiding
each project.
- Preservation efforts continued at the East Family Wash House, helping ensure this building remains part of the Village’s story for generations.
- The 1839 Trustees’ Office feasibility study concluded, and the project entered the design phase, shaping the vision for preserving and reimagining this landmark of Shaker hospitality.
- The Carriage House was fully restored after an unprecedented storm caused a tree to fall onto the building, using as many original materials as possible to complete the reconstruction.
- Fresh paint brightened the Stables, Preserve Barn, run-in sheds and the Old Ministry’s Workshop, preserving these working spaces and keeping them welcoming for staff, animals and guests.
- Restoration continued at the West Lot Timber Frame Stable, protecting this rare surviving structure with historically grounded attention.
- Work kicked off at the North Lot Dwelling, beginning a significant chapter in restoring one of Pleasant Hill’s most important structures.
Hospitality Rooted in Tradition
Warm hospitality is a defining thread of Shaker Village, and this year brought new improvements that made the guest experience even more memorable.
- Family-style dining returned to The Trustees’ Table, featuring dishes inspired by Shaker tradition and crafted with produce grown right here on the Farm.
- The Inn strengthened its guest services through dedicated leadership, focusing on the thoughtful touches that turn a stay into a cherished memory.
- A refreshed administrative workspace created a more comfortable and efficient environment for the teams who support every corner of the Village.
Caring for a Living Landscape
From the Preserve to the riverfront, the land at Pleasant Hill continued to flourish through
mindful stewardship.
- Long-term ecological work including bird banding, butterfly tagging and habitat monitoring remained central to caring for the Preserve.
- Prairie restoration progressed alongside plank-fence replacements, strengthening the health and safety of the landscape.
- A new, sustainable effort brought goats into the work of invasive plant control, blending agriculture, conservation and creativity.
- The Farm continued its seed-to-table tradition, nurturing the ingredients that supply the Trustees’ Table with fresh, seasonal flavors.
- Two grants-funded investments helped replace the riverfront boat ramp, creating a safer and more accessible experience for guests exploring the waterway.
Sharing the Shaker Story Every Day
Throughout 2025, visitors connected with Pleasant Hill’s history in meaningful and memorable ways.
- A temporary Carol Peachee photography exhibit in the Centre Family Dwelling offered a fresh look at Shaker life, craftsmanship and belief through photography.
- Daily tours and school field trips brought stories of community, innovation and resilience to life for guests of all ages.
- Volunteers arrived in record numbers, especially during It Takes a Village Volunteer Day, helping tackle projects that keep the Village strong.
Looking Forward
As we close out 2025, we do so with deep appreciation for the people who walk these paths, share in these experiences and care about this special place. This year’s work in preservation, hospitality, education and stewardship reflects the ongoing story of Pleasant Hill. It’s a story still unfolding, carried forward by a community that believes in what this Village offers the world.
Here’s to the year ahead and to all the moments of discovery, connection and renewal still to come.
