South Union Shaker Village

South Union Shaker Village in Auburn, Kentucky, offers a window into a 19th-century religious community that embraced ideals of gender and racial equality uncommon for its time. Spread across nearly 500 acres in Auburn, the site includes nine original buildings, such as the Centre House dormitory, Wash House, Grain Barn, and Shaker Store and Post Office, each reflecting daily life in the village.

Inside the main museum, the exhibit “Dictates of Conscience and Feelings of Humanity: People of Color at South Union, 1807–1860” explores the experiences and contributions of African Americans who lived and worked within the community. Visitors can choose between guided or self-guided tours to explore the grounds and structures.

Accessibility: Accessible parking, restrooms, and a ground-floor museum are available. Some historic buildings and upper levels may have limited access due to uneven surfaces and original construction.