Shaker Village Brick Dwelling Open Entrance Doorways Stock Photo

Built in 1830, the Dwelling housed 100 Brethren and Sisters in a communal dormitory setting. It contains unique and efficient design elements such as “sliding cupboards” dumbwaiters and “borrowed light” windows placed on interior walls and ceilings to distribute sunlight and fresh air throughout the large structure. The construction reflects the Shakers’ principles of celibacy and equality for all members: It is divided in half, with Brethren and Sisters using separate doors and stairs at all times.