The serenity of the setting, among low hills and meadows, and the carefully considered placement of the buildings and their relationships with each other are the essence of Shaker philosophy, "Order is Heaven's law." Of the 20 restored buildings that make up the village, its signature structure is easily the 1826 round stone barn. The Shaker preoccupation with functionalism joined with purity of line and respect for materials has never been clearer than it is in the design of this building -- its round shape expedited the chores of feeding and milking livestock by arranging cows in a circle, and the precise joinery of the roof beams and support pillars is a joy to observe.

The second must-see is the brick dwelling that contained the communal dining room, kitchens, and sleeping quarters. Sexes were separated at meals, work, and religious services, and such features as the opposing staircases leading to male and female "retiring rooms" served equality.

While artisans and docents demonstrate Shaker crafts and techniques, only those in the Schoolhouse and the Trustee's Office and Store dress in period clothing to portray Shaker inhabitants. All are knowledgeable about their subject, though, and dispense such nuggets as explanations of the Shaker discipline that required members to dress the right side first, to button from right to left, and to step with the right foot first.

The museum shop is excellent, and a cafe serves lunches in summer and fall, with some dishes based on Shaker recipes. On Saturday nights from July to October, the village presents tours and Shaker four-course dinners at a cost of about $40. Reservations for these are essential.