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Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill has officially opened a Children’s Playscape that uses all natural materials and blends seamlessly into the scenery of  the historic property. 

The playscape is located by the outdoor dining section of  The Trustees’ Table restaurant, so adults can keep a watchful eye on kids at play.  

The playscape gives kids the opportunity to discover the historic architecture and cultural  landscape of the Village while having fun and meeting new friends, including the four-legged  variety whose paddocks overlook the playscape. Kids of all ages are invited to come out and  play when visiting or dining at the Village.  

“Many of our guests had their first Shaker Village experience as a child on a school field trip.  Those memories last a lifetime, and we are dedicated to creating memories for the next  generation,” said Shaker Village President and CEO Bob Gigliotti. “This project was made  possible thanks to the generous contributions of two donors, and we can’t thank them enough  for adding this experience for our youngest guests to enjoy for years to come.” 

The playscape was dedicated to former Shaker Village President and CEO Maynard Crossland  during a special ceremony on April 6 during the first Family Farm Days event of the season. The  playscape was conceptualized under Crossland’s leadership and is one of the initial projects to  be completed on a list of upgrades and new additions on Shaker Village’s Long-Range Plan.  

The Children’s Playscape was designed using materials including logs, branches, stones, sand  and water. The team at Shaker Village was inspired by the natural playscape at Bernheim  Arboretum and Research Forest and formed a supportive partnership with them to help  conceptualize the Children’s Playscape at the Village. The playscape was built into an  environment that encourages children to climb, build and explore. 

Guests are encouraged to visit the Children’s Playscape seven days a week, and especially  during Music on the Lawn, a free gathering from 6:30-9:30 p.m. every Friday and Saturday  beginning in May.  

For more information, please visit shakervillageky.org.