We are continuing to explore more cultural fusion in some of our favorite Kentucky places.

While walking through the knobs and meadows thirty miles south of Louisville, we’re greeted by trolls from Danish lore.  Artist Thomas Dambo from Denmark created the troll family of Mama Loumari, Little Nis and Little Elina using recycled and repurposed materials.  The three giants in Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest are part of an installation with currently more than forty trolls around the world.  (There is even a troll map to see the locations.) 

To learn more about Dambo’s project and to see photos of his other trolls, read this National Geographic article.

While hiking to find the wooden giants, we also encountered an edible garden, honey bee and bird houses, lakes and an exhibit about Kentucky women suffragists. 

About an hour and 15 minutes east from Bernheim is Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill. The Shakers were 19th century America’s largest communal society.  Originating in England in 1747, the group sailed for the United States in 1774 and  established various communities such as this one, founded in 1808.  When visiting, you can feel yourself welcomed into the Shakers’ peaceful life that was based upon sustainability and simplicity.

The cool October evening included watching the full moon rise around a crackling fire pit. Chris Sullivan, one of our favorite local musicians, not only played guitar and sang but also shared his personal connection to each song. 

Our outdoor dinner could not have been more comforting…a Kentucky hot brown that was authentic with oven roasted turkey breast,  applewood bacon, slow roasted tomatoes and a smoked gouda mornay sauce yet also spiced up with the use of jalepeño bread.

We stayed in the East Family Dwelling which welcomed us with a delightfully comfortable bed, Keurig coffee and first floor living areas that we had to ourselves for relaxing and reading.

And…other fun and curious sights caught our attention.

Although there is only one active Shaker community that remains in Maine (with two elderly members), their belief in freedom from prejudice, pursuit of simplicity and pride in craftsmanship can continue to be a guide for all of us.