Curator Erin Budis reminds viewers that the Shakers were part of what they called the World. They adapted others' work. They brought skills with them when they joined the community. Those skills extended beyond furniture making to wood chopping, fence mending and broom making. The exhibit shows Haskins as an excellent cabinetmaker and an important member of the Mount Lebanon Shaker community.
Graphics provide a picture of events outside the community.
Robert Fulton created his steamboat, for instance, and the first sewing machine was invented. The graphics in this display are outstanding overall, both in their placement and visual appeal. Mirrors are used to show signatures, and a hands-on exhibit allows viewers to make a dovetailed joint. Round signs, curved signs, elevated risers, and more, all in one large room, invite inspection. Some objects were borrowed from several private collectors and Hancock Shaker Village.