The Shakers ran grist and grain mills from the lakes created when they dammed Doan Creek.

[2][3] In 1826, the group dammed Doan Brook, thus creating the Lower Lake and establishing a gristmill and a sawmill.

[4] The brothers constructed homes, set aside land for churches and schools, and planted trees.

One of them was written in tribute to the Shaker leader, Ann Lee, on her arrival in New York City in 1774.

[3] Media related to North Union Shaker Site at Wikimedia Commons