Shakers

Shaker Cemetery

Shakers Dancing

Polly Ann Reed, A present from Mother Lucy to Eliza Ann Taylor, 1851

Hannah Cohoon, Tree of Life or Blazaing Tree, 1845

Jacob Skeen Genealogical Chronological and Geographical Chart 1887 Cornell CUL PJM 2085 03

William Paul Childers, Shaker Costume, c. 1937, NGA 16138

Shakers, formally known as the United Society of Believers in Christ's Second Appearing, are a religious sect founded in the 18th century in England. They are known for their unique mode of living, including communal living, celibacy, and pacifism. The Shakers emigrated to the American colonies in 1774, where they established several communities, the most notable being in New York, Kentucky, Ohio, and Massachusetts.

Beliefs and Practices

The Shakers' theology is based on the idea of dualism, with God embodying both male and female aspects. They believe in the confession of sin, gender equality, and that they live in the millennium, a period where Christ has already made his second appearance in the form of Mother Ann Lee, the sect's leader. Their worship services are known for their ecstatic nature, including dancing, shaking, and speaking in tongues, which is the origin of their name "Shakers."

Community Life

Shaker communities were designed to be self-sufficient, with members contributing through various trades and crafts. They are particularly noted for their simple yet high-quality craftsmanship in furniture and architecture, which has had a lasting influence on American design. The Shakers practiced celibacy, which meant that they did not marry or bear children, and instead, new members were gained through conversion and adoption of orphans.

Decline

The Shaker movement reached its peak in the mid-19th century, with thousands of members spread across the United States. However, due to their celibate lifestyle and the changing social and economic landscape of the country, their numbers began to decline. Today, there are very few Shakers left, with one active community remaining in Sabbathday Lake, Maine.

Legacy

Despite their dwindling numbers, the Shakers have left a significant legacy, particularly in the fields of music, architecture, and furniture design. Their commitment to simplicity, quality, and functionality in their crafts has been influential. The Shaker style is admired for its minimalist aesthetic and has been incorporated into various aspects of American culture.