The Shakers

In 1774, a band of English religious dissenters came to America seeking redemption and earthly paradise through hard work and good deeds. They were called Shakers, and their leader was a mysterious and charismatic woman known as Mother Ann Lee. They founded their first community in Watervliet, New York, hoping to convert others to their beliefs and communal lifestyle. This anthology presents Shaker contributions to architecture, furniture design, medicine, farming, craftsmanship, music, and other aspects of American life. It also introduces the philosophy of the Shakers.