The Shakers Author:L. Edward Purcell The Shakers were a fascinating but peculiar religious sect, believing in separation from the world, celibacy, and the perfection of life on earth. Established in America 200 years ago by Mother Ann Lees, the Shaker religion attracted thousands of converts during the 19th century, and Shaker "families" built large village settlements in... more » New England and Ohio and Kentucky. Most of the Shaker villages died out early in the 1900s.
The more than 120 pages of full-color photographs in The Shakers illuminate the Shaker way of life and beautifully illustrate their skills in woodworking, architecture, and a wide range of 19th century talents.
Modern Americans are attracted to the Shakers' carefully designed and made furniture (they strove toward perfection in woodworking as well as in religious practice) and their interesting lifestyle. The Shakers were exquisite craftsmen, careful agriculturalists, and ingenious inventors.
Several popular restorations of Shaker villages, including sites at Hancock, Massachusetts and Pleasant Hill, Kentucky demonstrate the harmony of Shaker life. And, two living Shaker settlements still exist in Maine and New Hampshire. Many other museums and collections feature Shaker displays, and some of the best are shown in this book.
An informative text, as well as a guide to the Shaker sites, museums, and collections, complement a fascinating selection of color photographs in telling the story of this most fascinating of religious sects.« less