Shakers

One of America’s most successful utopian movements, known for their celibacy, communal living, and distinctive craftsmanship.


Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Other
Founder: Ann Lee (“Mother Ann”)
Founded: 1747 in England
Size: 6,000 members in 19 communities (1840)
Location: United States
Also called: Shaking Quakers; United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing (USBCSA); United Society of Believers


The Shakers, formally known as the United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, represent a significant chapter in the religious and cultural history of the United States, with their origins tracing back to the 18th century. The foundation of the Shakers lies in the religious ferment of England, where they emerged from a sect of Quakers known as the “Shaking Quakers” due to their ecstatic worship practices. This group was further influenced by the French Camisards, notable for their prophetic leadership and zealous resistance against persecution.

Ann Lee, born in Manchester, England, in 1736, is a central figure in the history of the Shakers. After joining the Shaking Quakers in 1758, Lee’s personal tragedies and spiritual visions led her to become a prominent leader within the sect. In 1774, following a directive vision, Lee and a small group of followers immigrated to America, aiming to establish a new Shaker community. They settled in Niskayuna, later known as Watervliet, near Albany, New York, marking the beginning of Shakerism in the New World.

The Shaker commitment to celibacy, communal living, and equality was radical for its time. These principles, along with their distinctive approach to worship, which included singing, dancing, and speaking in tongues, set the Shakers apart from other religious movements. Their belief in simplicity and utility also manifested in their architectural and furniture design, leaving a lasting impact on American aesthetics.

Despite their initial struggles with establishing a sustainable community in the swampy and dense lands of Watervliet, the Shakers were resilient. Their hard work in draining the land and cultivating crops eventually led to prosperity. This success allowed the community to expand, adopting more converts and establishing additional settlements across the Northeast, Ohio, and Kentucky. By the turn of the 19th century, Shaker communities were known for their architectural innovations and efficient agricultural practices.

The Shakers were pioneers in several respects, not least of which was their approach to communal living. Early on, they lived together in large families in communal settlements, sharing resources and responsibilities. This structure was formalized in 1787 when all members were directed to join communal settlements. The building of communal dwelling houses and meeting houses became central to the expansion and organization of Shaker communities.

Significant growth in membership during the late 18th and early 19th centuries led to the construction of more substantial buildings, including meeting houses that served as the spiritual heart of the communities. These structures were not only places of worship but also reflected the Shakers’ architectural ingenuity and commitment to communal life.

As the 19th century progressed, the Shaker communities faced challenges from within and without, leading to a gradual decline in membership. However, the legacy of the Shakers endures, not only in their contributions to American design and architecture but also in their vision of a society founded on principles of simplicity, equality, and communal care​​​​.

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