Traditional Shaker Furniture

 

A Little History of the Shakers:

The Shakers originated in Manchester, England, in1747, officially naming themselves The United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing. Their nickname, Shakers, stemmed from the ecstatic worship practices that included trembling, whirling, and shaking. As Millennialists, they believed the second coming of Christ was embodied in their leader, Ann Lee, affectionately known as Mother Ann. Despite facing misunderstanding and persecution in England, the Shakers managed to cultivate a dedicated following.

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In 1774, Mother Ann Lee made the momentous decision to journey to America, leading eight of her followers in seeking the freedom to live, work, and worship according to their main religious tenets.

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The Shakers excelled in various crafts and trades showcasing their skills in woodworking, metalworking, basketry, spinning, weaving and broom making. They ingeniously established water-powered mills for grinding grain, sawing wood and producing textiles. Known for their honesty and strong work ethic, the Shakers gained a reputation for the high quality of their products, which became a significant source of income for their communities. Their dedication to craftsmanship continues to inspire admiration today.

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Shaker principles of honesty, utility, simplicity and functionality are beautifully reflected in their crafts. Renowned for their minimalist design and exceptional quality, Shaker furniture, boxes, and textiles stand as a testament to a timeless approach to craftsmanship. Each piece tells a story of dedication to form, function, embodying the values that have made their creations truly unique. Experience the elegance of simplicity with these remarkable handcrafted items.