The United Society of Believers in Christ’s Second Appearing, more commonly known as the Shakers, is a millenarian restorationist Christian sect founded in the 18th century in England. They were initially known as “Shaking Quakers” because of their ecstatic behavior during worship services. In 1747, women assumed leadership roles within the sect, notably Jane Wardley, and Mother Ann Lee. Shakers settled in colonial America, with initial settlements in New Lebanon, New York (called Mount Lebanon after 1861). They practice a celibate and communal lifestyle, pacifism, and their model of equality of the sexes, which they institutionalized in their society in the 1780s. They are also known for their simple living, architecture, and FURNITURE.

Presented by Mike Chaplin, THE SHAKERS AND THEIR FURNITURE will include a short film by Ken Burns (PBS) on the Shakers, photo tours of three Shaker villages from his travels – Hancock Shaker Village, Hancock, Mass; Canterbury Shaker Village, Canterbury, NH; and Pleasant Hill Shaker Village, Pleasant Hill, KY, an academic presentation of Shaker furniture design principles, and finally many photos of iconic and beautiful (works of art) furniture creations.