The people of the Shaker communities have a wonderful history of handicrafts such as basket-weaving, floral and herbal crafts, and, of course, gorgeous furniture. Compared to the decadence of the artistic Victorian look in the 1800’s, the simplicity and clean lines of Shaker furniture must have seemed like a breath of fresh air!
The Shaker people, led by their founder Mother Ann Lee, came from England and first settled in New York in 1774. They were a religious group, and their popularity soon spread to 19 communal settlements – over 200,000 members! A simple and spiritual lifestyle was recommended in a century of industrialization and booming cities.
The Shakers infused their architecture, clothing, textiles, and their furniture with their simplistic philosophy. “Hands to Work, Hearts to God” was their motto. Only one Shaker community remains, and it’s here in Maine! In New Gloucester, the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village has been preserved and is still a working homestead for its remaining followers.
The arts of these salt-of-the-earth people became part of the American design landscape along with the Arts and Crafts movement and Frank Lloyd Wright. Today, the remarkable popularity of Shaker-style furniture is a steadfast testament to the ones who, with simple carpenter tools, an eye for beautiful simplicity and ingenious practicality, created one of the most popular décor looks of all time.
STURBRIDGE SHAKER – Here at Sturbridge Yankee Workshop, we honor both our American and New England heritage by offering three different styles of Shaker Furniture. Choose from Country Shaker, Apple Hill or Casco Bay. Each is unique, so check them out! We have an array of tables and desks that come in many colors. Call us if you have any questions about what we offer!
Click here for more information about Sturbridge Shaker Furniture.The photograph below shows some Shaker furniture. Used with permission by Wikipedia:
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