Canterbury Shaker Village Attracting Outdoor Enthusiasts
Situated on 700 acres with miles of walking trails, all of which are protected by a conservation and preservation easement, Canterbury Shaker Village is actively catering to outdoor enthusiasts this season.
“We now have an incredible trail map, and we offer sandwiches, salads, and desserts for purchase from Beans & Greens Farm that people can enjoy outside at picnic tables with umbrellas,” explained Executive Director Leslie Nolan. “People have always been welcome to walk our trails, but we are now making it a priority to let people know about them.”
According to Program Coordinator Jill Lessard, outdoor enthusiasts will not be the only ones who avail themselves of their trails. She said their recently released trail map,
developed by Cold Mountain Maps, features a wealth of information about the Shakers. “When you walk the trails, you will know where to look for clues of the many lives that made up this Village for 200 years,” Lessard added.
At its peak, more than 300 people lived, worked, and worshiped in 100 buildings at Canterbury Shaker Village, which originally comprised 2,400 acres. The trails, noted Nolan, have been designed to encourage visitors to explore the land and learn how the Shakers supported their community through innovative farming and a variety of water-powered industries. “The remaining artifacts throughout the trails and on our property help tell their story, which we interpret through our tours, exhibits, buildings, gardens, and programs,” said Nolan.
About Canterbury Shaker Village
Featuring 694 acres of forests, fields, gardens, nature trails, and mill ponds under permanent conservation easement, the Village is designated as a National Historic Landmark with 25 restored original Shaker buildings and 4 reconstructed Shaker buildings. In addition to tours, exhibits, and programs, Canterbury Shaker Village provides wonderful, relaxing, and beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings and events.
Canterbury Shaker Village is a member of the NH Heritage Museum Trail, which connects the public with culturally rich heritage institutions in New Hampshire. For more information about The Trail, visit nhmuseumtrail.org.