Canterbury Shaker Village to Open Special Exhibition for 250-year Commemoration

Commemorating 250 years of Shakerism in America, Canterbury Shaker Village will launch a special exhibit, Keeping Faith, with a members-only preview on Thursday, August 8 and a public opening on Saturday, August 10. These events take place at 3:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., respectively. 

A remnant of a dress once worn by Ann Lee

“We are showcasing some of the most significant objects in our collection, connected to the earliest days of the Shaker community and leadership,” said Education Manager Kyle Sandler. “The exhibit highlights these objects, providing both a biographical and material culture perspective.”

In total, the exhibit will include 16 early Shaker artifacts, some of which include fragments of founding leader Ann Lee’s dress, leader Lucy Wright’s dressing pins, and second leader James Whittaker’s bible.

“Most of these objects are incredibly delicate and cannot be left in a display case for extended periods,” said Sandler. “When people see these items, they will understand their incredible significance.”

At both events, Sandler and Curators Renee Fox and Shirley Wajda will give a talk and offer a tour of the exhibit. Light refreshments will be served at the members preview on Thursday, August 8. This project was made possible with support from New Hampshire Humanities, in partnership with the National Endowment for the Humanities. Learn more at nhhumanities.org.

“The exhibition preserves the unique aspect of Shakerism’s religious and cultural history and invites audiences to reflect on these enduring principles,” added Sandler. 

Keeping Faith is part of the Village’s year-long celebration, Commemorating 250 Years: Shakerism in AmericaClick here to learn more about Commemorating 250 Years: Shakerism in America.

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.

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.