The Shakers were a religious sect that originated in England in the 18th century. They believed in a communal lifestyle, pacifism, and celibacy. The Shakers first came to America in 1774, and they established several communities in New England, including New Hampshire.
The New Hampshire Shakers were a thriving community in the 19th century. They lived in communal villages and worked together to produce a variety of goods, including furniture, textiles, and food. The Shakers were also known for their music and dancing.
The New Hampshire Shakers began to decline in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This was due to a number of factors, including the decline of agriculture in New England, the rise of industrialization, and the changing social mores of the time. The last Shaker community in New Hampshire closed in 1992.
How the New Hampshire Shakers Interacted with Others
The New Hampshire Shakers were a relatively closed community, but they did interact with others in a number of ways. They traded with local farmers and merchants, and they also hired non-Shaker workers to help with their work. The Shakers were also known for their hospitality, and they would often welcome travelers to their communities.
The New Hampshire Shakers were also involved in a number of social and political movements. They were active in the abolitionist movement, and they also supported women's suffrage. The Shakers were also pacifists, and they refused to participate in war.
The New Hampshire Shakers were a unique and important part of New Hampshire's history. They lived a simple and communal lifestyle, and they were known for their hard work, their music, and their dancing. The Shakers also made a significant contribution to New Hampshire's economy and culture.