The Shaker Adventure

by Marguerite Fellows Melcher

Originally pub. 1941, the author researched the all available writings of the Shakers, and all available writings about them. In 1941, three Shaker communities were still in operation. The book is packed with information about the formation of this sect, the ways in which Shakerism changed over its lifetime, and the reasons for its decline.

319 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1941

Reviews

[Priscilla Herrington · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Shaker Adventure is a scholarly examination of the American Shaker movement that reads like a novel. Marguerite Fellows Melcher took advantage of all available works published by Shakers from the time they first arrived just before the start of the American Revolution. Melcher also utilized writings against the Shakers including newspaper articles.

She places early Shakerism firmly within the Second Enlightenment, casting the Shakers as New Lights. Indeed, some of the early converts included New Light preachers as well as parishioners. Melcher notes the inevitable changes occasioned by America's Industrial Revolution - a change that clashed with Shaker ideals of agricultural and craftsmanship.

While it was inevitable that the Shakers would decline following the Civil War. What is remarkable is the extent to which Shaker ideas and ideals have influenced - and still influence - America. Not only do their artifacts still fascinate - and command high prices whenever they can be found - but their principles of design, of the beauty inherent in simplicity, continue to resound.

[Molly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was excellent. Very readable and compelling.