Visit The Remains Of A 228-Year-Old Historic Village At The Canterbury Shaker Site In New Hampshire

One of the best ways to understand this state is by learning as much as possible about the people and things that came before us. From buildings to stories that have been passed along, there's history all around us. And one of the most fascinating parts of the state's history can be seen at this historic village in Canterbury.

Established by the followers of Mother Ann Lee in 1792, Canterbury Shaker Village was a thriving religious community until the last Shaker died in 1992. But, things didn’t stop then.

The village has been open as a living history museum to allow folks to learn a bit more about the community that was such an important part of the state for so long.

Those in the Shaker community were pacifists and they lived a celibate life.

One interesting part of their belief system is that men and women were equals. The community worked to make others feel welcome, both by allowing converted members and taking in children without parents.

There’s so much to learn about this community and a visit to the Canterbury Shaker Village is a great way to do it!

A visit means walking through what life was like more than 200 years ago and exploring the many exhibits and live demonstrations.

There are self-guided tours available at all times, but you can also follow a knowledgeable guide through the grounds to truly step back in time.

The entire property is about 700 acres, which means there’s tons to see!

We love the guided tours because they allow for question asking and much deeper insight into life in the village, including their way of life and the crafts they loved.

Most people know the term “Shaker” as it relates to furniture, which means this village had many skilled carpenters and woodworkers.

The woodshop is a great way to learn more.

The traditional buildings allow visitors to envision what life might have been like back in the village’s prime.

If you plan your visit around one of their special events, you’ll have a chance to learn even more.

Plan on spending between two and three hours to see the entire village.

And, before you leave, pop into the museum store to leave with a little piece of history

The Canterbury Shaker Village will be offering free outdoor tours twice a day at 11 a.m. and 2. p.m. on Saturdays and Sunday beginning on July 5. There will also be a series of outdoor concerts beginning in July with a suggested donation is $10. You can keep track of their opening hours through the official National Park Service website. You can also follow the village on Facebook. They can be reached on 603-783-9511.

To learn more about the history of the state, check out these 4 living history museums in New Hampshire that will take you back in time.