Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village In Maine Is Home To The Largest And Last Population Of Shakers In The Country
Living in Maine means understanding as much as possible about the things that came before us. There’s so much history that can be found throughout the state, which means there’s always an opportunity to learn. And it’s pretty lucky that a lot of our history is interesting. Just as great is that some of it can still be experienced today. This spot in New Gloucester is one of the best places to visit (when it’s safe!) to learn more about our state’s history.
Established in 1783, Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village was originally called “Thompson’s Pond Plantation." It was founded by a group of Shaker missionaries and today it’s the only active community in the world. Even more interesting is that the last two living members anywhere in the world are right here!
Just a few years later in 1794, the founding families became an officially recognized community. Next came the construction of a worship space. Creating the Meeting House allowed them to be recognized as an official community in 1794.
Back when they started the community was one of the smallest and poorest in the east. But soon it was thriving and today it’s still an important place for Shakers to live, work and pray.
While the community is much smaller now, the village still has 17 historic buildings dating back to the 1780s all the way through the 1950s. All of this exists on about 1,800 acres of farm area and forest.
The community lives by the Shaker’s Guiding Principle first shared by Shaker leader Mother Ann Lee about 230 years ago. Today they still live by the principle of "Put your hands to work, and give your hearts to God."
That might be one reason that most people are familiar with the Shakers through their traditional Shaker furniture. But there are plenty of other things they create. Their legacy includes achievements in everything from social reform to agriculture to technology and innovation.
The Shaker Village in Maine has a tree farm, apple orchard, vegetable gardens, herb garden, hay fields, pastures, a flock of sheep, and livestock. And when they open again after COVID, visitors can visit to experience the living history and heritage.
In addition to hearing about the Shaker history, visitors can also participate in craft workshops, concerts, educational programs, membership support groups, and even worship services on Sunday.
Make a plan to visit when they’re open and you’ll have the chance to understand a little bit more about both Shakers and Maine history.
The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village is a wonderful place to tour and see but, due to COVID, they’ll be closed through 2020. Even more reason to make your plans to visit them in 2021! Check out their website to learn more about what they offer. For now, you can check out their virtual Christmas fair, which will replace the one that’s usually held in person. If you have questions you can reach them on 207-926-4597.
Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
