Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, located near New Gloucester and Poland, Maine, is the last active Shaker community. The community was established during the peak of the Shaker movement in the United States, in either 1782, 1783, or 1793. This historical significance makes it a unique destination for those interested in the Shaker movement and its history.
The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village has been publicly accessible since 1931, when the Shaker Museum and Shaker Library were established. The village attracts up to 10,000 visitors annually, making it a popular destination for those interested in the Shaker movement, American history, or cultural heritage.
The museum at Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village is the largest repository of Shaker culture in Maine. It displays a wide range of items from the daily life of the Shakers, including furniture, woodenware, metalware, technical devices and tools, clothing and textiles, and medical items. With a total of about 13,000 exhibition items, the museum offers a comprehensive insight into the Shaker culture and lifestyle.
History & Anthropology Historic house Religion Profession & Craft
No exhibitions in Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum have been found.
Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum has 1 rating.
The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum in New Gloucester, United States, offers visitors an authentic look into the life and history of the Shaker community. This museum, set in the last active Shaker village in the world, provides a genuine and educational experience.
Visitors often praise the museum for its well-preserved buildings and artifacts that showcase the Shaker way of life. The guided tours are frequently mentioned as informative and engaging, offering insights into Shaker beliefs, craftsmanship, and daily routines. Many reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable staff who are passionate about sharing the Shaker history and culture.
The museum's location in a peaceful, rural setting adds to its appeal, creating an immersive atmosphere that helps transport visitors back in time. The gift shop, featuring handmade Shaker items, is also noted as a positive aspect of the visit.
However, some visitors mention that the museum might feel small or limited in scope compared to larger institutions. A few reviews suggest that the experience could be enhanced with more interactive exhibits or demonstrations of Shaker crafts.
Overall, the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum is well-regarded for its authenticity, educational value, and the unique opportunity it provides to learn about a lesser-known aspect of American history. While it may not offer the breadth of larger museums, it compensates with its focused and genuine representation of Shaker life.
This rating is based on the rating of this museum on several other platforms.
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