SS64 - An Exploration of Ann Lee and the Shakers
SCURS Disciplines
Interdisciplinary Studies
Document Type
General Poster
Invited Presentation Choice
Service-Learning — Oral
Abstract
This paper investigates the core principles that exists within the United Society of Believers in Christs Second Appearing (Shakers) in the context of the traditional social and religious expectations in the United States during the 1800’s. The aim of this study was to find where the core worship differences and religious origins stem from while also exploring Ann Lees life and how her experiences changed and influenced the group. Previous research has shown the Shakers as a small group who were known for their ecstatic worship style which set them apart from traditional Christian worship. While the information concerning that matter is vital to understanding the Shakers, it is crucial that for an accurate perception there must be more research done on their creed. The question that molded this paper was of the context behind the adoption and creation of the Shakers' unique lifestyle they followed apart from the ecstatic physicality in their worship. Analyzing primary sources, Shaker hymns and writings, and some of the more heavily referenced biblical passages in Shaker works were the main processes used to gather information. These findings show that the Shakers were not just a Christian sect, but that they also served as a challenge to norms surrounding labor, living, equality, and faith in the United States during the 1800’s. The Shakers unwavering commitment to their belief of spiritual purity and rejection of the common concept of a patriarchal social structure allowed their success in forming a society led by egalitarian principles. Understanding the significance of the Shakers allows better insight into how religious ideals and practices can be converted into innovative social structures and a view into how those structures looked in action during a time of strict societal customs.
Keywords
Shaker Manuscript, Religious communalism, Early American Religion, Mother Ann Lee
Start Date
10-4-2026 9:30 AM
Location
University Readiness Center Greatroom
End Date
10-4-2026 11:30 AM
SS64 - An Exploration of Ann Lee and the Shakers
University Readiness Center Greatroom
This paper investigates the core principles that exists within the United Society of Believers in Christs Second Appearing (Shakers) in the context of the traditional social and religious expectations in the United States during the 1800’s. The aim of this study was to find where the core worship differences and religious origins stem from while also exploring Ann Lees life and how her experiences changed and influenced the group. Previous research has shown the Shakers as a small group who were known for their ecstatic worship style which set them apart from traditional Christian worship. While the information concerning that matter is vital to understanding the Shakers, it is crucial that for an accurate perception there must be more research done on their creed. The question that molded this paper was of the context behind the adoption and creation of the Shakers' unique lifestyle they followed apart from the ecstatic physicality in their worship. Analyzing primary sources, Shaker hymns and writings, and some of the more heavily referenced biblical passages in Shaker works were the main processes used to gather information. These findings show that the Shakers were not just a Christian sect, but that they also served as a challenge to norms surrounding labor, living, equality, and faith in the United States during the 1800’s. The Shakers unwavering commitment to their belief of spiritual purity and rejection of the common concept of a patriarchal social structure allowed their success in forming a society led by egalitarian principles. Understanding the significance of the Shakers allows better insight into how religious ideals and practices can be converted into innovative social structures and a view into how those structures looked in action during a time of strict societal customs.