Shakers oval boxes have become recognizable artifacts of Shaker life and work.  First made over two hundred years ago, these containers were made for community use and for sale to the “world’s people” until well into the 20^th century.  They were used to hold food stuffs in the pantry, buttons for the seamstress and tacks in the shop.  Graceful, well made and of widespread utility, they represent virtues of the Shaker order itself.

 We at the Home Shop are at the center of the revival of interest in these beautiful containers.  In the catalog, you will find all the pieces and parts needed by the trade, as  well   Sr. Tery, Br. Wayne, Sr. Frances, Br. Arnold & Sr. June   as instructional materials to get you started.  The class

                                                                                      schedule lists events here and around the country where participants can make a nest of five boxes in a day-and-a-half class.

As craftsmen everywhere and in every generation, we are beholden to those who have gone before in the trade, who have set the example for good workmanship.  It was at the Shaker community at Sabbathday Lake , Maine,  that Br. Delmer Wilson made boxes and carriers in large numbers beginning in 1896.  It was there that John Wilson was invited to teach box making in 1985 as part of the modern box making revival.  It is there that a dedicated group of individuals (assembled for this portrait on April 8, 2002) live out the Shaker ideals begun by Mother Ann in this country in 1774.  To them we are indebted.  You may direct inquiry about the community to www.maineshakers.com.  You are invited to visit and join Sunday worship when your travels point in that direction.

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