Foryears the author of this book has been a devoted student of the history beliefs and ways of The United Society of Believers in Christs Second Appearing better known as the Shakers Out of his extensive research into manuscripts and primary sources and his conversations with friends in presentday Shaker communities has come a warm illuminating history the most thorough ever written on these pious humble people and the distinct impression they made on American lifeThe book opens with an introductory assessment of the Shaker contribution to the history of American social experimentation as seen from the modern point of view There follows the often amazing story of Ann Lee and the origins of the movement in eighteenthcentury England its emigration to New England the early Shaker experiments in communism and the expansion to the American West The author then pauses to examine in detail the ideology behind the Shaker dedication to physical labor Shaker industry and design including a