Alfred Shaker Historic District

The Alfred Shaker Historic District encompasses numerous preserved buildings and extensive farmland along Shaker Hill Road, representing Maine's largest and oldest Shaker community that once supported hundreds of residents during its peak years.

Founded in 1793 after believers visited Mother Ann Lee in 1783, the community reached its zenith during the 1840s before declining due to economic challenges and competition from mass-produced goods, ultimately closing in 1931 when remaining members relocated to Sabbathday Lake.

The community practiced celibate communal living with strict gender equality and racial inclusiveness, creating furniture, textiles, and herbal medicines while following spiritual beliefs that emphasized simplicity, honesty, and humility reflected in their Federal-style architecture.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001, the site operates the Alfred Shaker Museum within a renovated carriage house, offering guided tours, educational programs, craft workshops, and special events to visitors interested in learning about Shaker history.

Joseph Brackett composed the famous song 'Simple Gifts' at this community, creating one of the most enduring legacies of Shaker culture that has been widely adopted in various musical contexts and continues to symbolize their values of humility and gratitude.

Location: Alfred

GPS coordinates: 43.49860,-70.71140

Latest update: July 25, 2025 22:30