Shirley Shaker Village

Shirley Shaker Village is a historic district in Shirley, Massachusetts, founded by a religious community and now containing 13 surviving structures from the original 26. The remaining buildings display yellow and white wooden siding alongside brick construction dating to the 1840s, representing the architectural continuity of the settlement.

The village was established in 1793 after four benefactors donated land, and it grew into a community of about 150 members divided into three organized family groups. The settlement lasted until 1908, shaping over a century of religious and economic life in the area.

The community lived according to principles of simplicity and shared purpose, with each member occupying a modest private room containing only essential furniture like beds, chairs, and heating stoves. This style of living reflected their broader values about what mattered most in daily life and how people should relate to each other.

Visitors can explore the accessible areas on scheduled tours coordinated by the Shirley Historical Society. It is important to plan ahead since the Massachusetts Correctional Institution occupies a large portion of the property and public access is limited to designated areas.

The community was known for commercial products, particularly applesauce that sold throughout the region, alongside handcrafted brooms, mops, and herbal goods. These economic activities made the village a recognized name in local commerce beyond its religious reputation.

Location: Massachusetts

GPS coordinates: 42.52639,-71.65167

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:43