Over the years, the original Shaker community in New York
expanded to 24 communities scattered among eight states in the
eastern United States. Many people were attracted to their peaceful
ways and clean, crime-free villages. Eventually the Shakers paid a price
for their celibacy, however, because without children to carry on their
traditions and beliefs, their numbers eventually dwindled to a very few.
Today, their villages are museums and their handicrafts are items for
collectors. Nevertheless, the Shakers will not be forgotten. Their search
for a perfect existence where everyone was equal and lived in harmony
is recorded in American history. The Shakers will be remembered for
their many fine products and inventions and for the contribution they
made to society.