In order of the dances of love, hunting, and war come those used as exorcism, rather, for the purpose of warding off death, sickness, or sorcery. The votaries of such rites, similar in that respect to the Shakers of the Lebanon or to the followers of the Koran who whirl round until their movements graduate into frenzy. Foaming at the mouth, the dancers deem themselves inspired and gifted with powers of prophecy, of curing disease, or of dismissing evil spirits.

   The Shaker movement was started by the "Blessed Mother Anne" Lee (1736-1784) who was formerly a Quaker.

Theirs was originally a celibate sect and worship included many lively songs and dancing of praise to God. Originally of England, they were severely persecuted and found refuge in the United States, mainly New York (Lee settled in Albany.) Because the Shakers were communal and celibate, relying on converts to take up the religion, they are pretty much extinct (a few are left.)

   A century ago, nearly 6000 Shaker brothers and sisters lived together in nineteen communities scattered from Maine to Kentucky. Over the years, the Shakers created many thousands of Songs, Anthems and Hymns. The first Shaker song was written by Father James Whittaker in 1786 entitled "In Yonder Valley." Early dances to these songs were the "Square Order Shuffle" and the "Quick Step Manner". The most famous Shaker dance song was "Simple Gifts" by Elder Joseph Brackett .

   The Shakers who had definite dance patterns as a part of their worship, which came at will during their emotion in worship on obtaining

"the gift" would jerk, shake, wave arms and dance. The Shakers of the Millennium Church came to the United States from England in 1774, duringthe early years of the Revolutionary War (1775-1783.)

The Square-Order Shuffle: see bottom of page.

Other Related Dances ...

Dancers, Choreographers etc.

Political

Books, Magazine Articles on the dance...

Musicians

Singers

Poets / Writers

Links

Misc. Research Words that may be related ... to help your searches