What Are Shaker Boxes?

The Shakers were a religious sect who left England in 1774 to seek freedom in America. They are best known for building furniture that was clean-lined and unadorned. Shaker boxes are one of the most recognizable and sought-after Shaker designs.

Features

Traditional Shaker boxes are oval shaped and come in different sizes, according to the Shaker numbering system. The smallest box is No. 11, and the largest is No. 1. They have a natural wood finish or are painted red, blue, green or yellow.

Construction

The boxes and lids were formed from one piece of wood, soaked in hot water, bent around an oval form and held together with a type of joint called swallow tails -- because their shape resembles that of a bird's tail. The swallow tails were secured with copper tacks.

Function

The Shakers used the boxes in nearly all aspect of their lives, storing everything from flour to quilting supplies in them.

Significance

The Shakers sold their furniture, including the iconic boxes, to help support their communities. Today, authentic Shaker-made boxes are expensive and difficult to find.

Availability

Authentic Shaker boxes can be found in antique stores or purchased from collectors. Modern versions, which are mostly mass produced, can be found online, at craft shows and at shops that specialize in Shaker furniture.

References

• National Park Service: The Shakers
• Shakerworkshops.com: Shaker Oval Boxes

Resources

• Shakerovalbox.com: Building Shaker Oval Boxes