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SHAKER VILLAGE IS SCIENTIFIC TREASURE

FOR AA & AWEB SET 2/19 EWM

CANTERBURY, N.H. - Canterbury Shaker Village has been designated as one of

"America's Scientific Treasures" by the American Chemical Society. There are

only 325 such sites recognized in the United States.

The designation is in recognition of the Canterbury Shakers' contribution to

scientific study and invention. The sect, established in 1792, were

responsible for significant contributions to naturopathic medicine, the

production of medicinal herbs, the invention of many naturopathic remedies,

for establishing the original seed packet industry, and for creating the first

arboretum in New Hampshire. One of their most popular products was syrup of

Sasarparilla.

The Shakers followed the teachings of Mother Ann Lee, a Christian originally

from England who established the reformist United Society of Believers in the

Eighteenth Century. The Shakers, whose name derived from their spontaneous

dances during worship, believed in "hands to work and hearts to God" and were

famously hard-working, inventive people, both male and female. Among other

Shaker inventions was the flat broom, the clothes pin, and the modern spinning

washing machine.

The village will open on April 4, for weekends only, and will begin tours,

demonstrations and family programs on May 1. For information, 603/783-9511.