I was a member of the Brothers of Christian Instruction for six years (1964-1970) and spent four of them in Alfred, Maine, a former Shaker Community. The site still has at least six Shaker built buildings, all modified to a lesser or greater degree. I lived in two of them, and much of the structure was original. One of my tasks was to maintain the Shaker cemetery. The site was well chosen, because it is the most peaceful place on the whole property. I have had an interest in all things Shaker since then.
Last summer, my family spent a week in Southern Maine and we spent a day at Alfred. It was just as peaceful as I remembered it. For those interested, one of the shops in the town of Alfred has a small book of photographs with half of it devoted to the Shaker community and the Buildings.
Anyone wishing to visit the site should know that the Brothers of Christian Instruction still privately own the property and do not maintain it as a museum. Please enjoy the place but also respect the Brothers' privacy.
I have taken up woodworking and enjoy emulating the clean, simple and elegant style of the Shaker designs. I spent a good deal of time at Delaware Art Museum while the traveling display of Shaker furniture and crafts was there - WOW what an inspiration.
If anyone wants to know more about Alfred, or if any former FIC's (Brothers) want to reminisce, feel free to contact me.
Jim Maloney
email: maloney@delanet.com
Return to Top|Table of Contents|Shaker Articles|Reminiscences|