Guided hikes to reenact annual pilgrimage at Hancock Shaker Village.
Hikers and history buffs will enjoy Hancock Shaker Village’s new outdoor program. New life comes to a long-standing tradition when Christian Goodwillie, curator at Hancock Shaker Village, leads a series of hikes up Mount Sinai (also commonly known as Shaker Mountain), the holy mountain at the Village. Hikes are planned for July 21, August 3, 4, 24 and 25. Each hike will begin at 9:30 AM and conclude with a communal lunch.
The guided hikes will explore one of the most remarkable episodes in the history of the Berkshires. In 1842 each Shaker community was directed to consecrate a plot of land for a twice annual pilgrimage called the “feast of the Passover.” Typically these “feast grounds” were located on the highest parcel of land owned by each village. The Hancock Shakers dubbed their holy mountain Mount Sinai and met there each spring and fall beginning in 1843.
The walk began in the meeting room of the Shakers’ 1830 Brick Dwelling, traveled through the site of the North Family, paused at a lovely vinca green and walnut grove, and finally reached the “sacred lot” at the center of which stood the “fountain stone.” This remarkable stone, crafted of white marble and lettered with the revealed word of God, stood nearly six feet tall. This entire day long spiritual journey was punctuated by inspired testimonies of departed spirits revealed through Shaker instruments, as well as songs and dances sacred to the occasion.
Today much of this sacred landscape remains intact. Hikers will hear songs and participate in readings from Shaker and non-Shaker descriptions of these worship activities.
The three-hour hike will conclude at the Village Café for a Shaker-inspired lunch. The cost, which includes lunch, the program and trail maps, is $25 for Hancock Shaker Village Members and $32 for Non-Members. To register, please contact Hancock Shaker Village at (800) 817-1137 ext. 213. Admission to the Village grounds is included, with ample time in the afternoon to explore the buildings, grounds and gardens. Pre-registration is required.
About Hancock Shaker Village
Hancock Shaker Village, in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, is situated on 1,200 acres of farm, field and woodland. The fully restored Village includes 20 buildings, 22,000 examples of Shaker furniture, crafts, tools and clothes, as well as heritage farm animals and spectacular gardens. Tours, craft and cooking demonstrations, lectures, and a variety of activities for children and families appropriate to every season are available, as well as a Cafe and Museum Store. Open year-round. Hancock Shaker Village is accredited by the American Association of Museums and is supported in part by grants from The Massachusetts Cultural Council and Institute of Museum and Library Services. For more information, call (800) 817-1137.