Who We Are
Hancock Shaker Village is a landmark destination of 750 acres, 20 historic Shaker buildings, and over 22,000 Shaker artifacts. On the National Historic Register, it is the most comprehensively interpreted Shaker site in the world, and the oldest working farm in the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts.
What We Do
The mission of Hancock Shaker Village is to bring the Shaker story to life and preserve it for future generations; to collect and preserve the property and artifacts that demonstrate the history, industry, life, and traditions of the Shakers and their achievements/contributions to the American way of life; to exhibit the collections of Shaker buildings, furnishings, libraries, and objects of art; to enable and conduct studies and research into Shaker and American community history; and to reflect on living a principled life and the values the Shakers embraced: integrity, racial and gender equality, pacifism, community, sustainability, responsible land stewardship, innovation, and simplicity. Through multifaceted programming in art, music, food and thought, we share the Shaker story, and strive to ignite curiosity, expand imaginations, and inspire generations.
The library and archives are looking for help with a number of projects, from shelving materials to scanning and creating inventories (in person). Because the museum closes to the public through the winter, many of our volunteer needs kick in during the spring.
While there are a wide range of jobs volunteers do at HSV, we are always interested in those who can help in the gardens, with special events, and as crafters and interpreters interacting with our museum visitors.