Then&Now
Comparing Historical and Present-Day Photographs
See how the settlement changed over time
The following interactive images combine two images with similar viewing position of the Church Family. On the left, a historical moment during the 1920s or circa 1871, and on the right a contemporary view from a similar point of view. The sets of photographs allow understanding the significant changes that took place at the Church Family after the demolition of several structures.
Great Gate
A view of the Shaker buildings from the "Great Gate" looking North, towards the inner gate and courtyard. Most buildings were demolished after the Shakers left the Church Family. The only surviving structures are the 1822 Brethren’s Workshop, 1825 Ministry Workshop and the 1848 Meeting House. Historical photo circa 1871.
Meeting Houses
Looking South from the inner courtyard. The focus of the photo is on the 1791 Meeting House and the 1848 Meeting House. The 1830 Trustee's Office can be seen on the background. Historical photo from the 1920s.
Inner Courtyard
Looking North towards the courtyard. The 1848 Meeting House is on the right and the 1816 Dwelling/Bell House is on the left. Historical photo circa 1871.
Brethrens' Workshop
A view of the Brethrens' Workshop. The historical image shows the building with its 1822 configuration. A group of Shakers pose in front of the building and in a cart. Elder Josiah Barker can be seen sitting in the front row on the left.
Inner Gate
A group of Shakers pose outside the inner gate. The 1822 Brethren’s Workshop can be seen on the left, the 1848 Meeting House can be seen on the right and the 1828 Ministry Workshop on the far right. The historical photo was taken in 1868 by photographer William Irving of Troy, NY.
Inner Courtyard
Looking North towards the inner courtyard. The historical view shows the 1783 Dwelling House, the 1838 Stone Shop, and the 1816 Dwelling House on the right. These buildings were demolished after the Shakers left the Church Family. Historical photo from the 1920s.
Shed & Privy
The historical image shows the 1848 Meeting House on the left. On the background, a demolished group of structures including the Meeting House privy and the 1849 Shed. Historical photo from the 1920s.
View from West
A view from the west looking towards the courtyard, showing the 1783 Dwelling House on the left and the 1848 Meeting House on the right. Historical photo from the 1920s.