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Christian Goodwillie

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Director and Curator of Special Collections and Archives, Hamilton College

In the Shakers’ early years, dance was one of the most distinct aspects of the Christian group’s worship. Bettmann via Getty Images

December 22, 2025

The celibate, dancing Shakers were once seen as a threat to society – 250 years later, they’re part of the sound of America

Christian Goodwillie, Hamilton College

‘The Testament of Ann Lee,’ Mona Fastvold’s 2025 film, depicts part of the long history of Shaker worship.

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Location: Clinton, New York, U.S.
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Joined September 22, 2025