Thanksgiving Dessert-a-thon

September 28 - November 14, 2024 | SOLD OUT

Make your Thanksgiving even sweeter with the Shaker Historical Society's first-ever Thanksgiving Dessert-a-thon! This special fundraiser is designed to take the stress out of your holiday preparations while supporting a good cause. Choose from a mouthwatering selection of desserts, including classic apple pies, indulgent pecan pie brownies, and festive pumpkin cakes.

Your sweet treats will be delivered* to your doorstep during the week of Thanksgiving, giving you more time to focus on celebrating with your loved ones. Best of all, every purchase helps fund our fall programming, allowing us to continue offering engaging and educational events at the Shaker Historical Society.

*Free delivery is available to residents of Shaker Heights and those within a 2-mile radius of the Shaker Historical Society. For those outside this area, please contact us at info@shakerhistory.org to arrange for pick-up or inquire about delivery options before placing your order.

'Tis the gift to be simple: Aaron Copland Meets the Shakers in Shaker Heights

November 7, 2024 | 7:00-8:30pm | Zoom | REGISTRATION REQUIRED

Shaker leader Ann Lee and her followers arrived in the United States in 1774 and settled in Watervliet, New York near Albany. Two centuries later, composer Aaron Copland, who incorporated the Shaker tune “Simple Gifts” in his award-winning 1944 ballet score for Appalachian Spring, visited Cleveland for a weeklong celebration of his music sponsored by the Cleveland Orchestra. During this visit, Copland was invited by Roger Lee Hall to meet Maine Shakers who were presenting a workshop for Shaker Heights teachers. This would be the only meeting between Copland and the Shakers.

Join the Shaker Historical Society, Shaker Heights Public Library, and Roger Lee Hall to explore the origins of “Simple Gifts,” its adaptations by folk artists like Judy Collins and its influence on Sydney Carter’s song “Lord of the Dance.” Hall will also discuss Aaron Copland’s connection with Shaker music and his historic meeting with the Sabbathday Lake Shakers. This is a free virtual event, but registration is required at bit.ly/coplandshakers

Veterans Day Cemetery Tour

November 9, 2024 | 11am-12:30pm | 3451 Lee Road | REGISTRATION REQUIRED

**This event has reached capacity. Email education@shakerhistory.org with your first and last name(s) to be added to the waitlist.**

Did you know Warrensville West Cemetery is the final resting place of veterans from five wars? Join the Shaker Historical Society, Shaker Heights Public Library, and City of Shaker Heights on Saturday, November 9 at 11:00am for a cemetery tour to hear the stories of local veterans and to learn more about the Warrensville West Cemetery Historic Preservation Master Plan.

The tour will be held at Warrensville West Cemetery, 3451 Lee Road, Shaker Heights. All participants must register separately at bit.ly/WWC-tour-2024. Parking is available in the Heinen's parking lot or across the street at the library. Sturdy footwear is encouraged due to the uneven terrain. This is a rain or shine event that will only be cancelled in the event of extreme weather.

Trees and Fluffy Things — September 28, 2024 - February 16, 2025 

Trees and Fluffy Things by Shaker Heights artist Ewuresi Archer is a vibrant celebration of the historical trees in Shaker Heights, highlighting the majestic beauty of both native species and those that were thoughtfully introduced over time. Each piece pays homage to the unique stories these trees hold, reflecting the deep-rooted history of the area. Adding a playful twist, every painting features the delightful presence of chickens, bringing a touch of whimsy and joy to the exhibition, symbolizing the harmony between nature and the creatures that call it home.

May Fortune Be Kind and Give Us Trees: The Arboreal History of Shaker Heights — November 2024* - February 2025 

For centuries, trees have played an integral role in the development of community in Shaker Heights. Picturesque tree-lined streets are a beloved hallmark of this garden-style suburb, but the use and impact of trees extend far beyond aesthetics. May Fortune Be Kind and Give Us Trees explores the intertwined history of nature and community in Shaker Heights. From the North Union Shakers' Holy Grove to the city's Garden City inspiration to its present-day Tree City designation, the community's relationship with trees reflects a deep-rooted and enduring connection to the landscape.

This exhibition is made possible with support from Bartlett Tree Experts and residents of Cuyahoga County through a public grant from Cuyahoga Arts & Culture.

*Opening date will be announced soon.