Founded in 1947, the Shaker Historical Society collects, preserves, and interprets the history of Shaker Heights to inspire curiosity and foster engagement between diverse communities and the people, events, and stories that shape local history.
2024 Annual Fund Campaign
Be a champion of local history! Support the Shaker Historical Society by making a tax-deductible donation to our 2024 Annual Fund campaign. Your gift helps us bring history to life through classroom outreach, presentations, research assistance, guided tours, community events, and more. Together, we can ensure our unique programs inspire and educate people of all ages.
Every contribution makes a difference—thank you for helping us preserve and share our community's stories!
Upcoming Programs & Events
Winter Melodies
December 14 | 2-4pm | Shaker Historical Society
We invite the community to enjoy winter melodies from the talented Nightingale Women’s A Cappella group! Stop by the Shaker Historical Society on Saturday, December 14 between 2-4pm for outdoor carols and hot chocolate, and warm up inside with holiday shopping in our gift shop with local partner vendors Cleveland Rocks and Beads, Nonlinear Nomad, Sweet Siren Bakery, and more!
This is a donation-based event with a suggested donation of $5 per person. The parking lot behind the museum will be closed, but parking is available along South Park Boulevard. If you require handicap parking or accommodations, please contact education@shakerhistory.org before Friday, December 13 so we can ensure a smooth visit!
Archives Open House
December 18 | 6-7pm | Shaker Historical Society
You are cordially invited to our Archives Open House to celebrate the completion of Phase I of our Photograph Archives project! Makialani Kanewa-Mariano, our former Archives Intern and current Education and Outreach Manager, will share information about the project and some of her favorite photographs discovered along the way.
We look forward to sharing this exciting milestone with you during our last public event of 2024! This event is offered free of charge, although we graciously welcome any donations to support future initiatives like this one at the museum.
*Please note that the Elizabeth Nord Library and Archives are located on the second floor of the museum, and there is no lift or elevator to reach the second floor.
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This project was made possible through an award from the Ohio Historical Records Advisory Board (OHRAB) through funding from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC), National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and through the generous financial support of SHS member John Barber.
Learn more on our Upcoming Events page!
Current & Upcoming Exhibits
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 — December 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.