Product Description

Issachar Bates (17581837) was a Revolutionary War veteran in rural upstate New York who, at the age of forty-three, abruptly turned from his family life to become a celibate Shaker. He immediately became instrumental in Shakerisms westward expansion, and his personal charisma, persuasive preaching, and musical talent helped stimulate the movements growth. Bates drew western converts in abundance, profoundly changing the character of Shakerism by increasing its geographic reach. He also helped shape the Shakers unique theology and hymnody through his many influential texts and songs.