Richard McNemar: Frontier Heretic and Shaker Apostle

Richard McNemar (1770–1839) was a Presbyterian minister who became the father of Shaker literature after converting to Shakerism during the Kentucky Revival. He founded Shaker communities in the Midwest and was the first Shaker published author and composer of Shaker hymns. Christian Goodwillie's biography captures the complexity of McNemar's life and his enduring legacy in American religious history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 540 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2023
Publisher: Indiana University Press

Richard McNemar, a significant and intricate figure in nineteenth-century American religious history, is widely regarded as the father of Shaker literature. His life was a remarkable journey filled with twists and turns that profoundly impacted American religions during the early 19th century. Born in 1770, McNemar began his religious career as a Presbyterian minister in the Midwest. However, during the Kentucky Revival, he embraced a radically different evangelical free will approach, which shaped the practices and preaching of his congregation. A central aspect of his New Light church in Ohio was the spontaneous physical movement and fervent exhortations that characterized his sermons.

McNemar's journey took an unexpected turn when Shaker missionaries arrived in the region. Impressed by their teachings, he converted and quickly emerged as a prominent figure in the expansion and promotion of Shakerism. He founded Shaker communities in the Midwest, becoming the first Shaker published author and the most prolific composer of Shaker hymns.

McNemar's life, divided between two opposing religious traditions—the evangelical movement attracting tens of thousands and Shakerism, which drew only hundreds to its villages—presented a daunting challenge for any biographer. Christian Goodwillie's exceptional expertise in accessing archival records surrounding McNemar and the Shakers enables him to present McNemar's story in a manner that fully captures the complexity of the man and the profound impact of his enduring legacy in American religious history.

Richard McNemar's life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to his faith and his ability to navigate the complexities of religious change. His legacy continues to inspire and influence religious communities to this day, reminding us of the power of personal transformation and the enduring significance of religious movements in shaping American society.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253065056