The Bee House (originally built in 1837) was a node of agricultural processing for the
Canterbury Shakers that shifted in response to the needs of the community over
generations. Historical records indicate it was first used as a drying house for apples
and then lumber. The building’s namesake is attributed to it being the headquarters of
the community’s beekeepers from 1865 to the early 20 th century. In 1940, it was moved
to its current location and connected to the Cow Barn, where it was used as a milk
cooling space.

It was one of only two buildings that survived the 1973 Cow Barn complex fire and was
restored in 1977. Recent preservation efforts replaced the shingled roof and sheathing
and provided a fresh coat of paint on the interior and exterior, among other necessary
improvements. These efforts will allow the Bee House to be used as an interpretive space for the first time in many years, an exciting prospect the museum welcomes in its mission to educate visitors about the Canterbury Shakers.

“First and foremost, Canterbury Shaker Village was a farming community,” said Director of Education and Interpretation Kyle Sandler. “The Bee House exhibition gives the Village a great opportunity to reengage and research the fascinating history of agriculture and the pivotal role it played in the community’s daily life.”

To celebrate, on Saturday, August 29 from 12-4 p.m., the Village invites friends and
families to visit the new exhibition and enjoy an afternoon of talks, tours, and demonstrations centered around bees and agriculture. Thanks to sponsorship provided by Grappone Automotive Group, the event, admissions and tours are free for the day.

Sanborn Mills Farm will have oxen teams on site for traditional farming demonstrations. The University of New Hampshire Extension will give talks on native plants and pollinators, and their Master Gardener and Resource Stewards will lead garden tours. McCormack’s Bee Farm will display an observation beehive and sell honey and hive products. Other activities include a children’s story time and crafts from Elkins Public Library and a printing experience from the Village’s print shop partner FLDWTRS Press.

Additional market vendors will include White Rock Farm, North Family Farm, Schrock Farm, Black Olive Pottery Studio, Kathie Fife, as well as additional produce available from Sanborn Mills Farm.

Hot Rod Grill and Patti’s Pies Pizza will be serving food, and Ice Cream Social made a special batch of honeycomb ice cream. Cathedral Ledge Distillery and Hermit Woods Winery will be on hand to sell their products, along with a beer garden serving alcohol to adults 21+ with proper identification.