A revelation experienced by Shaker leader Ann…
August 1774 CE
A revelation experienced by Shaker leader Ann Lee in 1774 leads her to take a select band to America.
She is accompanied by her husband, who soon afterwards deserts her.
Also following her to America are her brother, William Lee (1740–1784); Nancy Lee, her niece; James Whittaker (1751–1787), who had been brought up by Mother Ann and is probably related to her; John Hocknell (1723–1799), who provides the funds for the trip; his son, Richard; James Shepherd, and Mary Partington.
Mother Ann and her converts arrive on August 6, 1774, in New York City, where they will stay for nearly five years.