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Based on original research in records long thought lost, Quaker Nantucket explores the spectacular growth of Quakerism on the Island and its equally astonishing decline amidst the collapse of the whaling industry a century later. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Quaker Nantucket: The Religious Community Behind the Whaling Empire
The authors provide detailed information about the rise and fall of Nantucket's Quaker community and its whaling industry.If your Nantucket ancestors include family names like Macy, Starbuck, Coffin, Bunker, etc., you'll gain additional persective on the interconnections between family, religion, and whaling, the "splintering" of the Quaker community, and some reasons for migration off island.

An informative book written in a pleasing way
I am an avid reader of historical texts. I am very interested in the history of America and am always hungry for more knowledge. I recently took up in interest in discovering more about the Quakers. I had almost given upafter reading the endless selection of rather boring texts, leaving meeither sleeping or wanting to. Then, I found Quaker Nantucket. From thisbook, I have learned volumes of information, and had a good time doing it.This book is interesting, and begins every chapter with an exciting sectionof the ongoing saga. I enjoyed myself, and hope to have the chance tocongratulate Mr. Gow and Mr. Leach myself.

You never thought a book could be so informative, yet fun.
This is an amazing book. The author takes you into the life or Quakerism. You learn how it all began with George Fox, and how in ended. Also, you learn about how the whaling industry affected Quakers on the island onNantucket. This is a must read. ... Read more

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A detailed descriiption of Philadelphia Quaker's work with the Allegany Senecas from 1795 to 1960. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Philadelphia Quaker's work with the seneca Indians.
"This book is a very, very important work on Seneca history.The Quaker influence changed the lives of the Seneca people; it is still very much felt today.I'm glad Lois Barton has done this." DuWayne"Duce" Bowen, Seneca author, Contemporary Seneca Stories of theSupernatural. ... Read more

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Resurrected from obscurity
Whether you are a quilter, a student of quilting history or not (I am not), you should find this account of a 19th Century Friendship Quilt fascinating.When the author discovers a quilt practically hidden in a dark corner of an antique shop she immediately realizes she has found something unique.But when she gets it home she begins an "archeological dig" worthy of a Leakey or a Johanson.Theamount of research and scholarship was immense for this little volume and it's written in a no nonsense,"just the facts Ma'am" style that is very easy to read for one not familiar with the subject.

The most remarkable aspect of the detective work achieved was authenticating the quilt's recipient.The "owner" of the quilt may seem obviousat the outset, but the actual recipient is not named on the quilt.It was first necessary for Ms. Chenoweth to trace the genealogy and history all the 25 families named on the quilt. With the help of historical societies and genealogists from 3 states she takes us on a complex "fabric forensic" ride. She provides not only family trees but documents the property ownership, census records and even visits the homes where some of these families lived.All of this was necessary before she could confirm the owner of the quilt to be Philena Cooper Hambleton.

The author tells me she is writing a second book that will provide more extensive background and history of the families involved.There was a great deal of information on the Abolitionist Movement in which many of these Quaker families were involved that could not be included in the first volume.Some of these individuals suffered greatly from their anti-slavery activities and their descendants should benefit from this research.

In any case, Ms. Chenoweth has resurrected a quilt from near obscurity and uncovered a fascinating history as a result.

Buy the book.Enjoy it.I did. ... Read more

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An in-depth narrative about a young soldier from Clearfield, PA who enlisted in the 149th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry in 1862. Though a Quaker who was committed to pacifism, John F. Irwin also deeply opposed slavery and was hence committed to abolitionism. His abolitionism won out, and he served in the Army of the Potomac until the end in 1865. Three things defined the Civil War as a modern war: 1) the extensive use of railroads; 2) newspapers were represented on the battlefield by reporters, artists, and photographers, and 3) the telegraph system which made nearly instant communication available for the newspapers. Because of this availability of news from the front, a disappointing refrain in his letters home was "...but I don't need to go into details as you read all this in the newspapers." The 149th PVI regiment fought in all the major battles of the Army of the Potomac, battles such a Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, Cold Harbor, the siege of Richmond-Petersburg. Toward the end they were sent to Elmira, NY to oversee the Rebel prison camp there and to escort new draftees to their assignments. John F. was eventually mustered out and discharged in July 1865. ... Read more

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Stepping back in history to find the present
"He never wavered in his conviction that the war had a righteous goal, that of overcoming slavery."

This is John (Jack) Irwin's second delve into the genre of nonfiction/military.The first was Another River, Another Town: a Teenage Tank Gunner Comes of Age in Combat.In A Quaker Soldier in the Civil War, Irwin draws from letters preserved in his own family.

A Quaker soldier is paradoxical, as probable as the reverent atheist or the selfless politician.This is exactly why Jack is the best person to tell readers the story.As a former professor of philosophy, he is fearless in tackling a contradiction.

From the preface:

"He had to choose between two Quaker principles: pacifism and the opposition to slavery in any form.And his choice, once he made it, was irrevocable.He never wavered in his conviction that the war had a righteous goal, that of overcoming slavery.Yet, his letters hint of no malice toward his enemy."

Lt. John F. Irwin was a prolific letter writer and offers his family (and us today) the soldier's insight.Not much changes.The food on the battlefield is horrible, and troops are forever tormented by rumors.
... Read more

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Presents the diary of the sixteen-year-old daughter of a prominent Quaker family who moved with her family from British-occupied Philadelphia for the safety of the countryside during the Revolutionary War. Includes sidebars, activities, and a timeline related to this era. ... Read more

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Using illustrations from his own life, Robert Smith teaches us how Quakerism can help us lead simpler, more meaningful and more useful lives. ... Read more

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Professor Nevaskar explores two vastly different cultures--the Quakers of America and the Jains of India--to show how non-economic factors affect the development of economic systems. ... Read more

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From essays about the Quaker Christian experience and the "mystery at the core of all being" to a murder mystery by Irene Allen, this collection presents some of the best of contemporary Quaker nonfiction and fiction writing, with a brief biography of each author. Among these popular 20th- and 21st-century writers are names familiar to readers of mainstream Christianity, including Thomas Kelly, Jessamyn West, James Michener, Daisy Newman, Jan de Hartog, and Scott Russell Sanders. These adept essays and works of fiction reflect the true scope of spiritual experience, offering essays and fiction that range from tender, thought-provoking, and challenging to humorous, dramatic, and mysterious. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Will whet ones interest in the Quakers
The chapter on The Dialogue Of Prayer And Action is what made me love this book.Especially how Douglas V. Steere writes that the piece shows the ecumenical nature of Quakerism, believing that God's truth is revealed where God chooses to be revealed.And how its near impossible to have a serious prayer life without actions.That one would have to ask, whats the purpose of prayer if not to ask that one be changed, for the better.

Am always intrigued when I encounter someone who doesn't know what a Quaker is, aside from the occasional mention of the old man on the oatmeal box.This books will whet ones interest in learning more of the Quakers and the Friends, and their rich literature and history here in the states and abroad.

Splendid Anthology
Generally speaking, anthologies promise more than they can deliver.They are like "greatest hits" albums, that often don't contain an artist's best songs.This book, however, captures the width and breadth of Quaker literature.Just as the Catholic tradition has wonderful liturgy (at its best) and Baptists contribute moving gospel hymns, the Quakers have a literary profile second to none.Editor Brent Bill captures the excellence of Quaker literature with a wide variety of authors.The pieces included are diverse, sometimes funny, often moving.And Bill provides introductions that are clear, precise and organized to highlight what the reader should notice in the works.Literature teachers should include this volume in their curriculums.Faith communities should pick this one up and read, discuss, and enjoy.The book is a delight.

A Quaker Reader Is Grateful for this Quaker Reader.
In Spirit and Imagination, Brent Bill assembles a wide variety of contemporary Quaker writing, and does so superbly.Though his selections cover the gamut, from fiction to non-fiction, each convey God's active and gracious presence in our world.What a hopeful, helpful book.

what you didn't know about Quaker's
Imagination & Spirit is a great read and a wonderful education. I thought that I knew something about Quakerism and the Society of Friends. After reading Imagination & Spirit I have discovered that what I knew was only the surface of the wonderful traditions, practice and customs of Quakers.

Do not get the impression that this is a textbook on Quaker traditions; it is far from that. The educational component is presented stealthily, through Bill's accomplished selection of writings and his wonderful introductions to each author and each story. The book includes selections from a wide historical and style range of Quaker authors including D. Elton Trueblood, Jessamyn West, James A. Michener, Scott Russell Sanders, and Philip Gulley. The selections are marvelous, but it is Bill's introductions and explanations that really make this book shine.

Before each selection Bill gives a brief biography of the author with emphasis on his or her relationship to Quaker tradition. He also sets up each piece with its relevance to some aspect of Quaker life, such as wrestling with the issue of music or the particularities of a Quaker wedding. I came away from each piece feeling like a masterful teacher had just hoodwinked me into learning something about Quakers. Congratulations to Brent Bill for masterfully weaving together a collection of literature from the prolific Quaker tradition.

Quiet Presence
This book is a perfect gift for anyone who loves good writing and memorable stories.The diversity of authors insures there is "something for everyone" here.The common thread, however, are essays and stories that celebrate the human spirit and call all of us to deeper reflection about our creative selves. ... Read more

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A young Quaker explains the beliefs and practices of this religion. ... Read more

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A Brief Account of the Rise and Progress of the People Called Quakers is presented here in a high quality paperback edition. This popular classic work by William Penn is in the English language. If you enjoy the works of William Penn then we highly recommend this publication for your book collection. ... Read more

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"An examination centered on the commercial world ofVictorian Britain, of the tiny denomination that rose to immensewealth and respectability once its members abandoned the noisyprophetic radicalism of their 17th-century founders. It gives adue sense of the ramifications of Quaker money and the impact ofQuaker morals." The New York Times Book Review December 6, 1998Amazon.com Review
Unless you happen to be a Quaker, most of your impressions ofthis particular sect probably come from books such as FriendlyPersuasion--maybe even right off the side of a box ofquick-cooking oats. Nowhere in the popular conception of these soberlyclad, peaceable individuals who quaintly address each other as"thou" and "thee" is there a place for eitherreligious zealotry or great wealth. And yet, at one time or another intheir history, the Quakers have known both. In The Quakers,historian James Walvin concentrates on the sect's prodigious wealthand how they acquired it.

Walvin suggests that, having bannedmusic, art, dancing, and just about every other form of entertainment,the Quakers had both the time and the discipline to concentrate onbusiness. A combination of individual self-abnegation and awell-connected worldwide community of fellow believers helped createsuch successful institutions as Barclays Bank, Lloyds of London, andCadbury. At the same time the Quakers were amassing great fortunes,they were committed to worthy social causes as well, chiefly theabolition of slavery. Walvin's study of the culture and contradictionsof 19th-century Quakerism provides insight into a little-known side ofthis religion. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A good read
I enjoyed this book. I was researching the Quakers in regard to socially responsible investing (SRI), their ancient stance against slavery often being quoted as an illustration. The author does a good job of tracing the Quaker movement from its origins through its evolutional period and ends just before the modern era. It was entertaining, though I only gleaned a bit about their investing habits. Essentially, they were excellent businessmen, hard workers, and charitable to the greatest extent. They put their money where their morals were, very impressive compared to today's businessmen. However, though they are highly praised by SRI, I doubt they would return the praise to today's SRI movement. The Quakers were more akin to today's Biblically Responsible Investing (BRI) movement, an offshoot from SRI. Today's slavery issue is abortion, which SRI ignores completely.
A good read for anyone interested in English / American history or responsible investing.

Fascinating History
Quakers influence in the English speaking world has been far greater than their numbers would indicate.This book was a fascinating read by an author who is not a Quaker himself.He became interested in Quakers (Society of Friends) through his research into the anti-slavery movement.But Friends have also had an immense impact on the world of commerce.We, in England and the U.S.A. don't barter/bargain because of the Quaker thoughts on fair-trade.

If you like history, you will enjoy this book. ... Read more

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The Little Quaker - or, the Triumph of Virtue. A Tale for the Instruction of Youth is presented here in a high quality paperback edition. This popular classic work by Susanna Moodie is in the English language. If you enjoy the works of Susanna Moodie then we highly recommend this publication for your book collection. ... Read more

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This title has fewer than 24 printed text pages. Marriage Enrichment Retreats - Story of a Quaker Project is presented here in a high quality paperback edition. This popular classic work by D. R. (David Robert) Mace is in the English language. If you enjoy the works of D. R. (David Robert) Mace then we highly recommend this publication for your book collection. ... Read more

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This is our seventh set of Happy, Healthy Pet titles. Like the others, they are books pet owners can turn to for the essential information they need to raise a healthy pet. All books contain information on

• feeding
• housing
• grooming
• health care
• what to expect from the pet
• basic training

In addition, owners of more unusual pets will particularly appreciate the expert advice in these books because professional care for their animals may be difficult to come by. As always, the instruction is from experts—people who know their pet intimately, but also remember what it was like to have one for the first time. Happy, Healthy Pet guides are rich with professional quality color photos and are designed to be enjoyable and easy to learn from. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Great Book
I ordered this book to learn more about quaker parrots.I really learned alot and the the book was easy to understand. It has really good information, especially on what to feed them and what kind of other stuff that they need . I would really recommend this book to someone who wants to learn about quaker parrots.

THE QUAKER PARROTAN OWNER'S GUIDE TO A HAPPY HEALTHY PET
MUCH NEEDED INFO FOR A NEW PARROT OWNER OR A SEASONED PERSON THAT NEVER OWNED A GREAT QUAKER PARROT!THEY ARE AWESOME!

Basic Info
The Quaker Parrot: An Owner's Guide to a Happy Healthy Pet
This is good introductory info if you don't already own a Quaker and don't know anything abour parrots, but I strongly disagree with her method of "potty training".I feel this technique could have very dire consequences.I own a Quaker and found this book lacks the discription of these amazing birds, and the information is too basic for me.So, if you already own a Quaker or other parrot, I suggest you read "Guide To The Quaker Parrot", by Mattie Sue Athan.

Covers a wide variety of subjects
Alot of information from choosing the right parrot, taking care of it, training, and health. Very helpful.

Solid but Generic
There is very little to take issue with in this book-- but if you didn't know the title you might just as well think you were reading a book on Amazons, Greys, or any number of other parrots. The information isextremely generic with the exception of a few passages here and there. Ireally don't think this is the author's fault- and the info is useful- butif you want a really good feeling for what it's like to own a QUAKER- youshould also buy Mattie Sue Athan's outstanding book.That said, the onething I do object to here is this author's claim that any household withcats and Quakers should have the cats declawed. That may be fair to thebirds but is an incredible injustice to the felines.If you can't keepthem separate, you might be better off not having one or the other. Overall, a solid book but if I didn't already have a Quaker this book wouldnot have shown me how amazing these birds are! They are incredible. ... Read more

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Wil Cooper-Quaker theologian, teacher, and author-sets forth the theology and faith of the "plain people" of Quakerdom. His personal story brings that theology to life in an intimate way and gives us a glimpse of day-to-day life of Middleton, Ohio Conservative Friends in the early 1900's. You will delight in this story of a Quaker culture that has wisdom to offer Friends today and its impact on the life of Wilmer Cooper, founding dean of the Earlham School of Religion. ... Read more

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An excellent insider's account of Conservative Quakerism
In a rare display of the ability to bridge two worlds that are so strikingly different, Mr. Cooper has the gift of being able to invite the reader into the world of Conservative Quakerism, without making him feel asif he has just been preached to.Mr. Cooper is quite unusual in that heseems to be able to appreciate (and therefore communicate with) bothworlds, both the modern secular world we find ourselves in today, and alsothe rarified (but perhaps just as valid) world of Conservative Quakerismwhich is apparently structured around a belief that the ideals of"simplicity" and the "peace of the indwelling spirit"are still two very real and attainable virtues and are not merely two moresad casualties along the side of our modern information superhighway. ... Read more

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*Compose YOURanswer tothequestion inthisbook'sTitle . . . *
How would YOU answer the query"Whatmakes me a Quaker"if put to you while working on a classroom project about different faiths?

Adam Woog'sbook is an overview for young readers. The author shares some history of Quakerism,and tells of general practices in the Religious Society of Friends,in its many variations.This is a branch of Protestantism,unfamiliar to most people.It is one ofthree "historicPeacechurches"that do much-heralded work of compassion around the world in countries suffering from war,drought,AIDs & other epidemicsandtraumas.

If this is your first confrontation with Quakerism, and especially if you come from a traditional faith,you may not realize that "historical" Quakers attend silent,or what are called"unprogrammed"meetings.This means they do not have clergy and tryto live out their beliefs in simplicity, community and non-violence.The latter belief came when founder George Fox tried to follow Christ's way. He said,"I live by that life and power that took away the need for any war." (pg.18)

Children often accept diversity more easily than adults and should find much to interest them in this text.In unprogrammed meetings creeds are not recited,nor is baptism practiced,or the ritual of Holy Communion.In the Business Meetings of Friends,there are no votes counted.Decisions are reached through a process of sharing possible solutions,interspersed with silent meditation,weighing options and arriving at a consensus.

To further understanding,it is helpful to establish whether the person answering your queries is an "evangelical" Quaker.In discussing "historical" Friends you may want to include a mention of "Birthright Friends"and a discussion &/or definition of "a leading"(which could be interpreted as a nudge from your conscience).The emphasis of Quakers, generally,is on individual beliefs . . . sometimes expressed in "testimonies" . . . or a message from the Inner Lightso strong that one must rise to speak in the meeting.As a parent, or adult working with young people, you may want to read in greater depth about the history of Quakers.

Jane Yolen wrote an excellent history for youth, "Friend, the Story of George Fox & the Quakers" (#0816430187). It was due to be republished in 2006, but has been held up. Reviewer mcHaikuthinks the publishers may be slow to realize that there is a growing audience for her book.Author Woog has suggested other titles for children,and these may be useful.Even more useful, I believe, is answering the title question for yourself to clarify your own beliefs, Quaker or not.
... Read more

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In Friends in Life and Death two distinguished historians join forces to exploit the exceptional riches offered by the records of British and Irish Quakers for the student of social, demographic, and familial change during the period 1650-1900. Professor Vann and Eversley have analysed the experiences of more than 8,000 Quaker families, involving over 30,000 individuals, to produce an unparalleled study of patterns of child-bearing, marriage, and death among a major religious grouping. The authors, wherever possible, compare the Quakers in the British Isles with the contemporary population of Britain and Ireland as a whole, as well as with those of France, Québec, and the American colonies. ... Read more