Who we were
The Shaker Messenger was originally a magazine founded by Diana and Paul Van Kolken in 1978. It was a quarterly magazine that was an essential resource for Shaker enthusiasts. Along with publishing the magazine, regular visits to Shaker villages, authoring books and lectures on the Shakers, Diana began representing Craftspeople at folk art shows and started a mail order business in Shaker and folk art. Diana then decided to open a shop. The present building located in downtown Holland, MI was purchased and renovated for a store in 1989. The Shop's business grew and the magazine was sold in 1996 so Diana could concentrate on the shop and folk art shows.
Who we are
Presently the shop is open 7 days a week for sales of Shaker designed furniture, Home accessories, boxes, etc., along with handcrafted folk and fine art items of tiles, hooked rugs, carved birds, wool pillows, framed mirrors, hand dipped candles, and many others to numerous to mention. A recent addition has been the popular Pantry of food products gathered from local, Michigan and nearby states small food entrepreneurs. Tasting of dips, jams, coffees and sauces are out every day with samples of soups, scones and pancakes enjoyed by all on Saturdays. Diana loves her little city of Holland and is an unofficial ambassador for its downtown, so stop in to see what's up or where to stay and eat.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide an outlet for quality Shaker, folk art and food products made by individual artisans and food entrepreneurs. We are committed to selling at an affordable price that provides a reasonable profit for the artist/craftsperson. We may talk a little too much because we like to get to know our customers personally and it is only natural that we have a personal "small town" relationship with our circle of Artists, craftspersons, cooks and suppliers. We strive to earn your respect through this genuine, fair, and generous approach.