Society of Friends (Laurens, New York)

The Society of Friends is a religious group that began in England in the 1640s; its members are commonly known as Quakers.

Quakers began arriving in North America in 1656 so that by 1700 the Society of Friends was the third largest denomination in the British colonies. The organization is still known for services of silent worship and their refusal to bear arms. Modern-day members are often visible as social activists and peace advocates.

From the guide to the Society of Friends (Laurens, New York) Meeting Minutes, 1829-1840, (Special Collections Research Center, Syracuse University Libraries)