Sexton, Dolly (1776-1884)

Biography

Sister Dolly Sexton was admitted to the Shakers in 1781. She lived at the East Family until its dissolution in 1872, and then moved to the Church Family. She enjoyed a remarkably long and productive life. At the age of 96, it was recorded that she "shelled all the beans... for 6 past weeks," and carded raccoon fur for several days at the age of 102. By 1880, she was living in what was called "the Cottage" (perhaps Ann Lee Cottage?), and Sister Eleanor Potter was her caretaker. She died a few days before she would have turned 108.