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1958: September becomes National Deaf Awareness Month

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1958: September becomes National Deaf Awareness Month

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In 1958, the World Federation of the Deaf established International Week of the Deaf in September, which would eventually be increased to cover the month and become National Deaf Awareness Month. The goal was to have a celebration that promoted "the human rights of the deaf community globally" (InnoCaption). This celebration is important for highlighting achievements of Deaf individuals, addressing important issues within the community, and much more. Deaf Awareness Month has been impactful in encouraging acceptance and inclusion, increasing society's understanding of Deaf culture and sign language, and motivating individuals and organizations to improve resources for the Deaf.

InnoCaption App. (2024). The History of Deaf Awareness Month. InnoCaption. https://www.innocaption.com/recentnews/history-of-deaf-awareness-month

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1947: One of the first known Deaf interpreted Church services

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1947: One of the first known Deaf interpreted Church services

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In 1947 at a Baptist Church in Ohio, "one of the first known Deaf interpreted Church services" (Camp) took place. Previously, Deaf individuals were largely excluded from religious services due to the lack of sign language interpretation. The interpreted services at this church marked a significant shift that now allowed Deaf people to have access to sermons, worship, and fellowship in their own language, which was a key moment in recognizing their religious rights. Additionally, the inclusion of sign language in church settings further validated the use of ASL as a legitimate language, which helped to affirm Deaf identity and linguistic culture.

Camp, T. (2018). Deaf Timelines - History & Heritage. Silent Word Ministries. https://silentword.org/timelines/.

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Douglas Tilden was a Deaf sculptor and artist who died in 1935. He created many statues and sculptures that often "depicted dynamic, lifelike figures, capturing the essence of movement and emotion" (The Life). Tilden's success in the art world paved the way for future generations of Deaf artists, and he defied stereotypes associated with Deafness by becoming a symbol of talent and perseverance in the community. His works are still celebrated as artistic landmarks and many can be found in public spaces, which serve as reminders of his example of what Deaf people can achieve despite the existing social barriers.

The Life of Douglas Tilden. (2023). Deaf Websites. https://deafwebsites.com/people/famous-deaf-people/the-life-of-douglas-tilden/

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1922: Rolf Harmsen runs 100-yard dash in 9.8 seconds

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1922: Rolf Harmsen runs 100-yard dash in 9.8 seconds

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In 1922, Rolf Harmsen became the "first Deaf athlete to run the 100-yard dash in 9.8 seconds" (Hall of Fame). This time almost became the world-record, and he was extremely close to beating an Olympic runner. Harmsen's athletic feat challenged the idea that Deafness was a barrier to physical excellence, because during this time period many people believed that Deaf people had communication or coordination issues that made them unfit for competitive sports. This accomplishment became a point of pride for the Deaf community because it offered a narrative of Deaf excellence during an era dominated by oralist ideologies.

Hall of Fame: Rolf Harmsen. (n.d.). Galladeut University Athletics. https://gallaudetbison.com/honors/hall-of-fame/rolf-harmsen/50#:~:text=OFFICIAL%20ATHLETICS%20SITE%20OF%20THE%20GALLAUDET%20UNIVERSITY%20BISON,Olympic%20runner%2C%20but%20lost%20due%20to%20strong%20winds.

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1919: Illinois School for the Deaf starts a scout troop for girls

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1919: Illinois School for the Deaf starts a scout troop for girls

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In 1919, the Illinois School for the Deaf was the "first to start a scout troop for girls" (Camp). This troop became a blueprint for other Deaf schools across the country, as more Deaf schools followed to create their own Boy and Girl Scout groups. The formation of this group is foundational in Deaf youth empowerment because it marks one of the earliest examples of intersectional inclusion within a national youth organization.

Camp, T. (2018). Deaf Timelines - History & Heritage. Silent Word Ministries. https://silentword.org/timelines/

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1905: Luther H. Taylor plays for the New York Giants

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1905: Luther H. Taylor plays for the New York Giants

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In 1905, Deaf baseball player Luther H. Taylor played for the New York Giants, who won the World Series that year. Taylor communicated with "other players on the field through sign language," (Dummy Taylor) and through this he helped to increase the use of signs in baseball. He was a fan favorite, especially for the Deaf community, because he represented his community in the major leagues. Taylor proved that Deaf individuals were capable of success, which defied mainstream assumptions at the time about the athletic abilities of Deaf people.

Dummy Taylor: Former Deaf Mute New York Giants Pioneer (1900-1908). (2023). Centerfieldmaz. http://www.centerfieldmaz.com/2020/02/dummy-taylor-former-deaf-mute-new-york.html

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1956: The National Congress of Jewish Deaf was established

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1956: The National Congress of Jewish Deaf was established

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In New York City, Jewish and Deaf leaders got together to create a new type of assembly. In 1956, the National Congress of Jewish Deaf was born. One of the core values of JDC is to embrace signing in the Deaf community. While this ideal is still important today, it was controversial back in the 1950s where oralism was still being taught. This organization allowed for those who are Deaf and Jewish to come together to celebrate their culture. The formation made the existence of Jewish Deaf individuals more profound and gave security to those who identify with the group.

Jewish Deaf Congress About Us. (n.d.). Jewish Deaf Congress. https://jewishdeafcongress.org/about-jdc/#

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Dr. Ciwa Griffiths Pioneers Infant Hearing Aid Use (1954)

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Dr. Ciwa Griffiths Pioneers Infant Hearing Aid Use (1954)

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In 1954, Dr. Ciwa Griffiths made a groundbreaking contribution to audiology and early childhood development by fitting infants as young as one month old with bilateral hearing aids. At a time when many professionals believed children could not be accurately tested or fitted until age five or older, Griffiths challenged this assumption through rigorous testing, observation, and parental collaboration.

Griffiths demonstrated that early auditory stimulation was critical to speech and language development. Her work emphasized the importance of identifying hearing loss during infancy, decades before universal newborn hearing screening programs became the standard of care in the United States.

By proving that hearing loss could be diagnosed and treated in infants, Griffiths helped transform the field of pediatric audiology. Her research laid the foundation for early intervention programs that are now recognized as essential to helping Deaf and hard-of-hearing children reach developmental milestones.

Her advocacy for testing and amplifying infants' hearing capacity influenced public health policies and educational practices, helping to bridge the gap between early diagnosis and accessible language acquisition.

Reference:
Griffiths, C. (2002). Early identification of hearing loss: The Griffiths approach. The Volta Review, 102(5), 25–35.

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Andrew Foster Opens the First School for the Deaf in Africa (1957)

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Andrew Foster Opens the First School for the Deaf in Africa (1957)

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In 1957, Andrew Foster, a trailblazing figure in both Deaf and Black history founded the first school for the Deaf in Accra, Ghana. This milestone marked the beginning of an extraordinary career dedicated to expanding Deaf education throughout Africa. Foster, who became the first Black Deaf graduate of Gallaudet University in 1954, later earned a master’s degree in education and became a missionary educator.

Over the course of his life, Foster established 32 schools for the Deaf in 13 African countries, including Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Kenya, and Chad. He believed that Deaf children, regardless of race or location, deserved access to education and signed language. His efforts not only spread Deaf education but also introduced American Sign Language (ASL) and Deaf culture to new parts of the world. Today, Foster is often referred to as the “Father of Deaf Education in Africa.”

Foster's work also challenged intersectional barriers of race, language, ability, and colonialism making him a uniquely impactful figure in global Deaf history.

Reference:
Gannon, J. R. (1981). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America. National Association of the Deaf.

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1955 - William Stokoe Begins Linguistic Research at Gallaudet College

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1955 - William Stokoe Begins Linguistic Research at Gallaudet College

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Margaret Dull - Module 8

In 1955, William Stokoe was hired by Gallaudet College to teach English, but soon after, he began researching American Sign Language, challenging the assumption that ASL was not a true language. His early work in this period, supported by the college’s administration, laid the foundation for the eventual publication of the first ASL dictionary. As noted in Deaf Heritage, this research marked a quiet but revolutionary turning point that questioned oralist ideology and began a movement toward linguistic recognition and cultural pride in the Deaf community (Lane, 1984).

Lane, H. (1984). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America. Silver Spring, MD: National Association of the Deaf.

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1965 - The Publication of A Dictionary of American Sign Language on Linguistic Principles 

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1965 - The Publication of A Dictionary of American Sign Language on Linguistic Principles 

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Module 9 - Margaret Dull

The 1965 publication of A Dictionary of American Sign Language on Linguistic Principles by William Stokoe, Dorothy Casterline, and Carl Croneberg marked the first time ASL was scientifically recognized as a complete language. This breakthrough challenged the dominance of oralism in Deaf education and sparked a shift in cultural pride and Deaf identity. As Deaf Heritage explains, this research laid the groundwork for broader recognition of ASL and empowered the Deaf community to advocate for bilingual education and linguistic rights (Lane, 1984).

Lane, H. (1984). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America. Silver Spring, MD: National Association of the Deaf.

Stokoe, W. C., Casterline, D. C., & Croneberg, C. G. (1965). A dictionary of American Sign Language on linguistic principles. Washington, DC: Gallaudet College Press.

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In 1960, the Junior National Association of the Deaf was established. In 1961, NASA did experiments with deaf Gallaudet graduates ranging between 25 and 45 years old. The experiments were on orientation. Also, William Stokoe published his findings on sign language and said it is a legitimate language. In 1964, Robert Weitbrecht invented the acoustic coupler, which allowed deaf people to communicate over the phone by using a typewriter over the phone. Also, the NAD gave women the right to vote. In 1965, R. Orin Cornett developed a cued speech system at Gallaudet. In 1966, NAD raised funds to allow a deaf couple to adopt.

Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. (n.d.). Deaf history. https://www.bridgesfordeafandhh.org/deaf-history

Gallaudet University National Deaf Life Museum. (n.d.). Gallaudet University historical timeline. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://gallaudet.edu/museum/history/gallaudet-university-historical-timeline/

National Association of the Deaf. (n.d.). NAD history: 1950s. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/#1950s

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In 1950, the first behind-the-ear hearing aid was made. In 1954, Andrew Foster was the first African American to graduate from Gallaudet University. Andrew Foster then founded 31 deaf schools and 2 deaf centers in Africa. In 1957, Ida Wynette became the first African American woman to graduate from Gallaudet University. Ida Wynette taught at the Florida School for the Deaf for 32 years.

Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. (n.d.). Deaf history. https://www.bridgesfordeafandhh.org/deaf-history

National Association of the Deaf. (n.d.). NAD history: 1950s. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/#1950s

Gallaudet University National Deaf Life Museum. (n.d.). Gallaudet University historical timeline. Retrieved June 11, 2025, from https://gallaudet.edu/museum/history/gallaudet-university-historical-timeline/

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The Miss Deaf America Ambassadorship Program (MDAAP), originally named as Miss Deaf America Program (MDAP), became a reality thanks to two individuals: Douglas J. Burke and Douglas Bahl. In 1966, the National Cultural Program was established, to find hidden talents among deaf people in the visual arts. Based on the phenomenal growth of the state contests within the Cultural Program, Dr. Burke felt there was still something missing. There was one aspect of the arts that had yet to be explored, the world of drama. Dr. Burke created a vision, the need to “recognize deaf actresses at an early age” thus, with the NAD’s blessings, the Miss Deaf America Talent Pageant, was created with support of the National Cultural Program. The program evolved under Bahl’s leadership to become the Miss Deaf America Program. The purpose of the pageant was to recognize excellence in the Deaf community; the winner of the NAD Miss Deaf America title became a role model for deaf and hard of hearing women all over the nation (National Association of Deaf).

National Association of the Deaf. MDAAP history. National Association of the Deaf. https://youth.nad.org/mdaap-history/

Myrakle Johnson

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History of Miss. Deaf America

The Miss Deaf America Ambassadorship Program (MDAAP), originally named as Miss Deaf America Program (MDAP), became a reality thanks to two individuals: Douglas J. Burke and Douglas Bahl. In 1966, the National Cultural Program was established, to find hidden talents among deaf people in the visual arts. Based on the phenomenal growth of the state contests within the Cultural Program, Dr. Burke felt there was still something missing. There was one aspect of the arts that had yet to be explored, the world of drama. Dr. Burke created a vision, the need to "recognize deaf actresses at an early age" thus, with the NAD's blessings, the Miss Deaf America Talent Pageant, was created with support of the National Cultural Program. The program evolved under Bahl's leadership to become the Miss Deaf America Program.

The purpose of the pageant was to recognize excellence in the Deaf community; the winner of the NAD Miss Deaf America title became a role model for deaf and hard of hearing women all over the nation.

From that time on, the NAD MDAP was held every two years during the NAD Conference. Deaf and hard of hearing youth women across the United States came together to represent their home states and demonstrate talents, leadership, fellowship, character in their quest for the NAD Miss Deaf America title. Throughout the history of the pageant, the contestants have learned about and celebrated the uniqueness of the Deaf community, Deaf culture, and American Sign Language.

The first NAD Miss Deaf America Pageant was held in Miami Beach, Florida during the 1972 NAD Convention had five participants. Ann Billington won the first title of Miss Deaf America.

Since 1972, the pageant has changed to reflect the times. In 1976, the word 'talent' was removed and it was dubbed the NAD Miss Deaf America Pageant, similar to the structure of the Miss America Pageant. Before reaching the national-level competition, participants competed at the local and state level, thus providing a larger number of women the opportunity to test their public-speaking skills, stage presence, leadership and poise, as well as the ability to think on their feet. Contestants were judged across a broad spectrum of categories including community service, academics, perspectives, on current events, knowledge of Deaf culture, and more.

Continuing the evolution, 2008 brought about a name and program focus change. State Pageant Directors voted to make it the Miss Deaf America Ambassadorship Program (MDAAP) to reflect the significant role the contest winners took on.

The contest winner earned the title of Miss Deaf America Ambassador and was awarded the MDAAP educational scholarship. As the NAD Miss Deaf America Ambassador, the winner traveled across America, promoting the ideals of the NAD, worked for the rights of deaf and hard of hearing people and encouraged deaf youth to unite for the betterment of the Deaf community. The NAD Miss Deaf America Ambassador continued to serve as a role model to young deaf women, encouraging them to develop their potential to the fullest.

MDAAP was open to deaf and hard of hearing women from all fifty states, between the ages of 18 and 30. The selection of the NAD Miss Deaf America was based on five categories: private interview, platform presentation, artistic expression, presence and poise, and on-stage interview.

In 2012, MDAAP celebrated its 40th anniversary event as the final competition. Chanel Gleicher won the last title as the Miss. Deaf America Ambassador 2012 - 2014. The MDAAP discontinued its competition as a pageant for young women. The new program, Youth Ambassador Program, opened its doors in 2014.

See photos of all past contestants here.

1974

Mary Alice Pearce, Miss Deaf Mississippi (relinquished crown)
Pam Young, Miss Gallaudet

Seattle, WA
12 Contestants

1978

Jackie Roth, Miss Deaf Maryland (relinquished crown)
Debra Krausa, Miss Deaf Pennsylvania

Rochester, NY
23 Contestants

1994

Maureen Yates, Miss Deaf Maryland (relinquished crown)
Jennifer Yost, Miss Deaf Virginia

Knoxville, TN
39 Contestants

2010

Rachel Mazique, Miss Deaf Illinois

Philadelphia, PA
11 Contestants

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The Miss Deaf America Ambassadorship Program (MDAAP), originally named as Miss Deaf America Program (MDAP), became a reality thanks to two individuals: Douglas J. Burke and Douglas Bahl. In 1966, the National Cultural Program was established, to find hidden talents among deaf people in the visual arts.

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The Junior NAD, a program of the NAD, offers deaf and hard of hearing students in 7th through 12th grade opportunities to develop leadership skills, learn and demonstrate citizenship, and meet and interact with students from other schools and states. Students can participate in the Junior NAD by joining chapters established by their schools. Junior NAD chapters focus on advocacy, attitude, awareness, commitment, cooperation, friendship, information exchange, involvement and leadership skills. Chapters have meetings and participate in many activities such as community events and fundraisers. Skills and values obtained by chapter members during these meetings and events will help them to become future leaders and advocates in the deaf and hard of hearing community (National Association of the Deaf).

National Association of the Deaf. Junior NAD. https://www.nad.org/youth/junior-nad/

Myrakle Johnson

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During the 1960 National Association of the Deaf Convention in Dallas, Texas, Caroline H. Burnes, wife of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) president Byron B. Burnes, proposed that a Junior (Jr.) NAD organization, with chapters nationwide, be formed. Mrs. Burnes believed that it would be a simple and exciting concept – providing opportunities to develop new leaders among young deaf students.

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1951: Founding of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)

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1951: Founding of the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD)

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The World Federation of the Deaf was founded in 1951 in Rome, Italy, marking a major milestone in global Deaf history. It was created to serve as an international, non-governmental organization that represents Deaf people worldwide. The WFD's mission focuses on promoting the human rights of Deaf people, ensuring equal access to education, sign language, employment, and social inclusion.

Over time, the organization expanded its influence through policy advocacy at the United Nations, helping ensure that Deaf people's rights were acknowledged in major international agreements.

World Federation of the Deaf. (n.d.). A History: Founding through 1950s [PDF]. https://wfdeaf.org

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1940: Robert H. Weitbrecht - Deaf Inventor & Innovator 

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1940: Robert H. Weitbrecht - Deaf Inventor & Innovator 

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In the 1940s, Robert H. Weitbrecht, a brilliant Deaf scientist and engineer, began making important contributions to the field of communication. Although his most famous invention was the TTY (teletypewriter) for the Deaf. It wasn't fully developed until the 1960s, his early work in radio & electronics during the 1940s helped to lay his foundation.

Weitbrecht was one of the first Deaf individuals to receive a U.S. patent for a major communication device that directly improved accessibility for the Deaf community.

Gannon, J.R. (1981). Deaf Heritage: A Narrative History of Deaf America. National Association of the Deaf.

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1952: Hall of Fame for Deaf Athletes Created

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1952: Hall of Fame for Deaf Athletes Created

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The American Athletic Association of the Deaf, who had been making strides for the visibility and respect of Deaf athletes, created their Hall of Fame in order to "honor out standing players, coaches and leaders in years to come." This furthered the organization's goal of advancing athletics for Deaf Americans.

The AAAD-USADB Story. United States of America Deaf Basketball. (n.d.). https://usadb.us/hoops/about-us/history/

Marcos Martinez

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1950: Captioned Films for the Deaf started by Dr. Edmund B. Boatner

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1950: Captioned Films for the Deaf started by Dr. Edmund B. Boatner

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Meghan Sawyer

Dr. Boatner, the headmaster of the American School for the Deaf, witnessed Dr. Clarence O'Connor at the Lexington School for the Deaf captioning a movie for his students, inspiring Dr. Boatner to start the non-profit to provide captioned movies for Deaf students. With the help of a volunteer, J. Pierre Rakow, they discovered "the superimposed method used to caption foreign films [was] the most suitable" (Gannon 267). This non-profit eventually gained Congressional support, and in 1958, Captioned Films for the Deaf was signed into law.

Source:

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf Heritage. Deaf Heritage: A Narrative History of Deaf America. https://uc.instructure.com/courses/1774622/pages/module-2-%7C-materials?module_item_id=75564801

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1950s: Early Captioned Films for the Deaf Begin to Open Entertainment Access 

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1950s: Early Captioned Films for the Deaf Begin to Open Entertainment Access 

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During the 1950s, captioned films for the Deaf started to emerge, allowing Deaf audiences to access mainstream entertainment that had been largely inaccessible. This development was a significant cultural milestone, as it enabled Deaf people to participate more fully in popular culture and media, fostering greater inclusion and community connection. Captioned films symbolized a growing acknowledgment of Deaf people’s right to equal access to information and leisure (Norwood, 1988).

Norwood, M. J. (1988). Captioning for Deaf people: An historical overview. Described and Captioned Media Program. https://dcmp.org/learn/80-captioning-for-deaf-people-an-historical-overview

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Captioning for Deaf People: An Historical Overview

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A presentation given at Gallaudet University in 1988 by Dr. Malcolm J. Norwood. Reviews the history of captioning, including the signing of Public Law 85-905 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

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1960 – Recognition of American Sign Language as a True Language

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1960 – Recognition of American Sign Language as a True Language

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William Stokoe introduced American Sign Language (ASL) as a fully developed rule-governed language through his 1960 publication Sign Language Structure. His research fought against oralist beliefs that viewed signed languages as inferior thus starting a linguistic and cultural transformation within the Deaf community. The recognition led to the development of Deaf pride together with advocacy work and educational reform. Through his research Stokoe established a new standard for validating Deaf culture and identity which spread across both national and international levels.

Calvin Souder
Deaf. Studies in Linguistics, Occasional Papers, 8. Dept. of Anthropology and Linguistics, University of Buffalo.

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The meeting known as the Fulton Tontine was viewed as the root of the National Association of the Deaf, where their strength began developing as a national organization. The instructors of the Deaf made Fulton as well as Missouri School for the Deaf the location for their meeting.

Sources:

Missouri School for the Deaf. (n.d.). History. Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. Retrieved June 8, 2025, from https://msd.dese.mo.gov/about‑us/history#:~:text=The%20National%20Association%20of%20the%20Deaf

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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1958: Captioned Films for the Deaf Program Signed

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1958: Captioned Films for the Deaf Program Signed

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On September 2, 1958, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Public Law 58-905, which created the Captioned Films for the Deaf Program. This program gave deaf Americans access to televised and motion entertainment, after it had been made inaccessible in 1927.

Sources:

Norwood, M. J. (1988). Captioning for Deaf people: An historical overview. In J. E. Harkins & B. M. Virvan (Eds.), Speech to Text: Today and Tomorrow (Proceedings of a conference at Gallaudet University, Washington, DC, September 1988). Gallaudet Research Institute. Retrieved June 8, 2025, from https://dcmp.org/learn/80-captioning-for-deaf-people-an-historical-overview

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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On January 1, 1940, Helmer Myklebust published his book The Psychology of Deafness. In 1942, the John Tracy Clinic for the Deaf was opened in Los Angeles. In 1943, Gallaudet University won the pennant. In 1945, the American Athletic Association of the Deaf was established in Akron, Ohio. Two years later, one of the first Baptist Churches was established, which was also in Akron, Ohio. In 1947, Rhulin Thomas became the first aviator to fly coast to coast.

Timetoast. (n.d.). Deaf history from 1900–1949. Timetoast. https://www.timetoast.com/timelines/deaf-history-from-1900-1949

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1952 – Extinction of Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language

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1952 – Extinction of Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language

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Martha’s Vineyard Sign Language was a unique form of sign language that developed naturally on Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, due to a high incidence of hereditary deafness. It was used not only by the Deaf but also by many hearing residents, making the island one of the earliest examples of a truly bilingual community in the U.S. However, by the mid-20th century, transportation and communication improved and ASL slowly started to take over. "The last deaf individual from Martha’s Vineyard that knew MVSL, Katie West, passed away, effectively making MVSL an extinct language." (Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, n.d.).

Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. (n.d.). Deaf history timeline. Retrieved from https://www.bridgesfordeafandhh.org/deaf-history

NAME: Reid Bender

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1957: The first Deaf African-American woman graduates from Gallaudet College

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1957: The first Deaf African-American woman graduates from Gallaudet College

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In 1957 Ida Wynette Gray Hampton was the first African-American woman graduates from Gallaudet College! Black women were not allowed to attend Gallaudet until the 1950’s. Ida was a trail blazer for Black Deaf women at Gallaudet— Ida knew she would be vulnerable, there were no legal rights for people with disabilities, for Black people, for women, or voting rights for persons of color. Ida was the first Black member of the Delta Epsilon Sorority. After graduation she move to teach at the Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind. While in Florida she received a master’s degree from the University of North Florida. She retired in 1989 and then in 2011, Ida participated in the National Black Deaf Advocates’ Senior Citizens Reunion, where she shared her experiences overcoming barriers as a Black deaf woman at Gallaudet. In 2018, Gallaudet University honored her with a Doctor of Humane Letters degree, which was accepted on her behalf by members of the Black Student Union (WPSD Alumni Association , 2024).

Honor ida (gray) hampton in women’s History Month. WPSD Alumni Association. (2024, March 7). https://www.wpsdalumni.org/2024/03/honor-ida-gray-hampton-in-womens-history-month/

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1951: World Federation of the Deaf was created. 

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1951: World Federation of the Deaf was created. 

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In September of 1951, delegations form 25 different countries got together in Rome, Italy and created the World Federation of the Deaf. They created this organization due to the barriers that Deaf people faced while trying to achieve full accessibility, equal human rights and the right to participate in political decisions in their lives.

Our story: Advocating deaf rights since 1951. World Federation of the Deaf. (n.d.). https://wfdeaf.org/our-story/

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The Diplomat was Zenith's first behind-the-ear hearing aid and it had four transistors. It was made to sit right against the outter ear. These replaced the eye glasses hearing device. Later this would be upgraded to an in the ear device.

Concealed hearing devices of the 20th Century. (n.d.). https://beckerexhibits.wustl.edu/legacy-exhibits/did/20thcent/part6.htm#:~:text=The%20behind%2Dthe%2Dear%20hearing,in%20the%201980s%20and%201990s.

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1954: Andrew Foster graduates from Gallaudet University

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1954: Andrew Foster graduates from Gallaudet University

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Andrew Foster lost his hearing at the age of 11 from contracting spinal meningitis, a case that his brother ended up contracting as well. In his youth, access to education was limited to due to segregation and resulting him ony attending up to 6th grade. Through taking night courses, he was able to receive his High School Diploma at the age of 26. After multiple rejections, he was officially accepted into Gallaudet 1951 where he went on to be the first black Deaf man to receive a BA. He later earned his two Master's degrees. In 1961 he married his wife Berta after they had met at the Congress for Deaf in Germany 1959. After his graduation, he established the Christian Mission for the Deaf which would oversee the opening of 31 schools for the Deaf all across Africa. His work is celebrated today as being the major reason so many Deaf individuals across the African continent are educated and able to use sign language.

-Isaac Capozza

Silent Word Ministries. (n.d.). Deaf Timelines. Retrieved June 7, 2025 from https://silentword.org/timelines/

Zambia Hunt. (2024). The Missionary Legacy of Andrew Foster - The Father of Deaf Education in Africa. Retrieved June 7, 2025 from https://zambiahunt.com/2024/09/09/the-missionary-legacy-of-andrew-foster-the-father-of-deaf-education-in-africa-2/

Gallaudet University. (2014). Visionary Leader - May 2014, Andrew Foster. Retrieved June 7, 2025 from https://gallaudet.edu/museum/celebrating-150-years/visionary-leader-may-2014-andrew-foster/

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1953: The Bill Rice Ranch is established

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1953: The Bill Rice Ranch is established

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In 1950, Bill Rice (and Evangelist) purchased an abandoned property just outside of Murfreesboro, Tennessee with the goal of starting a ranch for deaf children. In 1953, the ranch was officially established and Bill and his wife Cathy started the Cumberwood Camp. Their daughter had been born Deaf, altough there is no actualy talk of her or her name on their official website so...who knows how much of this was actually done for her. 1953 marks the first year of the camp for the Deaf youth where twelve children attended that first summer. The goal, however, was to bring "God's Salvation" to Deaf people across the country as they were apparently "unreached by God's love". While they did invite Deaf people free of charge, in later years this changed. This marks the ungoing and continuous misguided stance that hearing people have, that the Deaf are in need of saving.

-Isaac Capozza

Silent Word Ministries. (n.d.). Deaf Timelines. Retrieved on June 7, 2025 from https://silentword.org/timelines/

Bill Rice Ranch. (n.d.) The Ranch's History. Retrieved June 7, 2024 from https://billriceranch.org/history/

Bill Rice Ranch. (n.d.) Bill Rice III. Retrieved June 7, 2024 from https://billriceranch.org/bill-rice-iii/

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Learn more about the history and founding of the Bill Rice Ranch.

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William Stokoe is known as the father of American Sign Language. He was an English professor who attended Gallaudet University in 1955 to teach Deaf students (West, 2020). There, he observed the use of sign language and became fascinated. He was impressed and wondered why ASL was not taught to Deaf students. He began researching the linguistics of what is now known as American Sign Language. He received his first NSF grant to study ASL in 1960. He used this to study the structure and form of the language. Stokoe published Grammar of Sign Language in 1960. Then in 1965, he published A Dictionary of American Sign Language, which described the signs based on placement, handshape, and movement of signs (Gallaudet University, n.d.). He was criticized heavily for his research, but nevertheless, he persevered. He proved that American Sign Language was a language and revolutionized deaf education in the United States (Chamot, 2003). He paved the way for reforms and changed the education system.

Chamot, J. (2003, June 25). American Sign Language Spoken Here. NSF - National Science Foundation. https://www.nsf.gov/news/american-sign-language-spoken-here

‌Gallaudet University. (n.d.). American Sign Language, a language recognized. Gallaudet University. https://gallaudet.edu/museum/exhibits/history-through-deaf-eyes/awareness-access-and-change/american-sign-language-a-language-recognized/

West, E. (2020, January 30). William Stokoe – American Sign Language scholar. British Deaf News. https://www.britishdeafnews.co.uk/william-stokoe/

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In 1957 a piece in Life magazine came out quoting a conversation the Queen of England had (Gannon, 2011). At the time this was peculiar because news reporters were not typically allowed close enough to the Royal family to receive this kind of information. However, an editor from Life magazine had reached out to a Deaf professor at Gallaudet college, Robert Panara (Gannon, 2011). The editor had asked if it was possible to lipread full conversations, Robert confirmed that if he was able to see the lips at all times then he could (Gannon, 2011). Therefore the men decided to try this theory out. They met up in loud crowded places to run trials and see if lipreading was possible in a busy scenario. When the Queen came to town for the Maryland football game, the pair were all set up with binoculars and a tape recorder to lipread the Queens conversations (Gannon, 2011). In the end the operation proved successful.

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf Heritage. Gallaudet University Press.

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1943 - 5 Ironmen - won pennant - only 5 players 

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1943 - 5 Ironmen - won pennant - only 5 players 

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With no alternates, this team won 3 straight playoff games. No one excepted them to win one regular season game. the successor the team shows an amazing story of courage, teamwork and overcoming adversity to be a story of inspiration for many basketball teams over the decades.

Home. United States of America Deaf Basketball. (n.d.). https://usadb.us/hoops/youth/iron-five-classic/

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1940: Helmer Myklebust publishes The Psychology of Deafness

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1940: Helmer Myklebust publishes The Psychology of Deafness

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In this book written by Helmer Myklebust it is studied information regarding different information that was known at that time about being deaf, different ways that people had become deaf, comparisons of hearing and deaf children, the nature and extent of deafness, speech and writing, as well and speechreading.

Grune and Stratton. (1960, January 1). Psychology of deafness : Helmer R. myklebust : Free download, Borrow, and streaming. Internet Archive. https://archive.org/details/psychologyofdeaf00helm/page/n13/mode/2up

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1948: An article, "World's Safest Drivers", was shown in the Ford Times helping demonstrate Deaf capability.

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1948: An article, "World's Safest Drivers", was shown in the Ford Times helping demonstrate Deaf capability.

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As it is common knowledge, the car industry had a great expansion in the United States with many innovative names, such as Ford. As the industry grew, more and more people were driving motor vehicles, including Deaf people. This sparked some controversy, if Deaf people should be allowed to drive vehicles given they cannot hear. This was a concern as many believed that the absence of hearing would result in more dangerous conditions. However, this could not be more far from the truth, as due to their inability to hear, Deaf people must concentrate more on the road than hearing drivers. This focus ultimately results in safer driving, contrary to what others may have thought. Additionally, Deaf people can not be distracted by things such as music or children yelling. The Ford Times progresses this belief, helping highlight the capability of Deaf people in driving motor vehicles (Deaf driving on the road, n.d.). This served as a boost for the community, to show that they are able to complete day-to-day activites just like anyone else.

Deaf driving on the road. (n.d.). HandSpeak. https://www.handspeak.com/learn/280/

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During the 1950s Deaf peddlers became increasingly popular (Gannon, 2011). Peddlers were seen as poor, lower class individuals seeking money in conniving ways. In the 1950s, Deaf people were not seen as the ideal employee; in fact they were often discriminated against when it came to the workplace (Gannon, 2011). This caused an overflow of Deaf peddlers. However, many members of the Deaf community felt annoyed by this phenomenon (Gannon, 2011). Often times hearing people would act as though they were Deaf to con others out of money (Gannon, 2011). The Deaf community had negative feelings towards this because it gave hearing people the idea that Deaf people were to be pitied and in need of charity (Gannon, 2011).

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf Heritage. Gallaudet University Press.

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1954 - First African American to graduate from Gallaudet College 

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1954 - First African American to graduate from Gallaudet College 

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Andrew Foster graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in only three years after experiencing racism and bullying on campus. He went on to opening 32 schools for Deaf children in countries throughout 13 African nations and may be known as "father of deaf education in Africa" and also two centers for the Deaf in Africa.

Gallaudet University. (2014, May). Visionary Leader - May 2014, Andrew Foster. Gallaudet University. https://gallaudet.edu/museum/celebrating-150-years/visionary-leader-may-2014-andrew-foster/

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1943 - The John Tracy Clinic for the Deaf (JTC) opened in Los Angeles

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1943 - The John Tracy Clinic for the Deaf (JTC) opened in Los Angeles

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Louise Treadwell Tracy had a deaf son named John and experienced first-hand of the limited services, technology, and education that were available for children like John. Years later, Louise received desperate calls from 12 mothers with young deaf children that were asking for help. At the time, JTC was the first place to provide services to educate and offer support for parents of children with hearing loss. It is a private non-profit provider of audiology, early intervention and education services for children between ages birth-5 years old.

“Our Story - John Tracy Center.” John Tracy Center, 11 Oct. 2021, www.jtc.org/about/our-story/.https://www.timetoast.com/users/905820.

“Timetoast.” Timetoast Timelines, Timetoast, 1900, www.timetoast.com/timelines/deaf-history-from-1900-1949.

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1940s: The Legacy of Earl Roberts and the Gallaudet Five Iron Men

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1940s: The Legacy of Earl Roberts and the Gallaudet Five Iron Men

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Earl Roberts was one of the legendary "Five Iron Men" of Gallaudet University during the early 1940s. At a time when Deaf people were excluded from military service in World War II, Roberts and his teammates uplifted the Deaf community by achieving national recognition for their athletic excellence. Their success on the basketball court became a symbol of Deaf strength, pride, and unity.

While mainstream society underestimated the Deaf community, the Five Iron Men proved their capabilities not just in sports but in representing a thriving Deaf identity. Their victories provided a counter-narrative to the exclusion and discrimination Deaf people faced during this time.

APA Citation:

The story of Earl Roberts and the Five Iron Men became a point of pride and inspiration for the Deaf community during the 1940s (Gannon, 1981).

Gannon, J.R. (1981). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America. National Association of the Deaf.

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1937 - NAD advocated for "deaf" and "hard of hearing" terms 

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1937 - NAD advocated for "deaf" and "hard of hearing" terms 

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The National Association of the Deaf began criticizing the terms such as "deaf-mute," "mute," "deaf-dumb," "semi-mute," and "deafened" since it often implied that the individual is lacking intellectual capacity. These new terms are more inclusive and respectful for individuals in the Deaf community. This shift in terminology began the start to changing the Deaf community's negative stereotypes and helped towards improving public awareness.

National Association of the Deaf. “National Association of the Deaf - NAD.” Nad.org, 2019, www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/.

Christine Arzanan

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1920 - NAD passed a resolution that stated anywho who tried to deprive the deaf of sign language was an enemy of their interest and happiness. 

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1920 - NAD passed a resolution that stated anywho who tried to deprive the deaf of sign language was an enemy of their interest and happiness. 

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With the "oral method" on the rise during this time period, this resolution advocated for the use of sign language within the Deaf community. This also helped encourage to protest the actions of doctors who were giving false claims about restoring hearing, instead of spreading positive advice on deaf education.

“NAD - National Association of the Deaf.” Nad.org, 2024, www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/#1920s.

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1940: The Push for a Federal Bureau for the Deaf

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1940: The Push for a Federal Bureau for the Deaf

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In the early 1940s, Deaf leaders lobbied for the creation of a Bureau for the Deaf within the U.S. Department of Labor. This proposed bureau would have tracked employment trends, created job opportunities, and promoted the abilities of Deaf workers across the country. Advocates like Paul A. Strachan, a politically savvy (and newly Deaf) organizer, pushed for the NAD to take bolder action in Washington. However, disagreements over whether to align with broader disability groups or maintain Deaf-specific advocacy caused internal friction. Despite promising momentum, the bill was ultimately rejected which highlighted both the possibilities and limitations of Deaf political influence in the 1940s.

APA Citation:
Buchanan, R. M. (1999). Illusions of equality: Deaf Americans in school and factory, 1850–1950 (pp. 102–107). Gallaudet University Press.

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 1941: Deaf Hawaiians Witness Pearl Harbor

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 1941: Deaf Hawaiians Witness Pearl Harbor

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On December 7, 1941, students at the Diamond Head School for the Deaf in Honolulu were among the first Deaf Americans to experience the attack on Pearl Harbor. That morning, vibrations from Japanese bombs were initially mistaken by students as roughhousing until explosions rocked the dormitory just two blocks away. Deaf teacher Alden Ravn and school staff quickly responded, transforming school buildings into makeshift bomb shelters and preparing for possible invasion. The students endured blackouts, rationing, and fear, but also displayed incredible resilience.

This moment became a vivid reminder that Deaf Americans were present during defining national events not just as observers, but as active members of their communities.

APA Citation:
Gannon, J. R. (2011). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America (pp. 219–220). Gallaudet University Press.

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Deaf Women in the Workforce During the Depression

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Deaf Women in the Workforce During the Depression

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In the 1930s, Deaf women faced double discrimination—both as women and as Deaf individuals—yet they persisted in forging professional lives. Many worked as teachers, housemothers, seamstresses, and domestic workers. Vocational programs taught them skills like sewing and clerical work, which they used to support themselves and their communities. Deaf women also took leadership in club auxiliaries and school programs, organizing events and acting as role models for younger generations. Their resilience during economic hardship helped sustain Deaf culture.

APA Citation:
Van Cleve, J. V., & Crouch, B. A. (1989). A place of their own: Creating the Deaf community in America. Gallaudet University Press.

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Agatha Tiegel Hanson – A Pioneer Still Leading by Example

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Agatha Tiegel Hanson – A Pioneer Still Leading by Example

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Although Agatha Tiegel Hanson graduated from Gallaudet in 1893, her influence continued into the 1930s as she remained a powerful role model for Deaf women across the country. As the first Deaf woman to graduate with a full degree from Gallaudet, Hanson broke barriers in higher education and gender expectations. In the 1930s, she continued writing and mentoring, encouraging Deaf women to seek leadership roles in schools, clubs, and the workforce. Her founding of the O.W.L.S. (Organization of Women’s Literary Society) lived on through the writing and activism of the next generation of Deaf women.

APA Citation:
Gannon, J. R. (1981). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America. National Association of the Deaf.

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1940s: Deaf Amercians Work at Goodyear and Firestone During WWII

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1940s: Deaf Amercians Work at Goodyear and Firestone During WWII

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During WWII, around one thousand Deaf Americans worked for tire companies Goodyear and Firestone. They helped the war time effort with their competency in manufacturing. Ben Schowe Sr. a labor economics researcher was a major advocate for the hiring of Deaf people, leading to their recruitment to the tire companies.

Kannapell, B. M. (n.d.). The Forgotten Americans: Deaf War Plant Workers During World War II. https://www.rit.edu/deafww2/sites/rit.edu.deafww2/files/documents/other/TheForgottenAmericansPDF.pdf

Marcos Martinez

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(Left to right) Renee and Louise Goldshmied, and Rosa. Three Generations

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1942: Death of Rosa Ohs, a Deaf Jewish Woman

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1942: Death of Rosa Ohs, a Deaf Jewish Woman

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Rosa Ohs was a Jewish woman who became deaf at the age of 17 after coming down with scarlet fever. Rosa had a daughter and son-in-law who were able to escape the holocaust, fleeing to the United States. Unfortunately, they were not able to get a visa for Rosa, and she would be deported to Theresienstadt, where she would later be transferred to another holocaust camp. She passed away at that camp on October 15, 1942.

Source:

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. (n.d.). Photograph of a Jewish Deaf woman in Berlin during Kristallnacht. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. https://collections.ushmm.org/search/catalog/pa1184220

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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Juliette "Daisy" Low founded Girl Scouts in 1912 in Savannah, Georgia. Originally called the Girl Guides of America, Low wanted to create a new organization led by girl troops within the U.S. During this time, women in the U.S. didn't have votings rights and were expected to obey strict, social norms. After talking to Robert Baden-Powell who founded Boy Scouts, Low was inspired to recruit her members for her troop---the first gathering consisted of 18 girls to encourage them to embrace their unique strengths, develop leadership skills and to advocate for themselves and others. They learned skills such as map reading, first aid, cooking, knot tying, and played basketball.

“About Early Girl Scouting | Juliette Gordon Low Birthplace.” Www.juliettegordonlowbirthplace.org, www.juliettegordonlowbirthplace.org/en/explore/history/about-early-girl-scouting.html.

“Girl Scout History | Girl Scouts.” Www.girlscouts.org, www.girlscouts.org/en/discover/about-us/history.html.

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(Above) The U.S.S. Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, Meghan Sawyer

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1943: Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet Ship built for WWII

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1943: Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet Ship built for WWII

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The California Shipbuilding Corporation built a warship that was sent to the Soviet Union during World War II. The name was given by author Peal S. Buck, who said: "'This is a lucky ship built by great hands and named for a great soul. I am sure that this ship, too, has a great soul and that it will ride all storms as Gallaudet did'" (Gannon 224). After, the ship was returned to the U.S., it was in the naval reserve until it eventually became a cargo ship, sailing as a Liberian and Greek ship until it eventually sank in 1969. This ship's strength and perseverance mirrored that of its namesake: the man who saw the potential for education and fulfillment of the Deaf long before anyone else did. His determination is what led to the multitude of education, opportunity, and flourishing of Deaf individuals in America.

Source:

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf Heritage. Deaf Heritage: A Narrative History of Deaf America. https://uc.instructure.com/courses/1774622/pages/module-2-%7C-materials?module_item_id=75564801

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1947: Rhulin Albert Thomas First Deaf Aviator to Fly Coast to Coast 

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1947: Rhulin Albert Thomas First Deaf Aviator to Fly Coast to Coast 

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Rhulin Albert Thomas graduated from the Missouri School for the Deaf, also attending Gallaudet College for one year. He worked in the US Senate mail room, as well as a printer for multiple DC newspapers. He took flying lessons after World War II, bought his own plane after obtaining his flying license. Ultimately leading him to be the first from the deaf community to fly coast to coast.

Source:

Gallaudet University Library. (n.d.). Thomas, Rhulin Albert. Gallaudet University Library Guide to Deaf Biographies and Index to Deaf Periodicals. https://liblists.wrlc.org/biographies/52509

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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Formation of the National Association of the Deaf War Service Committee (1942)

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Formation of the National Association of the Deaf War Service Committee (1942)

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In 1942, the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) created the War Service Committee to assist Deaf Americans during World War II. Although Deaf individuals were barred from military service, many wanted to help the war effort. The committee aimed to help Deaf workers secure employment in defense industries and advocated for fair treatment and access to training. This initiative marked one of the earliest organized efforts to ensure Deaf inclusion in national labor mobilization, and it helped unify Deaf civic engagement during a time of widespread discrimination and oralist policy dominance (Nomeland & Nomeland, 2012).
—Calvin Souder

Reference
Nomeland, R. E., & Nomeland, M. M. (2012). Illusions of Equality: Deaf Americans in School and Factory 1850–1950. Gallaudet University Press. This is just from our material I find it easier than looking up things and going down a rabbit hole, though that is fun too!

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1943: Thomas H. Gallaudet Liberty Ship was built for World War II

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1943: Thomas H. Gallaudet Liberty Ship was built for World War II

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This tanker type ship was built in Los Angeles, California. This Z-ET1-S-C3 design was aptly named after Thomas H. Gallaudet. This ship was later renamed Maikop during the Cold War. However, the ship's initial name was meant to commemorate the founder of Gallaudet University. This ship in particular was part of a massive fleet of Liberty ships that transported vital supplies for the United States and Allies. This was not the first ship to be named after a deaf individual, however. The first recorded navy ship to be named after a deaf person was the USS Edsall, which was a Clemson-class destroyer named in honor of deaf Seaman Norman Eckley Edsall (1873-1899). The act of naming war ships are often utilized as a means to honor indiviudals whom have distinguished themselves in the military or made significant contrinbutions to the nation. This act is meant as a means of immortalizing their legacy.

-Isaac Capozza

Silent Word Ministries. (n.d.). Deaf Timelines retrieved on June 4, 2025 from https://silentword.org/timelines/

Auke Visser's Famous T - Tankers Pages. (n.d.). Thomas H. Gallaudet retrieved on June 4, 2025 from https://www.aukevisser.nl/t2tanker/t-tankers-2/id1151.htm

Naval History and Heritage Command (n.d.). USS Edsall (DD-219) retrieved on June 4, 2025 from https://www.history.navy.mil/our-collections/photography/us-navy-ships/alphabetical-listing/e/uss-edsall--dd-219-0.html

Naval History and Heritage Command (n.d.). The Evolution of Ship Naming in the U.S. Navy retrieved on June 4, 2025 from https://www.history.navy.mil/browse-by-topic/heritage/customs-and-traditions0/ship-naming/the-evolution-of-ship-naming-in-the-u-s--navy.html

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1944: Establishment of the National Association of the Deaf Youth Division 

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1944: Establishment of the National Association of the Deaf Youth Division 

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In 1944, the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) formally established its Youth Division to empower Deaf young people across the United States. This division provided a platform for Deaf youth to organize, advocate for their rights, and foster social connections during a time when many Deaf young people faced isolation due to oralist educational policies and wartime disruptions (Becker, 2025).

Becker, J. C. (2025). History of the Utah Association of the Deaf conventions/conferences and its officers. Utah Deaf History and Culture. https://www.utahdeafhistory.com/history-of-the-utah-association-of-the-deaf-conventionsconferences-and-its-officers.html

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1943: The John Tracy Clinic for the Deaf opens in Los Angeles

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1943: The John Tracy Clinic for the Deaf opens in Los Angeles

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John Tracy was born June 16, 1924 to Spencer and Louise Tracy. At 10 months old, John's mother was alarmed when the infant did not react to a door that had accidentally slammed shut. After Louise called after him and received no kind of response, she realized her baby was deaf. After this profound hearing loss diagnosis, Louise dedicated all of her time to studying the education of Deaf children. She wanted to learn how Deaf children could learn to communicate. Through her patience and guidance, her son was not only able to succeed at communicating but thrived in life. Once John was grown, Louise received calls from twelve mothers of young deaf children. In 1943, she founded JTC in response to the stark lack of education, services, and technology available to Deaf children. The clinic was the only institution worldwide to have these services offered to educate and support the parents of infants and preschool children with hearing impairment and deafness. This truly remarkable act of love resulted in over 80 years of love and community support for children belonging to the Deaf community.

-Isaac Capozza

Silent Word Ministries. (n.d.). Deaf Timeline. Retrieved June 4, 2025 from https://silentword.org/timelines/

John Tracy Clinic. (n.d.) Our History. Retrieved June 4, 2025 from https://www.jtc.org/about/our-story/

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In 1930, Buffalo, New York, the NAD made a statue for Abbé Charles Michael de l’Epée, who founded the first free school for the deaf. When World War 2 started, the hearing men would be on the front lines of battle, which made employers hire deaf men. However the Nazi's targeted deaf people in Europe and around 17,000 deaf people were murdered. Some women were forced to have abortions or were killed.

Encyclopaedia Britannica. (n.d.). Deaf history - The 20th century. Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/science/deaf-history/The-20th-century

National Association of the Deaf. (n.d.). NAD history: 1930s. https://www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/#1930s

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Originally called Girl Guiding, Juliette Gordon Low "Daisy" founded Girl Scouts of the USA in Savannah, Georgia. At the time, women were unable to vote and experienced strict social norms. She had a meeting with the founder of Boy Scouts (Sir Robert Baden-Powell) and was inspired to begin something "girl-led." She gathered a small troop of 18 girls that consisted of her relatives and girls from established families in her town. It pushed boundaries that helped girls advocate for themselves and others, while developing leadership skills. She envisioned a movement for girls to come together and embrace their unique strengths and passions. Each troop was divided into smaller units/"patrols" and were named after a flower. They learned a wide variety of skills that included map reading, first aid, cooking, knot tying, and also played sports.

Juliette Gordon Low | Girl Scouts. (2016). Www.girlscouts.org. https://www.girlscouts.org/en/discover/about-us/history/juliette-gordon-low.html

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Spring, K. (2017). Juliette Gordon Low. National Women’s History Museum. https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/juliette-gordon-low

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Margaret Dull

In 1943, the Gallaudet College football team, known as the "Five Iron Men," defied all odds by playing an entire game without substitutions and securing a victory over a rival team. During a time when Deaf people faced systemic exclusion from military service and employment during World War II, the determination and teamwork demonstrated by these five players became a source of pride and inspiration within the Deaf community. The Iron Men represented more than athletic ability, they became symbols of Deaf resilience, excellence, and the power of collective identity during a time of global conflict and marginalization (Deaf Heritage, 1996).

Gannon, J. R. (1996). Deaf Heritage: A Narrative History of Deaf America. National Association of the Deaf.

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1930s – Growth of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf during the Great Depression

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1930s – Growth of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf during the Great Depression

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Despite the economic hardships of the Great Depression, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf experienced exponential growth during the 1930s. Originally founded in 1901 to provide insurance and burial benefits to Deaf members, the NFSD expanded its membership and influence during a time when many Deaf individuals faced discrimination and unemployment. The Society became more politically active and vocal in advocating for Deaf labor rights, particularly through efforts to establish labor bureaus that would educate employers and connect Deaf people with job opportunities (Baynton, 2001). This development showed the power of collective action and the importance of Deaf led institutions in shaping economic and social futures for the community.

Baynton, D. C. (2001). Forbidden signs: American culture and the campaign against sign language. University of Chicago Press.

USA Deaf Sports Federation. (n.d.). History of USA Deaf Sports Federation. https://usdeafsports.org/about/history/

Margaret Dull

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1945: The American Athletic Association of the Deaf

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1945: The American Athletic Association of the Deaf

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Originally called the American Athletic Union of the Deaf was founded in 1945 at the first national deaf basketball tournament in Akron, Ohio. Started by deaf sports fans like Art Kruger and Thomas W. Elliott, the organization quickly grew, affiliated with international bodies, and hosted several Deaflympics. It was a great way to promote deaf sports and support deaf athletes, later they changed the name to the American Athletic Association of the Deaf (AAAD) and eventually the USA Deaf Sports Federation in 1997. It expanded into multiple sports over the decades and established a Hall of Fame in 1953, honoring figures like William “Dummy” Hoy (Gallaudet University Archives).

The American Athletic Association of the Deaf Clipping Collection, MSS236. Gallaudet University Archives. https://gaarchihves.gallaudet.edu/repositories/2/resources/229 Accessed June 04, 2025.

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The Buff and Blue is a newspaper that Gallaudet University publishes. The newspaper was first published in 1892. This was a significant moment because it was one of the first outlets to primarily focus on Deaf news and spread it across the country (Stewart, 1892). In 1942 the paper, which gained popularity in the Deaf community, celebrated its 50th anniversary (Kennedy and Malzkuhn, 1942). In the article topics like student enrollment, honor roll, and wedding announcements were included. It also discussed new information regarding staff and sororities and fraternities (Kennedy and Malzkuhn, 1942). There is most notably a piece written about the past 50 years of Buff and Blue and the impact it has had on the Deaf community (Kennedy and Malzkuhn, 1942).

Stewart, James M., "The Buff and Blue Vol. 01, No. 01 November 1, 1892" (1892).
1892-1900. 1.
https://ida.gallaudet.edu/buff-blue_1892-1900/1

Kennedy, Donald and Malzkuhn, Eric, "The Buff and Blue Vol. 51, No. 1 October 26, 1942" (1942).1941-1950. 24.
https://ida.gallaudet.edu/buff-blue_1941-1950/24

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1940s - Deaf Individuals Employed in War Industries

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1940s - Deaf Individuals Employed in War Industries

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During World War II, Deaf Americans took jobs in defense factories such as Goodyear and Firestone, performing well in roles like aircraft and tire manufacturing. Companies used sign language interpreters and visual training methods to support their success.

Source:
Gallaudet University Museum. (n.d.). Factory work: Jobs available to deaf workers during World War II. Gallaudet University. https://gallaudet.edu/museum/exhibits/history-through-deaf-eyes/community-building/factory-work-jobs-available-to-deaf-workers-durin-world-war-ii/

NAME: Reid Bender

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1941: Eric Malzkuhn; A Deaf Man Recruited for War

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1941: Eric Malzkuhn; A Deaf Man Recruited for War

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In 1941 as millions of Americans learned that their country was going to war, the men were forced to enlist. A few Deaf men tried to enlist for the sake of their love for their country (Gannon, 2011). One of these men was Eric Malzkuhn. Eric assumed that his doctor knew that he had became Deaf, but he did not know this (Gannon, 2011). Because of this and Eric's ability to lipread, he was sent papers to join (Gannon, 2011). His time was short-lived when a sergeant was telling him his orders and Eric could not hear him (Gannon, 2011).

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf Heritage. Gallaudet University Press.

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1930: The Deaf Mute Howls written by Albert Ballin

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1930: The Deaf Mute Howls written by Albert Ballin

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Originally published in 1930, The Deaf Mute Howls by Albert Ballin challenged the dominant approach of teaching deaf children to speak and lip-read while sign language was banned at the time. Drawing from his own life and the experiences of others in a late 19th-century deaf residential school, Ballin expressed his struggles with being accepted in a hearing-dominated society.

The book explores how deaf people viewed themselves during that era. Though Ballin uses outdated terms like “deaf-mute” and laments his limited language development, he also criticizes how society, especially hearing people, failed to make communication accessible and argued that everyone should learn sign language. Despite his surprising support for closing residential schools, an idea promoted by Alexander Graham Bell, Ballin offered a vivid and engaging glimpse into deaf life, including his fascination with the growing film industry (The Deaf Mute Howls,1930).

The Deaf Mute Howls. Gallaudet University Press. (n.d.). https://gupress.gallaudet.edu/Books/T/The-Deaf-Mute-Howls

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1927: Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing was established 

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1927: Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing was established 

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In 1927, Bridges for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing was started by Margaret Lane Washington. She was a mother from Middle Tennessee who began to lose her hearing at a young age. Since there were no local resources available, she moved to Washington, D.C., where she became a certified lip reading instructor. In 1927, she held her first speech reading class at the Watkins Institute in downtown Nashville. That class of thirteen students marked the beginning of what would become Bridges. Ms. Washington stayed actively involved with the organization until her passing in 1991, witnessing its growth and changes over the years. Today, Bridges offers a wide range of services and programs for people of all ages—from infancy to older adulthood (Deaf history2019).

Deaf history. bridgesfordeafandhh. (2019). https://www.bridgesfordeafandhh.org/deaf-history#:~:text=1921%20Earl%20C.,in%20Pershing%20Stadium%20in%20Paris.

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1910: Alice Nicholson became the first female Editor-in-Chief of The Buff and Blue. 

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1910: Alice Nicholson became the first female Editor-in-Chief of The Buff and Blue. 

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The June 1910 issue of The Buff and Blue was important because it featured the first woman as editor-in-chief, Alice Nicholson. In this issue one of the first articles that stuck out to me was titled, “That Class of 1910”, it was a reflection on the graduating class in a proud and light hearted way. They interestingly added in statistics regarding the height and weight of the graduates (Grace & Nicholson, 1910). Following that were anecdotes from the seniors which included Alice Nicholson’s titled, “Florida”. She wrote about her potential for being inducted into the Gallaudet Hall of Fame, her love for literature especially love stories, her plans to move to Florida post graduation and how she was often compared to Xantippe, Socrates’ wife, known for being strong willed and outspoken (Nicholson, 1910). Alice also had another written piece in this issue titled, “The Fiction of Today”, she wrote about how many of the oldest stories just get reused in a different format for each generation to learn the lesson it’s trying to teach but it also be applicable to their lives (Nicholson, 1910).

Grace, Homer E. and Nicholson, Alice, "The Buff and Blue Vol. 18, No. 9 June 1910" (1910). 1901-1910. 84.
https://ida.gallaudet.edu/buff-blue_1901-1910/84

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Founded on 23 September 1951 in Rome, Italy, following the first World Congress of delegates from 25 national deaf associations, the World Federation of the Deaf emerged in response to the barriers that deaf people face in achieving full accessibility, equal human rights, and participation in political decisions affecting their lives. The WFD is one of the oldest international organizations of persons with disabilities in the world (World Federation of the Deaf.)

World Federation of the Deaf. Our story. World Federation of the Deaf. Retrieved from https://wfdeaf.org/our-story/

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Our Story | Advocating Deaf Rights Since 1951

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Founded in 1951, WFD has championed deaf rights globally, breaking barriers to accessibility, equality, and political participation for deaf people.

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When the Nazi party came to power in Germany in 1933, they promised stability, prosperity and national renewal to a country which, since its defeat in the First World War, had suffered constant social and economic upheaval. Yet as with all totalitarian regimes, there was a darker side. Hitler was obsessed with racial purity - with the idea that nature had created a superior Aryan race, an elite with the quickest minds and most able bodies. Therefore, by the laws of nature, anyone judged ‘inferior’ or 'weak' should be eradicated to protect the 'purity' of the gene pool. Into this category came Jews, gypsies, black people, gay people - plus deaf and disabled people (Clare, J.D.)

Clare, J. D. Deaf Holocaust. JohnDClare.net. Retrieved from https://www.johndclare.net/Nazi_Germany3_deafholocaust.htm

Myrakle Johnson

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This article appeared on the BBC SeeHear website, but was removed in 2010.

I have therefore reproduced it here, although it remains, of course, © BBC.

The Aryan race: eradicating the inferior

When the Nazi party came to power in Germany in 1933, they promised stability, prosperity and national renewal to a country which, since its defeat in the First World War, had suffered constant social and economic upheaval. Yet as with all totalitarian regimes, there was a darker side. Hitler was obsessed with racial purity - with the idea that nature had created a superior Aryan race, an elite with the quickest minds and most able bodies. Therefore, by the laws of nature, anyone judged 'inferior' or 'weak' should be eradicated to protect the 'purity' of the gene pool. Into this category came Jews, gypsies, black people, gay people - plus deaf and disabled people.

Sterilisation

In July 1933, the Nazi regime introduced a controversial new law to prevent the 'unfit' from having children. They enforced the sterilisation of certain defined groups including: blind, manically depressed, physically malformed, promiscuous women and deaf people. Those thought to have hereditory deafness had to attend a medical examination to decide whether they should be sterilised. Though there was an appeals procedure, the vast majority were turned down.

Education

It's estimated that some 17,000 deaf people were sterilised between 1933 and 1945 - the youngest was only 9 years old. Given that there was no national register of deaf or disabled people in Germany, many were given over to the authorities by teachers of the deaf - the very people trusted with their care and support. Some Nazi educationalists even began to question the right of deaf children to be educated at all, believing the education of the 'inferior' to be wasteful.

Abortions

From sterilisation, it was just a short step to preventing the birth of deaf and disabled children. In 1935, doctors were given the legal right to terminate pregnancies by force if an inherited genetic condition, such as deafness, was suspected. Abortions were carried out as late as six months into the pregnancy.

Deaths of 'Useless Eaters'

In 1939, the Nazi policy towards deaf and disabled people took an even more sinister and horrific turn. Hitler decided that Germany should be rid of 'useless eaters' and that deaf and disabled children should be killed. Newborn babies with physical 'defects' were removed from their mothers and killed. Children who were judged to have mental or physical disabilities were taken to special children's wards and killed by lethal injection or starvation. The parents were often informed that their children had died of natural causes. It is estimated that nearly 2000 deaf children were killed in this way.

The T4 Program

Also in 1939, Hitler agreed to the creation of the T4 Program, which targeted disabled and deaf adults living in institutional care homes. A questionnaire was filled out for each resident to indicate who should be removed to the hospital killing centres in Germany and Austria. The residents were never examined by a qualified doctor - the questionnaire was, in effect, the person's death warrant.

The Killing Centres

Smoke from the chimney at Hadamar, one of the Nazi euthanasia centres, c.1941.

People were transported to killing centres such as Hadamar, which features in this programme. They were told to undress, given a superficial medical examination and taken to the 'shower' room. Sixty people at a time were packed in. Once the doors were closed, deadly carbon monoxide gas was pumped into the room. When everyone was dead their bodies were placed on dissection tables, where gold teeth would be removed and organs taken for medical research. The corpses were burnt in a crematorium. From the outside Hadamar, with its tall chimney billowing smoke, looked like a factory. But the truth was that it had become a killing factory.

Public outcry

Even in wartime, the disappearance of so many people could not go unnoticed. Unrest among the German public grew, along with the outcry from church leaders. This led to the closure of the six killing centres. The crematorium equipment was dismantled and shipped eastwards, where staff continued to work in Polish death camps. The killing of disabled people was to be a grim rehearsal for the murder of millions of Jews throughout the war. The official closure of the killing centres did not mean that disabled people were safe. The murders continued in general hospitals, in an ad hoc way, until the end of the war - with doctors making the selections.

QUICK FACTS

Fact 1: The Nazi party created an organisation called REGEDE - the Reich Union of the Deaf in Germany. Many German deaf newspapers and social groups were abolished.

Fact 2: REGEDE was led by the Deaf Nazi Fritz Albreghs, the 'Fuhrer of the Deaf'. He used both sign and speech to get across the Nazi message.

Fact 3: A deaf storm-trooper motorcycle unit patrolled deaf neighbourhoods, violently harassing political opponents and terrorising deaf Jews.

Fact 4: In July 1933, the Nazi regime introduced a controversial new law to prevent the 'unfit' from having children by enforced sterilisation of certain defined groups, including the deaf and disabled.

Fact 5: Many Protestant church leaders with deaf congregations promoted the sterilisation legislation.

Fact 6: The leader of the women's section of REGEDE - although not hereditarily deaf - was voluntarily sterilised. She then toured Germany persuading others to follow her example.

Fact 7: It's estimated that some 17,000 deaf people were sterilised between 1933 and 1945 - the youngest was 9 years old.

Fact 8: Doctors terminated pregnancies by force if an inherited genetic condition, such as deafness, was suspected. Children with mental and physical disabilities were killed by lethal injection or starvation.

Fact 9: The T4 Program targeted disabled and deaf adults living in institutional care homes. They were taken to hospital killing centres, such as Hadamar.

Fact 10: After the war, Deaf and disabled victims of sterilisation struggled to get compensation. They never received an offer of support, counselling or pension rights.

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This article appeared on the BBC SeeHear website, but was removed in 2010. I have therefore reproduced it here, although it remains, of course, © BBC. The Aryan race: eradicating the inferior When the Nazi party came to power in Germany in 1933, they promised stability, prosperity and national renewal to a country which, since its defeat in the First World War, had suffered constant social and economic upheaval.

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"Deaf" Smith was a Texas soldier who was highly acclaimed for his heroic actions. Erastus "Deaf" Smith acquired an illness at a young age which caused him to lose his hearing (Cutrer, 2020). He was handpicked to be a spy for the Texas army (Gannon, 2011). He was able to use his hearing loss as a tool to help him be a successful soldier. His work in many Texas battles earned him the hero title all around Texas. There was a county named after him in his honor (Cutrer, 2020).

Cutrer, T. (2020, August 3). TSHA | Smith, Erastus [Deaf]. Www.tshaonline.org. https://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/entries/smith-erastus-deaf

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf Heritage. Gallaudet University Press.

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1620: Juan Pablo de Bonet Publishes First Book on Sign Language

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1620: Juan Pablo de Bonet Publishes First Book on Sign Language

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Juan Pablo was a Spanish priest who published a book on teaching sign language. Within the book it gives examples of signs and how to produce them. As well as how to teach Deaf children orally. Due to the time he lived in, he was also a believer that sign was a step towards being able to produce language orally. Most notably, the signs for the alphabet were documented in this book for the first time. His teachings had an influence on current signs and productions and were an important step for signing representation (Deaf History - Europe - Deaf Education, 1000 BC - 1700, n.d.).

Deaf History - Europe - Deaf Education, 1000 BC - 1700. (n.d.). Deafhistory.eu. https://deafhistory.eu/index.php/component/zoo/category/1000-bc-1701

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1550: Pedro Ponce de Leon; First Person to Teach the Deaf

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1550: Pedro Ponce de Leon; First Person to Teach the Deaf

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Pedro Ponce de Leon was a Spanish Benedictine monk. He is known to be the first person to ever teach the Deaf. He established a school for the Deaf at his monastery. The children were all Deaf and those of wealthy aristocrats. His form of teaching Deaf children was an early implementation of oralism. During the time, it was bold for Pedro to teach Deaf children because many people saw the Deaf as incapable of learning (Deaf History - Europe - 1520 - 1584: Pedro Ponce de León, the First Teacher of the Deaf (ES), n.d.). This was an important moment for the Deaf community because people began to acknowledge that Deaf people are capable.

Deaf History - Europe - 1520 - 1584: Pedro Ponce de León, the first teacher of the deaf (ES). (n.d.). Deafhistory.eu. https://deafhistory.eu/index.php/component/zoo/item/1550-pedro-ponce-de-leon

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1945: The founding of the American Athletic Union of the Deaf 

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1945: The founding of the American Athletic Union of the Deaf 

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The American Athletic Union of the Deaf was founded in 1945. It was founded at the first national deaf basketball tournament in Akron, Ohio (Collection: The American Athletic Association of the Deaf Clipping Collection | ArchivesSpace Public Interface, 2017). It is a non-profit organization that was established to support and promote athletic opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals in the United States (Force, 2023). The organization holds regional and national events for a range of sports, including basketball, softball, and volleyball. The AAUD also collaborates with other deaf sports organizations to advocate for the accessibility and inclusion of the deaf community in sports. The AAUD also helped support American deaf athletes at international competitions. Eventually, in 1997, the AAAD changed its name to the USA Deaf Sports Federation. Overall, the AAUD promoted deaf athletes and their athletic abilities. It showed the world that Deaf individuals could compete in competitive sports and succeed at high levels. It also strengthened the Deaf community by creating a sense of camaraderie.

Collection: The American Athletic Association of the Deaf Clipping Collection | ArchivesSpace Public Interface. (2017). Gallaudet.edu. https://gaarchives.gallaudet.edu/repositories/2/resources/229

Force, A. (2023, July 12). American Athletic Association of the Deaf (AAAD) - AccessForce. AccessForce. https://accessforce.org/glossary/american-athletic-association-of-the-deaf-aaad/

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1937: Ernest Marshall started making motion pictures with Sign Language

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1937: Ernest Marshall started making motion pictures with Sign Language

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The third-generation Deaf filmmaker, Ernest Marshall, made many productions during his career. Starting in 1937, he made the first known motion picture film that was intended for Deaf audiences to watch and understand. The films used sign language so the Deaf community could better understand. Not only did Ernest make more film available to those who cannot hear, but he was able to better connect the film industry with the Deaf community.

Ernest Marshall. (n.d.). DeafPeople.com. https://www.deafpeople.com/history/history_info/marshall.html

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1934: Deaf wrestler Everett Rattan won 109 straight matches

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1934: Deaf wrestler Everett Rattan won 109 straight matches

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The 1930s really started to show the advancement of Deaf people in Athletics. Everett Nathan Rattan was a Deaf wrestler, not being able to hear or speak. In 1923, the wrestler made his professional debut. About ten years later, the champion went on to win 109 straight matches. Everett was able to sign with his coach, who was also Deaf. This showed many people how capable Deaf people are of things that society may not see them for. As Deafness affects the body physically, many were to believe that the Deaf are ultimately worse at sports, but this could not be farther from the truth. Rattan was able to show true strength and resilience, despite not being able to hear and facing opponents who could.

Welch, E. (2024, April 1). Everett Nathan "Silent" Rattan photograph. Library of Virginia Archives. https://archives.lib.virginia.edu/repositories/3/resources/1635#

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1935 – U.S. Debuts at the International Games for the Deaf

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1935 – U.S. Debuts at the International Games for the Deaf

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The United States made its debut at the International Games for the Deaf (now Deaflympics) in 1935 which became a pivotal moment for Deaf visibility and pride worldwide. During the Great Depression when Deaf people encountered discrimination and minimal support Deaf athletes demonstrated their capabilities while disproving the false notion that Deaf individuals lacked ability. The event demonstrated the powerful dedication of the Deaf community toward inclusion and athletic achievement and international participation.

— Calvin Souder

Gannon, J. (2011). Deaf heritage: A narrative history of Deaf America. Gallaudet University Press. (From our material!!)

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George Veditz was known for capturing his sign language on film in 1913, declaring it the Preservation of Sign Language. Veditz was the valedictorian of his class and earned a Master's Degree from Gallaudet University in 1887. He was also the president of the National Association of the Deaf in 1904. He passed away at age 75 in 1937.

Source:

Gallaudet University Museum. (2014, July). George W. Veditz: Visionary Leader. https://gallaudet.edu/museum/history/george-w-veditz-visionary-leader-july-2014/

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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1930: Franklin C. Smielau Elected President of the National Deaf Association 

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1930: Franklin C. Smielau Elected President of the National Deaf Association 

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Franklin C. Smielau was born in Cincinnati, Ohio. He joined the Ohio School for the Deaf at age 10 and graduated at the age of 15 in 1897. Smielau held his position as president of the NAD from 1930-1933 and ultimately had to retire due to a physical disability caused by diabetes. He was also a star athlete at the Ohio School for the Deaf and Gallaudet University, served as an alumnus, and played an active role in the evolution of the deaf community.

Source:

Gallaudet University Library. (n.d.). Roberts, Arthur Laurence "Bobs" or "Rooster". Guide to Deaf Biographies. Retrieved June 1, 2025, from https://liblists.wrlc.org/biographies/55431

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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In 1921, Earl Hanson patented the first vacuum-tube hearing aid. In 1922, Alexander Graham Bell died. The International Committee of Silent Sports was founded by E. Rubens Alcais and Antoine Dresse in 1924. In 1928, Nellie Zabel Willhite was licensed to fly in South Dakota and was the first solo deaf pilot in the world.

Silent Word Ministries. (n.d.). Deaf history timelines. Silent Word Ministries. https://silentword.org/timelines/

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1930:The Formation of the Chicago Deaf Club 

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1930:The Formation of the Chicago Deaf Club 

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Chicago Deaf Club was established as a crucial social, cultural, and political hub for Deaf individuals in the Midwest during the Great Depression. Unlike other social clubs of the time, the Chicago Deaf Club created space for Deaf people to gather regularly, communicate freely in sign language, and organize community events. This development helped the rise of organizations like the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf and helped strengthen the collective Deaf identity during a period of widespread hardship (Van Cleve & Crouch, 1989).

Van Cleve, J. V., & Crouch, B. A. (1989). A Place of Their Own: Creating the Deaf Community in America. Gallaudet University Press.

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The International Silent Games, or Deaflympics, was held in London in 1935. These games provided a global stage for Deaf athletes.

Murray, J. J. (2025, April 11). Deaf history - Sign language, education, advocacy. Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/topic/Deaf-history

NAME: Reid Bender

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The Communications Act of 1934 was important in the Deaf community because this Act provided mandates to require telecommunications equipment and services including closed captioning. Closed captioning gave the Deaf and hard of hearing people that ability to watch TV without any sign language interpretation.

Communications act. National Association of the Deaf. (n.d.-a). https://www.nad.org/resources/civil-rights-laws/communications-act/#:~:text=The%20Communications%20Act%20of%201934,services%2C%20including%20television%20closed%20captioning.

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1930: Legacy of George Veditz Carries Into the 1930s

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1930: Legacy of George Veditz Carries Into the 1930s

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Although George Veditz passed away in 1937, his work promoting American Sign Language continued to inspire Deaf leaders during the 1930s. his famous 1913 film, "Preservation of Sign Language," became even more meaningful as the Deaf community fought for linguistic recognition.

"As long as we have deaf people on earth, we will have signs." - George Veditz

(Veditz, 1913)

Veditz, G. (1913). Preservation of Sign Language [Film]. National Association of the Deaf. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlTbj3NTLUQ

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1936: Anne Sullivan, "Teacher of Helen Keller, died October 20, 1936

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1936: Anne Sullivan, "Teacher of Helen Keller, died October 20, 1936

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Anne Sullivan was an American teacher to Helen Keller from the time she was six years old and continued to be with her at school and throughout life until her death. Anne was married for a brief time to John A. Macy who helped write Helen Keller's biography. In 1913 they separated and Anne continued with Helen Keller. They went out on tour through the American Foundation for the Deaf.

Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. (2025, April 10). Anne Sullivan. Encyclopædia Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Anne-Sullivan

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1936: The National Fraternal Society of the Deaf opens their first office amidst national economic depression

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1936: The National Fraternal Society of the Deaf opens their first office amidst national economic depression

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Meghan Sawyer

Although founded at the turn of the century, the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf (NFSD) initially began as an insurance provider for Deaf people, who were otherwise denied coverage by mainstream insurance companies. This business grew exponentially, demonstrated through "During the Great Depression, NFSD assets passed the $2 million mark and continued to climb as the Second World War began. The organization bought its first office headquarters in Illinois during the middle of the Depression, in 1936" (Burch 105). Unlike the rest of the United States, and in a rare instance, it seemed that the Deaf were better off in one financial sphere.

Source:

Burch, S. (2004). Signs of resistance: American deaf cultural history, 1900 to World War II. New York University Press.

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1932: First Deaf professional football player to play an entire season

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1932: First Deaf professional football player to play an entire season

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Bilbo "Mule" Monaghan was the first Deaf professional football player to play a full season (Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, 2018). He played for the Memphis Tigers in 1932. He did not wear a helmet during his time with the team. However, he was very helpful in returning long interceptions (Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame, 2018). This was a prominent time for the Deaf community because there was representation in professional sports.

Bilbo Monaghan - Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. (2018, December 5). Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. https://msfame.com/inductees/bilbo-monaghan/

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1935: The United States entered their first International Games for the Deaf

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1935: The United States entered their first International Games for the Deaf

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The International Games for the Deaf, or Deaflympics, is a tournament of Deaf athletes across the world. All countries are invited to participate. The United States first participated in 1935, they were the first non-European country to enter the games (Ammons, 2008). The International Games for the Deaf offer an opportunity to Deaf athletes to showcase their talents. The Deaflympics vary from other Olympic games because they are ran by the community they are serving (Ammons, 2008). This means that all administrators, judges, and teammates are Deaf.

Deaf Sports & Deaflympics The International Olympic Committee Prepared by Dr. Donalda K. Ammons President International Committee of Sports for the Deaf. (2008). https://www.jfd.or.jp/sc/files/deaflympics/resources/presrep-e.pdf

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In April 1977, Deaf activists participated in the historic Section 504 Sit-In, a 28-day occupation of a federal building in San Francisco. This protest demanded the implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination based on disability in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. The success of this protest led to the signing of regulations that enforced accessibility and equal rights for individuals with disabilities, including Deaf people. This event became a defining moment in Deaf civil rights history, showing the power of organized advocacy and intersectional activism (National Association of the Deaf).

Reference:

National Association of the Deaf . Rehabilitation Act of 1973. https://www.nad.org/resources/civil-rights-laws/rehabilitation-act-of-1973/

Myrakle Johnson

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1920: Deafness Declared a Public Health Concern

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1920: Deafness Declared a Public Health Concern

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In the early 1920s, Deafness began to be viewed as a public health issue, not just as an individual medical condition. Public health campaigns focused on preventing Deafness rather than supporting Deaf culture.

This contributed to the stigmatization of Deaf individuals, portraying Deafness as something to be fixed or avoided.

Schweik, S.M. (2021). Deafness as a public health issue in the 1920s and 1930s.

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1915: Deaf Americans contribute to war effort

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1915: Deaf Americans contribute to war effort

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Between the years of 1914 and 1918, Deaf people contributed to the war effort through working in factories and organized supplies for those in need. Although Deaf people could not serve in the military, many participated in volunteer work and blood drives. Their contributions through industrial and factory work, paired with volunteer work, contributed greatly to helping the country stay afloat.

History Through Deaf Eyes – War Effort Contributions. Gallaudet University. (2022, August 24). https://gallaudet.edu/museum/exhibits/history-through-deaf-eyes/community-building/since-deaf-people-werent-allowed-to-serve-in-the-military-they-contributed-to-the-war-effort-from-home/

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1924: Hendrika Nicoline Van Der Heyden Only Woman to Compete in the 1924 Deaflympics

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1924: Hendrika Nicoline Van Der Heyden Only Woman to Compete in the 1924 Deaflympics

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Hendrika Nicoline Van Der Heyden was the only woman to compete in the 1924 Deaflympics. She competed alone in a 100 meter back stroke and won with a time of 2:03.6. This was also a world record.

Sources:

sharrison64. (2014, March 8). Celebrating women in deaf sport. Two Big Ears. https://big-ears.org/2014/03/08/celebrating-women-in-deaf-sport/

International Committee of Sports for the Deaf. (n.d.). Hendrika Nicoline van der Heyden. Deaflympics. Retrieved May 29, 2025, from https://www.deaflympics.com/athletes/hendrika-van-der-heyden

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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1929: The Silent Worker Temporarily Stops Publications 

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1929: The Silent Worker Temporarily Stops Publications 

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The Silent Worker was a newspaper that promoted deaf culture, sign language, and deaf achievements. In 1929 the Great Depression hit, ultimately cutting the budgets and forcing the newspaper to stop publications until beginning again in 1948.

Source: Gallaudet University. (n.d.). The Silent Worker. Retrieved May 29, 2025, from https://ida.gallaudet.edu/silent-worker/

By: Ashleigh Benedum

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1927: The New York League for the Hard of Hearing tests for hearing in schools

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1927: The New York League for the Hard of Hearing tests for hearing in schools

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Meghan Sawyer

The New York League for the Hard of Hearing, established in 1910, was shifting the narrative around Deafness as it being a handicap (as it was seen more so as an issue of education or communication at the time). Part of their mission was identifying Deafness, specifically when in 1927, they purchased audiometers and offered "invitations to conduct earing tests in schools across New York, so children with hearing impairment could be assessed accordingly" (Virdi-Dhesi). Whether or not the opinions of the League were correct, it is undeniable that their acts of raising awareness for Deafness would have been beneficial to Deaf children in receiving the proper communication and support they need.

Source:

Virdi-Dhesi, J. (2016, June 29). Deafness as a public health issue in the 1920s & 1930s (part 1 of 2). Books, Health and History. https://nyamcenterforhistory.org/2016/06/29/deafness-as-a-public-health-issue-in-the-1920s-1930s-part-1-of-2/

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1921: Vacuum Tube Hearing Aid was invented and released to market

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1921: Vacuum Tube Hearing Aid was invented and released to market

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First patented in 1920, Earl C. Hanson rolled out a new type of hearing aid to the public. This piece of early hearing technology used amplification of sound via electricity to help individuals with hearing loss hear more. In its introduction, the cost of the product was $135.00. This hearing aid can be believed to help the development of future hearing aids, as advancements in technology are known to lead to more advancement. Hanson's invention was able to allow some Deaf individuals to understand oralism more effectively, especially with the creation taking place about four decades after the Milan Conference. As great as this sounds, it is possible that the Vactuphone could have made more of a push in education for the favor of oralism, now that some Deaf people could read lips or hear better. This was not good as many Deaf people do not prefer oralism and even if they wanted to, not everyone could afford the technology.

Hearing Aid Museum. (n.d.). Vactuphone Vacuum Tube Hearing Aid. Hearing Aid Museum. https://www.hearingaidmuseum.com/gallery/Vacuum%20Tube/OtherMakes/info/vactuphone.htm

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Nellie Zabel Willhite Becomes the First Deaf Female Pilot (1928)

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Nellie Zabel Willhite Becomes the First Deaf Female Pilot (1928)

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In 1928, Nellie Zabel Willhite became the first Deaf female pilot in the United States, and possibly the world. Born in 1892 in South Dakota and deafened by illness at age two, she defied expectations by earning her pilot's license during a time when both women and Deaf individuals faced significant societal barriers. Willhite joined the Ninety-Nines, an international organization of women pilots, and used her visibility to promote independence and capability among Deaf people. Her achievement reflected a broader shift during the interwar period when Deaf Americans increasingly challenged stereotypes and asserted themselves in public life.

Contributed by Calvin Souder South Dakota Historical Society Foundation. (2021, May). South Dakota's first female pilot, Nellie Zabel Willhite. https://www.sdhsf.org/news_events/history_articles.html/title/may-2021-south-dakota-s-first-female-pilot-nellie-zabel-willhite

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1921: Rolf Harmsen earns first state title as a Deaf track athlete

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1921: Rolf Harmsen earns first state title as a Deaf track athlete

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Rolf Harmsen was a deaf student in the early 1920s, attending Devils Lake School for the Deaf. His junior year of high school, the young athlete made history not only for himself, but for the Deaf community. Harmsen was a great runner, but disadvantaged as he was not able to hear the gun shoot off (signaling when the runners can start). This caused him a delay, but Harmsen won state title despite this obstacle. This showed the strength Deaf people empower, that deafness is not a handicap but something to be proud of. This triumph helped break down the beliefs that society had of Deaf people's limitations.

Sandstrom, T. (2022 May 18). The Sensational Rolf Harmsen. Prairie Public NewsRoom. https://news.prairiepublic.org/show/dakota-datebook-archive/2022-05-18/the-sensational-rolf-harmsen

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In 1907, Bell wanted to prohibit intermarriage among Deaf people. In 1910, President Taft removed all discriminatory barriers to Deaf people in federal jobs. In 1915, Congress passed a bill to create a bureau for the deaf in the Department of Labor. In 1920, deaf people were allowed to sign again. Some states were banning driver's licenses to deaf drivers, while some were only restricting them. The federal government is trying to find a solution.

National Association of the Deaf. (n.d.). NAD history. Retrieved May 29, 2025, from https://www.nad.org/about-us/nad-history/

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In 1926 a campaign called "Better Hearing Week" was launched. Nowadays, this week is known as National Hearing Week (nyamhistofmed, 2016). This week was initially started to "inform" people the problems that hearing loss bring. This was impacted the Deaf community very negatively. Physicians would advertise how better of a livelihood Deaf and HOH people would have if they sought out treatment (nyamhistofmed, 2016). Hearing aids were also in the early stages of development, so they were viewed as a solution to any form of hearing loss. However, this is simply not true or attainable for many Deaf people.

nyamhistofmed. (2016, June 29). Deafness as a Public Health Issue in the 1920s & 1930s (Part 1 of 2). Books, Health and History. https://nyamcenterforhistory.org/2016/06/29/deafness-as-a-public-health-issue-in-the-1920s-1930s-part-1-of-2/

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From 1893-1929 silent films were extremely popular (Schuchman, 2004). One main reason that silent films were so highly regarded was because they were particularly accessible. Deaf and hearing people could watch and enjoy these films in the same way. This brought a form of unison and connection amongst both communities. This also sparked an increase in Deaf film-makers (Schuchman, 2004). Silent films that incorporated ASL were then being made and viewed by the Deaf community.

Schuchman, J. (2004). The Silent Film Era: Silent Films, NAD Films, and the Deaf Community's Response. Gallaudet University Press.

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1945 - Founding of the American Athletic Association of the Deaf (AAAD)

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1945 - Founding of the American Athletic Association of the Deaf (AAAD)

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In April 1945, the American Athletic Association of the Deaf (AAAD) was established during a meeting in Akron, Ohio. This organization was created to promote athletic contests among Deaf clubs, with basketball as its primary focus. The AAAD aimed to foster uniform rules for athletic competition, establish championship regulations, and serve as a parent organization for regional athletics. The inaugural national basketball tournament was held the following day, featuring teams from Los Angeles, Kansas City, Buffalo, Philadelphia, and Akron. This event marked a pivotal moment in Deaf sports history, providing a platform for Deaf athletes to showcase their talents and build a sense of community. In 1965, the AAAD hosted the World Games of the Deaf for the first time on U.S. soil, further solidifying its role in the international Deaf sports arena. The organization eventually evolved into the United States of America Deaf Basketball (USADB), continuing its mission to serve Deaf and Hard of Hearing athletes through organized sports activities (United States of America Deaf Basketball).

United States of America Deaf Basketball. The AAAD-USADB Story. Retrieved May 29, 2025, from https://usadb.us/hoops/about-us/history/

Myrakle Johnson

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The AAAD-USADB Story – United States of America Deaf Basketball

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Thomas W. Elliott & Art Kruger
Co-Founders of AAAD
A Deaf American Monograph, 1996
by Ira Lerner

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1925 - National Fraternal Society of the Deaf Hosts Its First National Convention

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1925 - National Fraternal Society of the Deaf Hosts Its First National Convention

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In 1925, the NFSD held its first national convention. This event marked a significant step in unifying Deaf Americans and strengthening a national Deaf identity during a time when oralism was still dominant in education.

Becker, J. C. (2012). History of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf. Utah Deaf History. Retrieved from https://www.utahdeafhistory.com/history-of-the-national-fraternal-8203society-of-the-deaf.htm

NAME: Reid Bender

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1928 - Nellie Zabel Willhite Becomes the First Deaf Female Pilot

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1928 - Nellie Zabel Willhite Becomes the First Deaf Female Pilot

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In 1928, Nellie Zabel Willhite made history as the first Deaf woman to earn a pilot’s license in the United States—possibly the world. Despite being discouraged due to her deafness, Willhite became a licensed pilot and flew in several air races. Her achievements challenged stereotypes about the limitations of Deaf people and opened pathways for future Deaf professionals in aviation.

South Dakota Historical Society Foundation. (n.d.). Nellie Zabel Willhite: South Dakota’s First Woman Pilot. Retrieved from https://www.sdhsf.org/news-events/newsroom.html/article/2019/03/01/nellie-zabel-willhite-south-dakota-s-first-woman-pilot

Margaret Dull