Films Created by the
ASL Community in Utah
ASL Community in Utah
Compiled & Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2013
Updated in 2025
Published in 2013
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
As the author of this history website, I hope you will enjoy watching the films provided below to gain a deeper understanding of the extensive history of the Deaf community in Utah. I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to those individuals who filmed and participated in the videos for the purpose of preserving and remembering the past.
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Twenty-Five Years of the Utah School
for the Deaf: 1940-1965
Filmed & Produced by Kenneth C. Burdett
for the Deaf: 1940-1965
Filmed & Produced by Kenneth C. Burdett
The Utah Association for the Deaf held its 33rd Biennial Convention in 1989, which was a critical event in the association's history. A notable part of the convention was showing a 16mm film titled "25 Years of the Utah School for the Deaf: 1940-1965." This valuable historical film, created by Kenneth C. Burdett, a 1929 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf and a teacher there, vividly portrays the experiences of Deaf students on the residential campus in Ogden over several decades. It showcases class trips, graduations, and other important campus events. This film marked a significant moment in the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf, underscoring the importance of preserving the legacy of the Utah School for the Deaf for future generations.
Kenneth's film is more than just a historical record; it is a living testament to the shared history of the Utah Deaf community. The film vividly brings to life the community's unique and rich heritage, fostering a deep sense of connection, pride, and appreciation in the audience. It is a powerful tool for the community to celebrate their past, acknowledge the challenges they have overcome, and look forward to a brighter future.
Kenneth's film is more than just a historical record; it is a living testament to the shared history of the Utah Deaf community. The film vividly brings to life the community's unique and rich heritage, fostering a deep sense of connection, pride, and appreciation in the audience. It is a powerful tool for the community to celebrate their past, acknowledge the challenges they have overcome, and look forward to a brighter future.
Kenneth C. Burdett
In 1990, W. David Mortensen, also known as Dave, then President of the Utah Association for the Deaf and a 1949 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, shared his article in the UAD Bulletin of June 1990. He shared his fond memories and benefits of attending a school that inclusively served the needs of Deaf students. He believed that sending a Deaf child to such a school never harmed them and provided them with education, socialization, leadership training, discipline, drama, dance, public speaking, sports, entertainment, and more. Those were very, very happy times, he said. Dave acknowledged that times have changed and questioned if they have changed for the better or worse. He disagreed that mainstreaming was the answer despite it being considered a trend in modern times. He suggested that people speak to those who have spent time away from home at a Deaf school and ask if they felt it was a mistake. Dave asked, "Have times changed for the better or worse?" and "Is mainstreaming the answer?" He answered that he believed it was not the solution. He emphasized the crucial importance of consulting with Deaf residential school alums before making the school placement decision (Mortensen, UAD Bulletin, June 1990, p. 1). The sentiments expressed by the attendees were diverse, reflecting a range of perspectives on the past, present, and future of Deaf education.
W. David Mortensen
Utah Association for the Deaf President W. David Mortensen's President's Message. UAD Bulletin, June 1990, p. 1
After the Utah School for the Deaf's 1976 reunion, the Utah Association of the Deaf acquired Kenneth's old films. Kenneth carefully preserved these films, originally in 16 mm format, over the years. The association initiated a project to convert these films to video to ensure their long-term preservation and accessibility. The Utah Association for the Deaf considers these films a vital part of the history of the Utah School for the Deaf, as mentioned in the UAD Bulletin in June 1990 and September 1996.
As the author of this website, Kenneth C. Burdett's film will provide you with a deeper understanding of life on our school campus. I assure you that it was even more enjoyable than you imagined.
As the author of this website, Kenneth C. Burdett's film will provide you with a deeper understanding of life on our school campus. I assure you that it was even more enjoyable than you imagined.
"The Ring" Film By Keith E. Stewart, 1969
Keith E. Stewart, a 1956 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, began a unique journey in the 1960s. He bought a Bolex Super 8mm camera and took on the challenge of mastering its use. His determination led to the creation of his first film, 'The Ring,' which was shot in the basement of his home. This movie offered a rare and intimate portrayal of the Deaf community, featuring Georgie Stewart (mother), Wayne Stewart (father), Sheelan Stewart (daughter), Lloyd DeGraw (friend), and Diane Quinn Williams (former wife) as performers and actresses.
Before creating his film, Keith had participated in a play for the Utah Association for the Deaf's Night Drama. However, he chose to present a sign language film at the UAD Night Drama in October 1969, a decision that distinguished him from others. Among ten teams, he was the only one to present a sign language film, a bold and innovative move that earned him first place. Keith's groundbreaking efforts to promote sign language films deserve our appreciation.
The actors and actresses in the film used "English" sign language, which is a significant detail that places the film in a historical context before the late 1970s, when American Sign Language gradually gained popularity in the Deaf community. Keith's film provides a valuable connection to the past, helping us comprehend the history of sign language in the Deaf community.
Before creating his film, Keith had participated in a play for the Utah Association for the Deaf's Night Drama. However, he chose to present a sign language film at the UAD Night Drama in October 1969, a decision that distinguished him from others. Among ten teams, he was the only one to present a sign language film, a bold and innovative move that earned him first place. Keith's groundbreaking efforts to promote sign language films deserve our appreciation.
The actors and actresses in the film used "English" sign language, which is a significant detail that places the film in a historical context before the late 1970s, when American Sign Language gradually gained popularity in the Deaf community. Keith's film provides a valuable connection to the past, helping us comprehend the history of sign language in the Deaf community.
Keith E. Stewart with his award, 1969
Here is a summary of Deaf director Keith Stewart's film, 'The Ring'. The film offers a unique perspective on the Deaf community, a perspective deeply rooted in Keith's family history. Both of Keith's parents, Wayne and Georgie Stewart, were Deaf. Wayne attended the Utah School for the Deaf in 1930, while Georgie Mae enrolled at the age of 13 and stayed until she turned 18. She then left school to marry Wayne. Keith's younger sister, Darlene Cochran, who was married to C. Roy Cochran, was also Deaf and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1962. Keith's brother, Gene, is the only hearing child in the family. He was previously the director of the Utah Community Center for the Deaf, as well as a vocational rehabilitation counselor for the deaf. Keith's daughter, Sari, is also Deaf and graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1984. She is the only Deaf daughter of one of six siblings. It's important to note that Keith's film 'The Ring' does not include captions. We hope you enjoy the film.
Rodney Wilson Walker's Life, 2006:
Filmed and Produced by Bobby Giles
Filmed and Produced by Bobby Giles
Bobby Giles, a 1983 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, along with his team at Eye-Sign Media, LLC, which includes Julio Diaz Jr. and Jim Harper, produced a film in 2006 about Rodney Wilson Walker, a prominent leader of the Deaf community in Utah. The same year, Rodney Wilson Walker shared his life story with the Utah Deaf community through a compelling book, providing a deeper understanding of his journey and contributions.
Rodney Wilson Walker began his journey on February 23, 1914. At the age of six, he started his education at the Utah School for the Deaf and graduated in 1933. During his time at Gallaudet, he actively participated in various activities, such as Kappa Gamma Fraternity, football, basketball, and track teams, the Kappa Gamma Fraternity Dance, and the Football Homecoming Dance. He graduated from Gallaudet College in 1939, marking the start of his impactful career.
After graduating from Gallaudet College, Rodney Wilson Walker made a significant decision to return to his roots in Utah. His leadership in the Utah Deaf community was multifaceted and impressive. He was the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, a delegate to the National Association of the Deaf, president of the Utah Athletic Club of the Deaf, president of the Northwest Athletic Association of the Deaf, and national chairman of the American Athletic Association of the Deaf basketball tournament in Salt Lake City. He was also a member of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf Salt Lake City Division No. 56, the United Utah Organizations of the Deaf, and the Gallaudet University Alumni Association's Beehive Chapter.
Rodney Wilson Walker began his journey on February 23, 1914. At the age of six, he started his education at the Utah School for the Deaf and graduated in 1933. During his time at Gallaudet, he actively participated in various activities, such as Kappa Gamma Fraternity, football, basketball, and track teams, the Kappa Gamma Fraternity Dance, and the Football Homecoming Dance. He graduated from Gallaudet College in 1939, marking the start of his impactful career.
After graduating from Gallaudet College, Rodney Wilson Walker made a significant decision to return to his roots in Utah. His leadership in the Utah Deaf community was multifaceted and impressive. He was the president of the Utah Association of the Deaf, a delegate to the National Association of the Deaf, president of the Utah Athletic Club of the Deaf, president of the Northwest Athletic Association of the Deaf, and national chairman of the American Athletic Association of the Deaf basketball tournament in Salt Lake City. He was also a member of the National Fraternal Society of the Deaf Salt Lake City Division No. 56, the United Utah Organizations of the Deaf, and the Gallaudet University Alumni Association's Beehive Chapter.
Rodney Wilson Walker
Rodney was a prominent figure in the Utah Deaf community and also served as a spiritual leader. As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he held the position of bishop at the Salt Lake Valley Ward in Salt Lake City, Utah. In 1998, at the age of 84, he accomplished a significant milestone by becoming the first Deaf temple sealer. His faith and leadership were a testament to his strength and determination. Rodney, a descendant of Utah pioneers, lived a long and prosperous life, passing away at the age of 93 in 2007.
Rodney achieved numerous accomplishments, but his personal qualities truly set him apart. A video honoring Rodney showcased his childhood photographs, providing a glimpse into his early life. Bobby Giles' assistant, Sandra Link, interviewed him, capturing his warmth and humility. During a ceremony, C. Roy Cochran and Ronald C. Burdett shared stories about Rodney's accomplishments, highlighting his dedication and service. Rodney lived a long and prosperous life, passing away at the age of 93 on August 2, 2007. He was a man to admire and love, achieving much without complaint and continually working, giving, and serving.
Rodney achieved numerous accomplishments, but his personal qualities truly set him apart. A video honoring Rodney showcased his childhood photographs, providing a glimpse into his early life. Bobby Giles' assistant, Sandra Link, interviewed him, capturing his warmth and humility. During a ceremony, C. Roy Cochran and Ronald C. Burdett shared stories about Rodney's accomplishments, highlighting his dedication and service. Rodney lived a long and prosperous life, passing away at the age of 93 on August 2, 2007. He was a man to admire and love, achieving much without complaint and continually working, giving, and serving.
Jean Greenwood Thomas'
Fascinating Family History in Utah
Fascinating Family History in Utah
John Wallace McMills
Jean Greenwood Thomas has a fascinating family history in Utah, as well as a strong connection with the Utah Deaf community. She is a pioneer interpreter, an American Sign Language teacher, and a Child of Deaf Adults (CODA). Her father, Virgil Rogers Greenwood, was Deaf, and her mother, Lucy Pearl McMills, was also a CODA. Lucy's parents, John Wallace McMillis and Pearl Ault, were both Deaf, and her older sister, Eva Alice Prudence Fowler was also a CODA.
Jean's father, Virgil, had several Deaf siblings. Virgil was the oldest of five children born to Ruben P. and Ethel M. Rogers Greenwood. The Deaf siblings were Bert, Stewart, and Gloria. The fourth son, Arden, could hear and attended a public school. Most of Jean's Deaf family members attended the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. Her father, Virgil, played basketball for the Utah School for the Deaf.
In 1888, at the age of six, Jean's grandfather, John Wallace McMills entered the Utah School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Utah. He learned various trades at the school, excelling in horseshoeing, harness repair, and fabrication. Shoemaking became his lifelong occupation. When his father's health deteriorated, John left school to become the primary breadwinner for the McMills family, as his mother relied on him for a steady income.
John's dedication to his family was unwavering, leading him to open his first shoemaking and repair shop in Tooele, Utah, at the age of 19, in 1902. In 1903 or 1904, he moved his business to Mercur, Utah, to support his family. After marrying Pearl Ault in 1910, he opened a new shop in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1926 and later relocated to San Francisco, California, to run his shoemaking business.
Due to Pearl's health issues, he and their two daughters, Eva and Lucy, moved back to Utah to run his last business, J.W. McMills Shoe Repairing Co., located at 267 E. 5th South in Salt Lake City, Utah. John's strong family values were evident in his unwavering commitment to his family. John was well-known in the local business community, and the Utah Deaf community respected him and frequently sought his advice. After working for fifty years, he retired and sold his business in 1952. In 1916, John Wallace McMills was one of the founding members of Salt Lake City Division No. 56, an insurance company.
Thank you to Jean for sharing her family history with us!
Jean's father, Virgil, had several Deaf siblings. Virgil was the oldest of five children born to Ruben P. and Ethel M. Rogers Greenwood. The Deaf siblings were Bert, Stewart, and Gloria. The fourth son, Arden, could hear and attended a public school. Most of Jean's Deaf family members attended the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah. Her father, Virgil, played basketball for the Utah School for the Deaf.
In 1888, at the age of six, Jean's grandfather, John Wallace McMills entered the Utah School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Utah. He learned various trades at the school, excelling in horseshoeing, harness repair, and fabrication. Shoemaking became his lifelong occupation. When his father's health deteriorated, John left school to become the primary breadwinner for the McMills family, as his mother relied on him for a steady income.
John's dedication to his family was unwavering, leading him to open his first shoemaking and repair shop in Tooele, Utah, at the age of 19, in 1902. In 1903 or 1904, he moved his business to Mercur, Utah, to support his family. After marrying Pearl Ault in 1910, he opened a new shop in Salt Lake City, Utah, in 1926 and later relocated to San Francisco, California, to run his shoemaking business.
Due to Pearl's health issues, he and their two daughters, Eva and Lucy, moved back to Utah to run his last business, J.W. McMills Shoe Repairing Co., located at 267 E. 5th South in Salt Lake City, Utah. John's strong family values were evident in his unwavering commitment to his family. John was well-known in the local business community, and the Utah Deaf community respected him and frequently sought his advice. After working for fifty years, he retired and sold his business in 1952. In 1916, John Wallace McMills was one of the founding members of Salt Lake City Division No. 56, an insurance company.
Thank you to Jean for sharing her family history with us!
