History of the Vocational Education Programs at the Utah School for the Deaf
Compiled & Written by Jodi Becker Kinner
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney
Published in 2013
Updated in 2024
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney
Published in 2013
Updated in 2024
Author's Note
Since its inception in 1884, the Utah School for the Deaf has been a pioneer in introducing vocational education programs. These initiatives have been instrumental in equipping Deaf and hard of hearing students with the skills and trades necessary for a successful vocational career after graduation.
As a writer for a history website, I am fully aware of how societal norms and expectations can hinder people's success. One such norm is for women to include their accomplishments under their spouse's last name. I'd like to address this by writing first names for men, women, and gender identity. This small but significant change reflects my intention to recognize all individuals who contribute to and advocate for our community's causes equally.
The organization, previously known as the Utah Association for the Deaf, has changed its name to the Utah Association of the Deaf. We changed the name to "of" instead of "for" to avoid confusion. The association, known as the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1962, changed its name to the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1963. Finally, in 2012, the association reverted to its original name, the Utah Association of the Deaf. We used both "of" and "for" to reflect the different eras in the association's history.
Thanks for taking an interest in reading the 'History of the Vocational Education Programs at the Utah School for the Deaf' webpage.
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
As a writer for a history website, I am fully aware of how societal norms and expectations can hinder people's success. One such norm is for women to include their accomplishments under their spouse's last name. I'd like to address this by writing first names for men, women, and gender identity. This small but significant change reflects my intention to recognize all individuals who contribute to and advocate for our community's causes equally.
The organization, previously known as the Utah Association for the Deaf, has changed its name to the Utah Association of the Deaf. We changed the name to "of" instead of "for" to avoid confusion. The association, known as the Utah Association of the Deaf from 1909 to 1962, changed its name to the Utah Association for the Deaf in 1963. Finally, in 2012, the association reverted to its original name, the Utah Association of the Deaf. We used both "of" and "for" to reflect the different eras in the association's history.
Thanks for taking an interest in reading the 'History of the Vocational Education Programs at the Utah School for the Deaf' webpage.
Enjoy!
Jodi Becker Kinner
The Introduction of the
Vocational Education Programs
at the Utah School for the Deaf
Vocational Education Programs
at the Utah School for the Deaf
In 1889, the Utah School for the Deaf (USD) in Salt Lake City, Utah, introduced a vocational education program that included carpentry, shoe repair, printing, cooking, sewing, etc. This program aimed to equip Deaf and hard of hearing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to society through various trades and skills.
In addition to the vocational education program, students at the Utah School for the Deaf received a comprehensive education. They studied subjects such as arithmetic, advanced mathematics, physics, geography, history, art, and English. The school also provided opportunities for students to choose occupational training at no additional cost while pursuing their academic studies, demonstrating its dedication to a well-rounded education (Roberts, 1994).
In addition to the vocational education program, students at the Utah School for the Deaf received a comprehensive education. They studied subjects such as arithmetic, advanced mathematics, physics, geography, history, art, and English. The school also provided opportunities for students to choose occupational training at no additional cost while pursuing their academic studies, demonstrating its dedication to a well-rounded education (Roberts, 1994).
Vocational Education Program Provides
Transition From Vocational Paths to Work
Transition From Vocational Paths to Work
The early students at the Utah School for the Deaf had parents from diverse occupations. The parents of rural students mostly worked on farms or ranches (Roberts, 1994). For example, John Beck, co-founder of the Utah School for the Deaf in 1884 and father of three Deaf sons, owned the Bullion-Beck Mine and Beck's Hot Springs. The most common occupations among students' fathers were farming, shoemaking, carpentry, and labor (Evans, 1999). Some of their parents worked as butchers, merchants, accountants, mechanical engineers, county recorders, dentists, surveyors, candy makers, eye specialists, and postmasters (Evans, 1999).
The situation for Deaf individuals seeking employment was once challenging. Many followed their parents' career paths, while others pursued different fields. However, things were changing. The Utah School for the Deaf began offering vocational education programs that equipped students with marketable skills and empowered them to transition from vocational to work-related coursework. This training helped students achieve self-sufficiency, opening up more job opportunities for them after graduation. While many students chose to specialize in a particular field, they didn't always end up working in that specific area they studied for (Robert, 1994).
After graduating from high school, many young men and women choose to live and work in the metropolitan districts of Salt Lake City or Ogden. These areas, with their large Deaf communities, provide a sense of belonging and understanding that is often lacking in the isolation of a small town in Utah with few other Deaf people (Roberts, 1994).
After graduating from high school, many young men and women choose to live and work in the metropolitan districts of Salt Lake City or Ogden. These areas, with their large Deaf communities, provide a sense of belonging and understanding that is often lacking in the isolation of a small town in Utah with few other Deaf people (Roberts, 1994).
Did You Know?
"For a young school ours had a right to feel proud of its graduates, all of whom were respectable, industrious, and self-supporting citizens. We had among nineteen graduates, one surveyor, one teacher, two instructors, one photographer, four farmers, three housewives, two carpenters, one printer, one student, and three laborers." ***** Utah Eagle (The Silent Worker, June 1906).
The Expansion of the
Vocational Education Program for Boys
Vocational Education Program for Boys
The Utah School for the Deaf introduced vocational education classes in 1889. The program initially offered printing, shoemaking, and carpentry classes specifically designed for boys. Over time, the program expanded to include farming, gardening, blacksmithing, painting, and barbering (Roberts, 1994).
In the early 1900s, additional classes such as leather crafts, mechanical drawing, upholstering, and photography were added. Vocational education options were available for boys in the first six grades, with the opportunity to specialize in one subject during the final four years of high school. Graduates experienced low unemployment rates (Utah School for the Deaf Program Book, 1960s).
In the early 1900s, additional classes such as leather crafts, mechanical drawing, upholstering, and photography were added. Vocational education options were available for boys in the first six grades, with the opportunity to specialize in one subject during the final four years of high school. Graduates experienced low unemployment rates (Utah School for the Deaf Program Book, 1960s).
Printing
Printing was one of the most popular vocations at the Utah School for the Deaf, perhaps due to the loudness of operating the press (Roberts, 1994). The printing department issued the school newspapers known as the "Deseret Eagle," "Eaglet," and "Utah Eagle" school newspapers (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897). The printing department also printed other documentation for the school administration and the Utah Association of the Deaf
On October 10, 1889, "The Deseret Eagle," a small publication, released its first issue. The printing department published a paper every two weeks until 1894, when it ceased. Printing students also created, edited, and published the second paper, "The Eaglet," from 1894 to 1899. Before the "Utah Eagle" emerged on March 1, 1897, the "Deseret Eagle" ran for three years. The word "Utah" replaced "Deseret" in this publication soon after Utah became a state in 1896. The early pioneers who came to the state called it "Deseret," which means "industry" in the Book of Mormon. Since then, the superintendent and his staff have edited "The Utah Eagle," which served as the school's official magazine. During the school year, the publication changed to once a month. These magazines provided the Utah Deaf community with recent events that were important to them. They also contained daily updates on student activities, staff members, student and family information, and news from other Deaf organizations and schools (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897; Pace, 1946; Roberts, 1994; Utah School for the Deaf Program Book, 1960s).
Harry Sanger Smith, Known as “Bob White”
In The Silent Worker Magazine
In The Silent Worker Magazine
Harry Sanger Smith was the first printing and linotyping instructor at the Utah School for the Deaf. Harry was born in Rosemount, New Jersey, on July 12, 1877. He lost his hearing when he was 12 years old due to cerebrospinal meningitis and pneumonia.
After losing his hearing, he enrolled in the New Jersey School for the Deaf because he couldn't finish his education in a regular school (The Silent Worker, September 1900). As an exceptionally bright student, Mr. Porter assigned him to the printing office, where he learned basic typesetting and presswork. Harry initially objected, arguing that he had to master the entire type case before setting the type. He said that where he lived, he "constructed pig pens for a dollar a day." Mr. Porter persuaded him that he could make more money if he learned to print. As a result, he decided to stay (The Silent Worker, April 1925).
Harry got a printing job in Trenton, New Jersey, right after graduating from the New Jersey School for the Deaf, where he worked for five years. 'The perfection of his typographical executions caught the attention of printers at the printing job,' he said. He joined the Typographical Union and spent his spare time printing, hunting, and fishing (The Silent Worker, April 1925). He loved being outside.
By this time, Harry had become tired of his job and relocated to New Hope, Pennsylvania, to take over the management of a country weekly. Two months later, Harry accepted a job as an advertising composer at one of Philadelphia's most prominent establishments. The office employed roughly 200 employees and had seventeen cylinder presses, nine linotypes, its own lighting facility, an electrotype foundry, and an ink factory (The Silent Worker, September 1900).
He moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, due to his passion for the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting. He combined printing with camping, hunting, trapping, fishing, and penning adventure stories for magazines such as The Silent Worker (The Silent Worker, April 1925). He published several articles in the Silent Worker magazine, including "Bob White" (The Silent Worker, September 1900). In 1920, Harry traveled through Utah's Ogden Canyon in his Deaf friend Paul Mark's Peerless car with National Fraternal Society of the Deaf President H.C. Anderson (The Silent Worker, November 1920).
After losing his hearing, he enrolled in the New Jersey School for the Deaf because he couldn't finish his education in a regular school (The Silent Worker, September 1900). As an exceptionally bright student, Mr. Porter assigned him to the printing office, where he learned basic typesetting and presswork. Harry initially objected, arguing that he had to master the entire type case before setting the type. He said that where he lived, he "constructed pig pens for a dollar a day." Mr. Porter persuaded him that he could make more money if he learned to print. As a result, he decided to stay (The Silent Worker, April 1925).
Harry got a printing job in Trenton, New Jersey, right after graduating from the New Jersey School for the Deaf, where he worked for five years. 'The perfection of his typographical executions caught the attention of printers at the printing job,' he said. He joined the Typographical Union and spent his spare time printing, hunting, and fishing (The Silent Worker, April 1925). He loved being outside.
By this time, Harry had become tired of his job and relocated to New Hope, Pennsylvania, to take over the management of a country weekly. Two months later, Harry accepted a job as an advertising composer at one of Philadelphia's most prominent establishments. The office employed roughly 200 employees and had seventeen cylinder presses, nine linotypes, its own lighting facility, an electrotype foundry, and an ink factory (The Silent Worker, September 1900).
He moved to Colorado Springs, Colorado, due to his passion for the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting. He combined printing with camping, hunting, trapping, fishing, and penning adventure stories for magazines such as The Silent Worker (The Silent Worker, April 1925). He published several articles in the Silent Worker magazine, including "Bob White" (The Silent Worker, September 1900). In 1920, Harry traveled through Utah's Ogden Canyon in his Deaf friend Paul Mark's Peerless car with National Fraternal Society of the Deaf President H.C. Anderson (The Silent Worker, November 1920).
In 1923, the union went on strike. As a supporter of unionism, Harry walked out with the strikers. Tired of the long strike, the Utah School for the Deaf persuaded him to accept a position as their school's printing and linotyping instructor. Harry accepted and relocated to Ogden, Utah, where he started a position with one of the best printing offices in the West (The Silent Worker, April 1925). He enhanced the standard of printing the "Utah Eagle" magazine and "making it one of the very best from a typographical standpoint" during his brief effort (The Silent Worker, May 1924). The superintendent of USDB, Frank M. Driggs, commended Harry's artistic talent. "Never in the history of printing has a printer been so splendid, so thorough, and so concerned with his work and his printer boys," he stated. In the shop, he [Harry] held them and had a splendid influence over them" (The Silent Worker, May 1925).
Harry earned a reputation as a competent printer. The Chairman of the Industrial Section chose Harry in the summer of 1925 to present a paper at the convention of Principals and Superintendents of the Deaf in Cincinnati, Ohio. However, on March 2 of that year, Harry died suddenly of acute gastritis and was buried in the Ogden City Cemetery, about a block from the school gate (The Silent Worker, April 1925). Harry's talent for writing led him to the office of the Silent Worker, where he learned about the mysteries of the printers' art and was persuaded to give up his plan to build pig pens for a dollar a day (The Silent Worker, May 1924).
Harry earned a reputation as a competent printer. The Chairman of the Industrial Section chose Harry in the summer of 1925 to present a paper at the convention of Principals and Superintendents of the Deaf in Cincinnati, Ohio. However, on March 2 of that year, Harry died suddenly of acute gastritis and was buried in the Ogden City Cemetery, about a block from the school gate (The Silent Worker, April 1925). Harry's talent for writing led him to the office of the Silent Worker, where he learned about the mysteries of the printers' art and was persuaded to give up his plan to build pig pens for a dollar a day (The Silent Worker, May 1924).
William “Bill” Cole,
An Ogden Standard-Examiner Typographer
An Ogden Standard-Examiner Typographer
The earliest Deaf printer, William "Bill" Cole, was a testament to resilience. Born in England on June 15, 1884, he faced the harsh reality of life early on when his father died in a coal mine accident in 1904. Despite this tragedy, he chose to drop out of the Utah School for the Deaf, where he had enrolled in 1897, to support his family. His journey in the printing industry began on April 10, 1912, when he started as a galley boy for the old Ogden Standard. Even when the newspaper industry faced a major upheaval with the merger of Ogden's two major newspapers, the "Standard" and the "Examiner," Bill's determination and skill as one of the city's fastest "make-up men" ensured his continued employment (White, The Silent Worker, June 1920).
Bill was a typographer for this company for fifty years and is considered one of the industry's oldest full-time veterans in terms of service for one newspaper among typographers in the United States (UAD Bulletin, March 1984). Throughout his career, he worked as a "head setter," make-up artist, ad man, floor man, and shop foreman. On April 10, 1962, William retired from the company. He did not let his deafness prevent him from achieving his goals (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962).
He was featured in a piece in Editor and Publisher in 1941. He stated in that story:
"My Deafness is to my advantage. The noise in the composing room tends to distract some workers – but me. I never hear it. Thus, I am better able to keep my mind on my work."
Editor and Publisher commented:
"He is one of the fastest make-up men in the Intermountain country" (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962).
Bill was well-liked by both his workplace and the Deaf community in Utah. After traveling around the country, he worked as a make-up artist and operator at the "Standard" (White, The Silent Worker, April 1920).
Bill was a typographer for this company for fifty years and is considered one of the industry's oldest full-time veterans in terms of service for one newspaper among typographers in the United States (UAD Bulletin, March 1984). Throughout his career, he worked as a "head setter," make-up artist, ad man, floor man, and shop foreman. On April 10, 1962, William retired from the company. He did not let his deafness prevent him from achieving his goals (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962).
He was featured in a piece in Editor and Publisher in 1941. He stated in that story:
"My Deafness is to my advantage. The noise in the composing room tends to distract some workers – but me. I never hear it. Thus, I am better able to keep my mind on my work."
Editor and Publisher commented:
"He is one of the fastest make-up men in the Intermountain country" (The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1962).
Bill was well-liked by both his workplace and the Deaf community in Utah. After traveling around the country, he worked as a make-up artist and operator at the "Standard" (White, The Silent Worker, April 1920).
Many students received training as printers, but only a small percentage of them pursued a career in the printing industry after graduation. Some notable printers included William "Bill" Cole, George L. Laramie, Charles Roy Cochran, Keith Nelson, W. David Mortensen, and Kenneth L. Kinner. They worked as printers for newspapers including the Ogden Standard-Examiner, the Salt Lake Tribune, The Deseret News, and the Newspaper Agency Corporation.
Some Deaf employees also briefly worked in the printing industry before finding other employment. For instance, Charles Martin worked for a newspaper in Nephi before resigning to return to his family's farm in southern Idaho, where he farmed for the rest of his life. John H. Clark, who graduated from the Utah School for Deaf Printing, received a bachelor's degree from Gallaudet College. However, upon returning to Utah, he decided to work in the construction and building industries instead of pursuing a career in printing (Robert, 1994). G. Leon Curtis worked in the printing industry before resigning to attend the University of Arizona to pursue a graduate degree (G. Leon Curtis, personal communication, February 7, 2009).
Kenneth L. Kinner, a Printer
for the Newspaper Printing Industries
for the Newspaper Printing Industries
Kenneth L. Kinner, a graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf in 1954, went through various vocational training programs before deciding to pursue printing. At age 16, he secured a printing position at the Inland Printing Company in Kaysville, Utah. While studying at the USD, he continued to work as a printer until he graduated in 1954. He received an hourly wage of 75 cents during this time, which later increased to $2.00 per hour. In 1960, Kenneth relocated to Salt Lake City, Utah, and earned a salary of $3.00 per hour, which he considered an excellent wage. Using his earnings, Kenneth bought a new 1957 Ford car for $2,000, which cost him only $60.00 monthly for three years.
After graduation, Kenneth worked for the Inland Printing Company and lived with his mother in Clearfield, Utah. Despite his long work hours from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, he was dedicated and responsible. Kenneth proudly declared that he earned good money, which indicated his financial independence and success. Although he considered attending Gallaudet College, he decided against it because he realized that he would make the same pay as he did at the time and that a college degree would not increase his earnings.
After graduation, Kenneth worked for the Inland Printing Company and lived with his mother in Clearfield, Utah. Despite his long work hours from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, he was dedicated and responsible. Kenneth proudly declared that he earned good money, which indicated his financial independence and success. Although he considered attending Gallaudet College, he decided against it because he realized that he would make the same pay as he did at the time and that a college degree would not increase his earnings.
Kenneth L. Kinner married Ilene Coles, a 1959 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, in 1959 and worked at the Inland Printing Company. In 1960, he joined the Newspapers Agency Corp., working with two newspaper companies: The Salt Lake Tribune and The Deseret News. In 1964, Kenneth accepted a job offer with the Ogden Standard-Examiner, and they relocated to Ogden, Utah, so that their daughter Deanne, who was deaf, could attend Utah School for the Deaf. They bought their first home for $14,000 on Eccles Avenue between 30th and Patterson Streets and lived there for 23 years, paying $130.00 monthly. The company assigned Kenneth to work during the day, and he remained with them until 1993. Due to downside employers and substantial technological advancements, he decided to retire but worked part-time in 1994. Kenneth compared modern technology to an old dog learning new tricks, such as a computer taking over printing. He worked until he was 75 in 2008, marking 44 years in the printing profession (Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, December 26, 2010). Kenneth was proud of his profession and loved telling stories about his experiences at the printing companies.
Teletype-setter recently installed at Inland Printing Company sets type automatically from a perforated tape. Kenneth L. Kinner, Inland Linotype operator watches as William G. McMahon, customer engineer for Fairchild Graphic Equipment Company, San Jose, California, checks first tape run through machine which is attached to one of the company's four type setting machines. The Reflex Journal, November 13, 1958
The following newspaper article provides information about Kenneth L. Kinner, his employment as a linotype operator, and his twin Deaf sister, Eleanor Kay Kinner, who worked as a model for clothing catalogs.
Blacksmith Trade
The Utah School for the Deaf taught its students blacksmithing skills and included the trade in its curriculum. Hugh Jacob, a Deaf student, spent most of his professional life in Heber City, Utah, as a blacksmith. Later, many residential schools included auto mechanics and machine shops where students could learn blacksmithing (Roberts, 1994).
Carpentry
One of the first and most popular vocational classes was carpentry. They opened a carpentry shop before moving the Utah School for the Deaf to Ogden, Utah. This shop grew a lot after the school moved into its new building in Ogden. A Deaf carpentry graduate, Nephi Larsen taught many students and led carpentry workshops. They learned to make frames, doors, windows, sashes, shelves, and tables (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897; Roberts, 1994).
The carpentry shop also made many small fixes to keep the school buildings on campus in good shape. USD students made many woodworking projects throughout the school buildings (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897).
The carpentry shop also made many small fixes to keep the school buildings on campus in good shape. USD students made many woodworking projects throughout the school buildings (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897).
Donald Jensen, a 1938 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, taught woodworking classes. After graduating from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1944, Lloyd H. Perkins worked as a carpenter in the construction industry. In 1977, he, then branch president and bishop of the Salt Salt Valley for the Deaf of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, designed and completed a deaf-friendly church for the Salt Lake Valley Deaf Ward.
Barbering
After the Utah School for the Deaf moved to Ogden, Utah, in 1896, they established a barbering program to prepare Deaf students for careers in the barbering industry. The barbershop provided grooming services for students and staff. Former USD student Arvel Christensen opened his own barbershop.
Barbering was another option for students who wanted to acquire a different skill while still in school. Andrew Madsen, one of the students, learned carpentry and later became a barber when he returned to Ephraim, Utah (Roberts, 1994).
Barbering was another option for students who wanted to acquire a different skill while still in school. Andrew Madsen, one of the students, learned carpentry and later became a barber when he returned to Ephraim, Utah (Roberts, 1994).
Arvel Christensen, A Barbershop Owner
Arvel Christensen celebrated his retirement from the barbering business with an open house in 1973. He is believed to be the only Deaf barber who can use scissors in Utah, where he owned a barbershop at 908 Washington Boulevard in Ogden, Utah.
After graduating from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1932, he struggled to find work. However, due to the Great Depression in the early 1930s, he did not have much luck. Arvel decided to open a barbershop of his own. Before that, he studied at Moler Barber College in Salt Lake City and passed his state exam after five months of training.
After graduating from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1932, he struggled to find work. However, due to the Great Depression in the early 1930s, he did not have much luck. Arvel decided to open a barbershop of his own. Before that, he studied at Moler Barber College in Salt Lake City and passed his state exam after five months of training.
Arvel's first shop, on 13th Street in Ogden, was set up on his parents' front porch. He struck out on his own in 1940, leasing a property on Washington Boulevard and building a business with residential quarters in the back. He had many customers because his shop was across the street from Ogden High School, one of the largest high schools in Utah.
Arvel and Berdean moved into their home at 908 Washington Boulevard after their marriage. They set up a barbershop on their front porch. He had a minor stroke in May 1973, and because of his heart condition, he felt that after 40 years of dedication, it was time to reap the rewards of his labor (UAD Bulletin, November 1973).
Arvel and Berdean moved into their home at 908 Washington Boulevard after their marriage. They set up a barbershop on their front porch. He had a minor stroke in May 1973, and because of his heart condition, he felt that after 40 years of dedication, it was time to reap the rewards of his labor (UAD Bulletin, November 1973).
Shoemaking
Students in the shoemaking program learned how to make and repair shoes. This program trained most students who went on to work in the shoe industry. The shoemaking department also repaired shoes for students and employees (Roberts, 1994).
The students worked in the shoe repair business throughout the state, including John Alvey, who owned his own shop. Paul Mark, John W. McMills, and Lee Shepherd also owned shoe repair shops.
The students worked in the shoe repair business throughout the state, including John Alvey, who owned his own shop. Paul Mark, John W. McMills, and Lee Shepherd also owned shoe repair shops.
Paul Mark,
A Shoe Repair Shop Owner
A Shoe Repair Shop Owner
In the 1920s, Paul Mark, an 1892 alumnus of the Utah School for the Deaf, owned "Dunn and Bradstreet," a shoe shop on 25th Street in Ogden, Utah. He had a thriving business and also owned stock in a number of Ogden's top industries (White, The Silent Worker, April and October 1920). Paul repaired more than fifteen pairs of shoes in one day. One day, his business became so busy that he had to work past his customary closing hours. Cyril Jones of Logan, USD class of 1912, and the Deaf father of two Deaf sons, Von and Rollin Jones, became his assistant and later became Paul's full-time employee (White, The Silent Worker, June 1920).
If members wanted to know what was happening in their Deaf community, they would contact Paul Mark. He arranged gatherings at his shoe shop, bringing Deaf people from around the country (White, The Silent Worker, April 1920). While Paul was operating his shop in Ogden, Utah, another Deaf individual, John W. McMills, a former USD student, had a shop in Salt Lake City, Utah.
John W. McMills
A Shoe Repair Shop Owner
A Shoe Repair Shop Owner
At age six, in 1888, John Wallace McMills entered the Utah School for the Deaf in Salt Lake City, Utah. While in school, he learned a variety of trades. John excelled at horseshoeing, repairing, and fabricating harnesses. Shoemaking became his life's work. Following his father's health decline, John dropped out of school to become the primary breadwinner for the McMills family. His mother relied on him for a steady source of income. John, at the age of 20, opened his first shoemaking and repair shop in Tooele, Utah, around 1902. In 1903 or 1904, he moved his business to Mercur, Utah, to support his family. Following his marriage to Pearl Ault in 1910, John 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, relocated to Utah to run his last business, J.W. McMills Shoe Repairing Co., located at 267 E. 5th South in Salt Lake City. John was well-known in the local business community. Furthermore, the Deaf community respected John and frequently sought his advice. In 1952, he retired and sold his business. In 1916, he was a founding member of Salt Lake City Division No. 56, an insurance company.
Lee Shepherd,
An Owner of the Shoe Repair Business
An Owner of the Shoe Repair Business
At the turn of the 20th century, Lee Shepherd's family settled in Spanish Fork, Utah, but during the Great Depression, Lee's father relocated the family to Salt Lake City in search of work. Lee was born in Salt Lake City in 1926 and moved back to Spanish Fork in 1928 after becoming deaf. Lee enrolled in the Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden in 1932 and graduated in 1946 with a class of eight to ten students (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
Lee spent most of his in-school apprenticeship training at USD with Paul Mark, a Deaf man who ran an Ogden shoe repair shop. Mr. Mark was a "weekend teacher," coming to USD on Fridays and Saturdays to help Lee and others learn how to repair shoes. By his senior year, Lee's proficiency in the trade had earned him an invitation to teach and train other students. Lee also worked as an apprentice with Grant Morgan, a Deaf man who had a shoe repair shop in Spanish Fork. Most of Lee's training came from Paul Mark (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
Lee spent most of his in-school apprenticeship training at USD with Paul Mark, a Deaf man who ran an Ogden shoe repair shop. Mr. Mark was a "weekend teacher," coming to USD on Fridays and Saturdays to help Lee and others learn how to repair shoes. By his senior year, Lee's proficiency in the trade had earned him an invitation to teach and train other students. Lee also worked as an apprentice with Grant Morgan, a Deaf man who had a shoe repair shop in Spanish Fork. Most of Lee's training came from Paul Mark (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
In March 1947, after working at the Modern Shoe Clinic in Ogden, Utah, Lee started his own business and established a shoe repair shop in Spanish Fork, Utah (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947). His first store in 1947 was located in Spanish Fork on the northwest corner of 100 North and 100 West. He later bought a bigger and better-trafficked shop in 1956 on the northeast corner of 200 North Main Street (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
After working at the Modern Shoe Clinic in Ogden, Utah, for a while, Lee started his own business and opened a shoe repair shop in Spanish Fork, Utah, in March 1947 (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947). In 1947, he opened his first business in Spanish Fork, on the northwest corner of 100 North and 100 West. In 1956, he purchased a larger and busier shop on the northeast corner of 200 North Main Street (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
After working at the Modern Shoe Clinic in Ogden, Utah, for a while, Lee started his own business and opened a shoe repair shop in Spanish Fork, Utah, in March 1947 (Burdett, The Utah Eagle, January 1947). In 1947, he opened his first business in Spanish Fork, on the northwest corner of 100 North and 100 West. In 1956, he purchased a larger and busier shop on the northeast corner of 200 North Main Street (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
Lee chose Spanish Fork over Ogden and Salt Lake City, where there was a large Deaf community, because he felt his family, extended family, and the entire Spanish Fork community already recognized him. It would be easier to build a clientele. He thought starting a business in SLC or Ogden would have been more challenging due to a larger and unknown client base (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
Lee received recognition in Spanish Fork, Utah, for his kind demeanor and prompt service. In 1985, he sold his company and retired. For many years, he sold western boots and repaired shoes. He is believed to be the final Deaf business owner to graduate from the Vocational Department of the Utah School for the Deaf. In addition to his business, he served on the boards of the Utah Association for the Deaf and the Utah Valley Chapter (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
Lee received recognition in Spanish Fork, Utah, for his kind demeanor and prompt service. In 1985, he sold his company and retired. For many years, he sold western boots and repaired shoes. He is believed to be the final Deaf business owner to graduate from the Vocational Department of the Utah School for the Deaf. In addition to his business, he served on the boards of the Utah Association for the Deaf and the Utah Valley Chapter (Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009).
Thomas Loran Savage's Shoe Repair Business
in Flagstaff, Arizona
in Flagstaff, Arizona
While working at the Utah School for the Deaf, Elizabeth "Libbie" DeLong, who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1897 and Gallaudet College in 1902, met Thomas Loran Savage, also known as Loran Savage, from Antimony, Utah (Banks & Banks; Roberts, 1994). They spent a lot of time together and got to know each other well. The residential school environment at the time allowed students and staff members to interact, making it a popular social meeting spot for Deaf people, leading to several Deaf weddings (Roberts, 1994). Loran, who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1914, was 14 years younger than Libbie. He was very athletic and participated in all of the school's sports, excelling as a basketball player. Loran was training to become a shoemaker (Banks & Banks). Loran and Libbie Savage married in Panguitch, Utah, on July 25, 1917. They later moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, where Loran started his own shoe repair business.
Loran and Libbie worked together at a shoe repair shop and had a great relationship. According to Banks and Banks, everyone in town held them in high regard. They were happy together until Libbie's final battle with cancer, which took her life in 1931 at the age of 57. Despite her illness, she maintained her cheerful demeanor, and Loran remained devoted to her. Libbie handled most of the office work for Loran (Banks & Banks).
Learning Agriculture and Farming Skills
at the Utah School for the Deaf
at the Utah School for the Deaf
When the Utah School for the Deaf relocated to Ogden, Utah, in 1896, it spanned 200,000 acres of land on a high level, complete with lawns, flower beds, trees, orchards, a farm, and gardens. This large setup was more than simply for appearance; it was a self-sustaining ecosystem capable of growing crops and raising 'garden sass' to feed the students (The Silent Worker, January 1897).
The Utah School for the Deaf did more than teach in the classroom. The students learned how to garden, farm, and grow plants with the help of qualified workers. This hands-on method aimed to give students the skills they would need to return to their farming roots (The Silent Worker, January 1897).
The Utah School for the Deaf did more than teach in the classroom. The students learned how to garden, farm, and grow plants with the help of qualified workers. This hands-on method aimed to give students the skills they would need to return to their farming roots (The Silent Worker, January 1897).
Did You Know?
"Mr. Driggs [USDB Superintendent] gave us ten dollars to deposit in the Commercial National Bank; we got a checkbook and when we buy chicken feed, we write a check to pay for it. When Mr. Driggs pays us for eggs, we deposit that money in the bank. When we have enough, we will pay back ten dollars to Mr. Driggs". – Utah Eagle
"No wonder they grow rich and prosperous out in Utah, when even the girls, in additions to learning poultry management in a practical, common-sense way, are given the excellent course in business methods which the above extract from a girl’s description of her poultry studies shows she is receiving" (The Silent Worker, November 1916).
"No wonder they grow rich and prosperous out in Utah, when even the girls, in additions to learning poultry management in a practical, common-sense way, are given the excellent course in business methods which the above extract from a girl’s description of her poultry studies shows she is receiving" (The Silent Worker, November 1916).
Gardening
The Utah School for the Deaf was able to start a horticulture program because of the size of the new facility in Ogden, Utah. The gardeners and staff members, Mr. Kremer and Mr. Hickenlooper taught the students about agriculture and farming. Later, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints hired two students, Joseph Beck and Alfred Young, as gardeners at their 10-acre Temple Square in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah (Roberts, 1994).
Farming Animals and Tending Orchard
In 1897, the Utah School for the Deaf had a vast orchard with practically every fruit imaginable. The kitchen canned fruits and vegetables and stored over 3,000 jars of fruit, several hundred quarts of jelly, pickles, tomatoes, chow-chow, ketchup, and other items (Roberts, 1994).
The boys learned how to raise cattle and grow orchards. They also studied agriculture to improve their work skills, which would be helpful when they returned to their rural homes (Roberts, 1994).
The boys learned how to raise cattle and grow orchards. They also studied agriculture to improve their work skills, which would be helpful when they returned to their rural homes (Roberts, 1994).
The Expansion of the
Vocational Education Program for Girls
Vocational Education Program for Girls
During their early education training at the Utah School for the Deaf, which began in 1897, the girls learned a variety of homemaking skills including embroidery, needlework, painting, crocheting, knitting, and making paper flowers. The homemaking class covered everything from cooking to cleaning to sewing. Additionally, the school provided instruction in commercial subjects such as typing, filing, and the proper use of office equipment (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897). At that time, the USD aimed to demonstrate that sending every Deaf child to this school would ensure their happy and content lives (The Utah Eagle, September 15, 1897).
During the first six grades at the Utah School for the Deaf, the vocational department for girls was the same as the school for boys. The girls learned how to cook, sew, make clothes, do fancy work, and clean the house (Driggs, The Utah Eagle, November 1, 1901). The girls also took regular housekeeping classes and helped with schoolhouse chores (The Utah School for the Deaf Program Book).
While both boys and girls participated in vocational education programs, they obtained equal experience. Several young women worked as dressmakers, including Sarah Abby and Ivy Griggs Low, who served as housemothers at the Montana School for the Deaf (Roberts, 1994).
Vocation Education Program Continued
at the Utah School for the Deaf in 1968
at the Utah School for the Deaf in 1968
The Utah Association of the Deaf has been a strong advocate for vocational education training. In 1968, while the vocational education programs at the Utah School for the Deaf were still in operation, the UAD proudly acknowledged that Deaf students were more likely to enter society as productive, tax-paying citizens in a vocation rather than in a profession (The Utah Eagle, February 1968).
The vocational education program for girls in the 1960s included home nursing, family living, beauty culture, and data processing (The Utah Eagle, February 1968).
More Job Opportunities for the
Utah School for the Deaf Graduates
Utah School for the Deaf Graduates
The Utah School for the Deaf has been instrumental in helping students develop marketable skills, enabling them to lead independent lives and rely less on their families. Since its establishment in 1884, the school has contributed to the growth of the Utah Deaf community, fostering connections among its members in unprecedented ways. As a result, many graduates have chosen to live and work in metropolitan areas like Salt Lake City and Ogden rather than returning to the relative isolation of rural towns in Utah, where few other Deaf individuals resided after leaving the Utah School for the Deaf (Roberts, 1994).
More Trades and Skills Are Available
at the Utah School for the Deaf
at the Utah School for the Deaf
The vocational education program for boys grew in the 1960s, adding more trades and skills like welding, sheet metal work, electrical and plumbing repair, and auto mechanics. Students who met the school's requirements used the facilities at Weber State College (The Utah Eagle, February 1968).
The vocational education training for the girls at the time included home nursing, family life, beauty culture, and data processing (The Utah Eagle, February 1968).
The vocational education training for the girls at the time included home nursing, family life, beauty culture, and data processing (The Utah Eagle, February 1968).
Eleanor Kay Kinner works as a Card Punch Operator
at Hill Air Force Base, Utah
at Hill Air Force Base, Utah
In 1968, Eleanor Kay Kinner, a 1954 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf and card punch operator, received the annual Air Force Association Outstanding Achievement Award. The card punch operator vocation was extremely popular among Deaf women, who made exceptional operators because the noise did not bother them and they could concentrate on the production process. Hill Air Force Base, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Western Service Center in Utah employed many Deaf women (The Utah Eagle, Summer 1968).
Ilene Coles Kinner
Detects Tax Fraud
Detects Tax Fraud
In 1976, Jim Hilber, a vocational rehabilitation counselor, aimed to increase the number of Deaf employees at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in Ogden, Utah. Ilene Coles Kinner, a 1959 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, was among the eight Deaf individuals who helped Jim achieve this goal. Initially, she worked part-time to balance her work and family life. Fortunately, her exceptional skills as a tax examiner quickly came to light when she discovered fraudulent tax returns, preventing the disbursement of refunds amounting to $2,700. Her accomplishments not only showcased the abilities of Deaf individuals but also played a significant role in promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
Despite the job's seasonal nature, Ilene's dedication led her to work until May of that year. She then chose to stay home with her son, Duane. However, her manager, Barbara Norseth, recognized Ilene's capabilities and visited her home one summer day to offer her a full-time position. This was a significant decision for Ilene, as she was still figuring out how to balance work and her responsibilities as a mother. Yet, with Jim's encouragement and Ilene's determination to demonstrate that Deaf people can do the job, she accepted the offer, becoming the first Deaf person to work full-time in a permanent position at the IRS.
Despite the job's seasonal nature, Ilene's dedication led her to work until May of that year. She then chose to stay home with her son, Duane. However, her manager, Barbara Norseth, recognized Ilene's capabilities and visited her home one summer day to offer her a full-time position. This was a significant decision for Ilene, as she was still figuring out how to balance work and her responsibilities as a mother. Yet, with Jim's encouragement and Ilene's determination to demonstrate that Deaf people can do the job, she accepted the offer, becoming the first Deaf person to work full-time in a permanent position at the IRS.
In January 1978, Ilene Coles Kinner began working full-time. Soon after, she advocated for hiring Deaf individuals for full-time, permanent positions. Her efforts paid off, as the IRS began to hire more full-time Deaf employees. Ilene dedicated 26 years of service to the company before retiring on January 3, 2004. She found working for the Internal Revenue Service to be a fulfilling experience. She expressed gratitude towards the company for being responsive to hiring more Deaf employees (Ilene Coles Kinner, personal communication, December 26, 2010).
Declination of the Vocational Education Programs
at the Utah School for the Deaf
at the Utah School for the Deaf
The Utah School for the Deaf has a long history of providing vocational education programs for Deaf and hard of hearing students, dating back to 1889. However, due to changes in educational priorities and the rise of mainstreaming, the vocational education programs at the school declined and ended in the 1990s. Now, students aged 16 to 21 can participate in the Supported Transition Extension Program, which offers comprehensive academic, social, job readiness, college preparation, and life skills education. Students who live on campus after high school can also gain independence, social skills, and adult transition skills. Additionally, the Ogden/Weber Applied Technology College provides trade certificates and on-the-job training for students, enabling them to work for various companies.
According to Michelle Tanner, Associate Superintendent of the Utah School for the Deaf, the state has long advocated for all students to attend college. While many students find this helpful, others find it challenging. To ensure the success of all students, regardless of their goals, the Utah School for the Deaf made coordinated efforts a few years ago. Some students still want to attend college, while others prefer vocational education training. Under the Utah School for the Deaf's umbrella, the Kenneth Burdett School of the Deaf collaborates with Ogden-Weber Technical College (OTEC) in the Ogden area, offering job coaches and interpreters to make classes more accessible. Students at the Utah School for the Deaf have acquired welding and culinary arts degrees, with some graduating at the top of their classes. The school recently partnered with EnableUtah, a nonprofit organization in Ogden, to provide a career training program for students who have experienced major delays. The Utah School for the Deaf also transformed the old woodshop on the Ogden campus into a vocational training facility equipped to design and print shirts and work on technical projects. The school has also collaborated with Salt Lake Community College and Paul Mitchell Cosmetology School in Salt Lake City to help students obtain credentials from co-enrolled programs. Additionally, in the fall of 2019, the school hired a transition specialist to find businesses willing to train their students for various vocations. Despite changes in vocational education programs, the Utah School for the Deaf has established an approach to allow Deaf and hard of hearing students to pursue vocational education.
Despite changes in vocational education programs, the Utah School for the Deaf has established an approach to allow deaf and hard of hearing students to pursue vocational education.
Despite changes in vocational education programs, the Utah School for the Deaf has established an approach to allow deaf and hard of hearing students to pursue vocational education.
ARCHIVES
- Special Alumni Issue. The Utah Eagle, April 1955. (PDF)
- Utah Deaf People in Business and Industry...in the Space Age. The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1968. (PDF)
Notes
Doug Stringham, personal communication, April 29, 2009.
G. Leon Curtis, personal communication, February 7, 2009.
Ilene Coles Kinner, Personal Interview, December 26, 2010.
Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, December 26, 2010
Michelle Tanner, personal communication, December 21, 2021
G. Leon Curtis, personal communication, February 7, 2009.
Ilene Coles Kinner, Personal Interview, December 26, 2010.
Kenneth L. Kinner, personal communication, December 26, 2010
Michelle Tanner, personal communication, December 21, 2021
References
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Banks, Gladys W. & Banks, Douglas W. "The DeLong Family Saga.
Burdett, Kenneth, C. “Lee Shepherd.” The Utah Eagle, vol. 58, no. 4 (January 1947): 9.
“Death.” The Silent Worker, vol. 37, no. 7 (April 1925): 359.
Driggs, Frank, M. The Utah Eagle, vol. XIII, no. 2 (November 1, 1901): 16.
Evans, David S. “A Silent World in the Intermountain West: Records from the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind: 1884-1941.” A thesis presented to the Department of History: Utah State University. 1999.
“Exchange.” The Silent Worker, vol. 29, no. 2 (November 1916): 33.
“Harry Sanger Smith.” The Silent Worker, vol. 13, no. 1 (September 1990): 5.
“It is great, our School for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind.” The Utah Eagle, vol. IX, no.1 (September 15, 1897): 1-2.
"Keen Action By OSC Workers Reveals Fraud." The IRS Newsletter. (1977).
“Miss C.V. Eddy.” The Silent Worker, vol. 10, no. 5 (January 1898): 73.
“New Developments in Utah’s Educational Programs for the Deaf.” The Utah Eagle, vol. 79, no. 5 (February 1968): 13 – 15.
“News of Note.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 7, no. 10 (March 1984): 5.
“Obituary.” The Silent Worker, vol. 37, no, 7 (April 1925): 359.
“Printer Serves 50 Years Engineer Closes Career.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 7 (Summer 1962): 3.
Roberts, Elaine M. “The early history of the Utah School for the Deaf and its influence in the development of a cohesive Deaf society in Utah, circa. 1884 – 1905.” A thesis presented to the Department of History:Brigham Young University. August 1994.
“Starting Things.” The Silent Worker, vol. 36, no. 8, (May 1924): 365.
"Tax Examiner Uncovers Fraud." The Ogden Standard-Examiner. (March 19, 1977): 9.
“Tribute to Harry S. Smith.” The Silent Worker, vol. 38, no. 8 (May 1925): 385.
“The Utah School for the Deaf.” The Silent Worker, vol. 9, no. 5 (January 1897): 77.
"Utah Deaf People in Business and Industry ...in the Space Age." The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 3 (Summer 1968).
Utah School for the Deaf Program Book, 1960s.
“With Our Exchanges.” The Silent Worker, vol. 18, no. 9 (June 1906): 141.
White, Bob. “Notes and Comments from the Land of the Mormons.” The Silent Worker, vol. 32 no. 7 (April 1920): 186.
White, Bob. “Notes and Comment From the Land of the Mormons.” The Silent Worker, vol. 32, no. 9 (June 1920): 243.
White, Bob. “Winding Trails.” The Silent Worker, vol. 33, no. 2 (November 1920): 59-60 & 62.
“WM. Cole, Carlos Seegmiller Honored.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 7 (Summer 1962): 3 & 10.
Banks, Gladys W. & Banks, Douglas W. "The DeLong Family Saga.
Burdett, Kenneth, C. “Lee Shepherd.” The Utah Eagle, vol. 58, no. 4 (January 1947): 9.
“Death.” The Silent Worker, vol. 37, no. 7 (April 1925): 359.
Driggs, Frank, M. The Utah Eagle, vol. XIII, no. 2 (November 1, 1901): 16.
Evans, David S. “A Silent World in the Intermountain West: Records from the Utah School for the Deaf and Blind: 1884-1941.” A thesis presented to the Department of History: Utah State University. 1999.
“Exchange.” The Silent Worker, vol. 29, no. 2 (November 1916): 33.
“Harry Sanger Smith.” The Silent Worker, vol. 13, no. 1 (September 1990): 5.
“It is great, our School for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind.” The Utah Eagle, vol. IX, no.1 (September 15, 1897): 1-2.
"Keen Action By OSC Workers Reveals Fraud." The IRS Newsletter. (1977).
“Miss C.V. Eddy.” The Silent Worker, vol. 10, no. 5 (January 1898): 73.
“New Developments in Utah’s Educational Programs for the Deaf.” The Utah Eagle, vol. 79, no. 5 (February 1968): 13 – 15.
“News of Note.” UAD Bulletin, vol. 7, no. 10 (March 1984): 5.
“Obituary.” The Silent Worker, vol. 37, no, 7 (April 1925): 359.
“Printer Serves 50 Years Engineer Closes Career.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 7 (Summer 1962): 3.
Roberts, Elaine M. “The early history of the Utah School for the Deaf and its influence in the development of a cohesive Deaf society in Utah, circa. 1884 – 1905.” A thesis presented to the Department of History:Brigham Young University. August 1994.
“Starting Things.” The Silent Worker, vol. 36, no. 8, (May 1924): 365.
"Tax Examiner Uncovers Fraud." The Ogden Standard-Examiner. (March 19, 1977): 9.
“Tribute to Harry S. Smith.” The Silent Worker, vol. 38, no. 8 (May 1925): 385.
“The Utah School for the Deaf.” The Silent Worker, vol. 9, no. 5 (January 1897): 77.
"Utah Deaf People in Business and Industry ...in the Space Age." The UAD Bulletin, vol. 5, no. 3 (Summer 1968).
Utah School for the Deaf Program Book, 1960s.
“With Our Exchanges.” The Silent Worker, vol. 18, no. 9 (June 1906): 141.
White, Bob. “Notes and Comments from the Land of the Mormons.” The Silent Worker, vol. 32 no. 7 (April 1920): 186.
White, Bob. “Notes and Comment From the Land of the Mormons.” The Silent Worker, vol. 32, no. 9 (June 1920): 243.
White, Bob. “Winding Trails.” The Silent Worker, vol. 33, no. 2 (November 1920): 59-60 & 62.
“WM. Cole, Carlos Seegmiller Honored.” The UAD Bulletin, vol. 2, no. 7 (Summer 1962): 3 & 10.