The Utah Deaf History Collection
at Utah Valley University's
George Sutherland Archives
at Utah Valley University's
George Sutherland Archives
Written by Jodi Christel Becker
Published in 2023
Updated in 2025
Published in 2023
Updated in 2025
Author’s Note
On October 18, 2012, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit the George Sutherland Archives at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, along with Philippe Montalette, the President of the Utah Association of the Deaf, and Marilyn Tiller Call, the Director of the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. It was such a meaningful experience! We were incredibly grateful to Catherine McIntyre, the archivist who has since retired, along with her amazing colleagues, Aimee Bastarache and Brent Seavers. They were so generous with their time and knowledge, which truly helped us understand the materials we were getting ready to donate. It was a memorable day filled with learning and sharing!
Philippe Montalette
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Marilyn Tiller Call
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Following our visit, we donated several historical materials related to the Utah Deaf community to the George Sutherland Archives for digitization, research, and historic preservation. We are proud to play a role in digitizing and preserving our shared history!
We are truly grateful for the Sutherland Archives' care in preserving our Utah Deaf History collection. Their commitment makes a significant difference in keeping our heritage alive for future generations. Thank you so much for everything you do!
If you have any pictures or materials you'd like to donate, please feel free to reach out to me. I would be more than happy to assist you through the process. Together, let's ensure that our history remains alive and accessible!
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
We are truly grateful for the Sutherland Archives' care in preserving our Utah Deaf History collection. Their commitment makes a significant difference in keeping our heritage alive for future generations. Thank you so much for everything you do!
If you have any pictures or materials you'd like to donate, please feel free to reach out to me. I would be more than happy to assist you through the process. Together, let's ensure that our history remains alive and accessible!
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Catherine McIntyre
In 2016, the George Sutherland Archives launched a vital project to digitally scan and upload the scrapbooks and minutes from the Utah Association of the Deaf Conventions to their digital collections. This groundbreaking initiative, led by Catherine McIntyre, the archivist and digitization librarian at the George Sutherland Archives, marked the realization of a long-awaited goal and highlighted the importance of preserving the history of the Deaf community.
Catherine Mclntyre
Dr. Bryan Eldredge
Dr. Bryan Eldredge, a professor and program director of American Sign Language and Deaf Studies, also played a crucial role in the success of this archival project. His collaboration with Catherine McIntyre and the George Sutherland Archives was vital in bringing this initiative to fruition. Their combined efforts exemplify the power of partnership and deserve recognition for their significant impact on preserving the history of the Utah Deaf community.
Dr. Bryan Eldredge
Utah Association of the Deaf
Conventions Minutes Books, 1909-1952
Conventions Minutes Books, 1909-1952
Valarie G. Kinney, a dedicated officer and member of the Utah Association for the Deaf has done an exceptional job of preserving our history. Thanks to her efforts, we now have two important books that contain the minutes from the triennial and biennial conventions of the Utah Association of the Deaf, covering the years from 1909 to 1952. Her commitment to safeguarding this vital information not only demonstrates her dedication to the Deaf community but also ensures our stories are not forgotten, making us all proud and connected!
Valerie G. Kinney
The Utah Association of the Deaf Conventions Minutes, 1909-1952
The Scrapbook of the
Utah Association of the Deaf
Conventions, 1931-1984
Utah Association of the Deaf
Conventions, 1931-1984
Georgia Henricks Walker, a 1930 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, played a crucial role in keeping the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf alive. From 1931 to 1984, she diligently collected, preserved, and compiled the Utah Association of the Deaf Conventions scrapbook in her role as the organization's secretary. This scrapbook is not just a collection of papers—it's a heartfelt tribute to her dedication! It features clippings from local Utah newspapers about the Deaf community, convention programs, and all sorts of neat memorabilia that highlight the vibrant history of the association. What a fantastic contribution she made!
Gerogia Henricks Walker
Gerogia Henricks Walker's Utah Association of the Deaf conventions scrapbook, 1931-1984
Valerie G. Kinney recognized the importance of the scrapbook and took steps to preserve it. Eventually, she passed it along to me when I began exploring the history of the Utah Association of the Deaf. Thanks to the wonderful scrapbook, I learned much more and expanded my understanding of history. Once we completed our work, we collectively decided to share our findings with the community by donating the scrapbook to the George Sutherland Archives at Utah Valley University. This gesture was a meaningful way to honor our commitment to preserving the rich history of the Deaf community in Utah, showcasing how active and passionate the community is about keeping its story alive!
The Large Scrapbook of the
Utah Deaf Community, 1940s-1980s
Utah Deaf Community, 1940s-1980s
Valerie G. Kinney also played a crucial role in preserving another wonderful brown scrapbook that was lovingly compiled by Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, a well-respected Deaf leader in Utah who made a difference from the 1940s to the 1980s. This special scrapbook is packed with newspaper clippings that capture the lively discussions and debates between oral and sign language, which were important in shaping how the Deaf community communicated and learned in Utah. You'll also find details about the amazing efforts of the Utah Association of the Deaf and news from the Utah School for the Deaf. These clippings have been so helpful in filling in some historical gaps! Once we finished the manuscript called "Deaf Education History in Utah," we donated the scrapbook to the UVU Sutherland Archives so that others could enjoy and learn from it, too.
Dr. Robert G. Sanderson. Source: Gallaudet University Archives
A Large Scrapbook of the Utah Deaf Community, 1940s-1980s
The UAD Bulletins, 1960s-1970s
LaVern Petersen Burnett, who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1943, was an amazing contributor to the Utah Deaf community. She was also the spouse of Joseph Ball Burnett, a well-known figure in that community. LaVern generously donated "The UAD Bulletins" from the 1960s and 1970s, which greatly assisted me in researching Utah Deaf history. After completing my project, I donated these bulletins to the UVU Sutherland Archives, ensuring that her contributions will continue to inspire others!
LaVern Petersen Burnett, a 1943 Senior of the Utah School for the Deaf
The UAD Bulletin, Summer 1963, Vol 2 No 10
Dr. Jay J. Campbell's 1977
Comprehensive Study
of Deaf Education in Utah
Comprehensive Study
of Deaf Education in Utah
In 1977, Dr. Jay J. Campbell embarked on an important journey with his study, "Education of the Deaf in Utah: A Comprehensive Study." He aimed to tackle the ongoing debate between oral and sign language education in Utah. Despite facing some challenges, Dr. Campbell completed his research on February 15, 1977, and shared it with the Utah State Board of Education a couple of months later on April 14. His recommendations sought to enhance the education system at the Utah School for the Deaf, advocating for fairer evaluation and placement processes.
However, not everyone agreed with his findings. Dr. Grant B. Bitter, a passionate supporter of oral education and other advocates, contended that sign language wasn't the best fit for deaf education. This disagreement sparked a significant controversy that continues to impact the field of Deaf education today.
However, not everyone agreed with his findings. Dr. Grant B. Bitter, a passionate supporter of oral education and other advocates, contended that sign language wasn't the best fit for deaf education. This disagreement sparked a significant controversy that continues to impact the field of Deaf education today.
Dr. Jay J. Campbell. Source: UAD Bulletin, June 1973
Dr. Campbell's comprehensive study unfortunately faced significant resistance, leading to the failure of his efforts to improve education through fair assessment and placement procedures. Initially buried and hidden, his two-year study was rediscovered in 2007 and gained recognition as a valuable resource. Importantly, it continues to influence the future of Deaf education, offering hope for a fairer system and underscoring the lasting impact of his work. The enduring influence of Dr. Campbell's study serves as a guiding light in the field of Deaf Education, highlighting the lasting value of his research and the potential for positive change.
Dr. Jay J. Campbell's 1977 Comprehensive Study of Deaf Education in Utah
My father-in-law, Kenneth L. Kinner, who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1954 and is the proud father of two Deaf children, Deanne and Duane, was thrilled when he learned about my interest in Deaf Education history. He dug Dr. Campbell's book out of the dust and handed it to me. I was delighted to use it in my research for a history website, and I eventually donated it to the UVU Sutherland Archives. We were committed to ensuring Dr. Campbell's book was not forgotten or buried again. Thank you, Ken, for taking such good care of Dr. Campbell's book all these years!
We are excited to share that in 2024, UVU's Sutherland Archives completed the digitization of Dr. Jay J. Campbell's "Comprehensive Study of Deaf Education in Utah." This significant achievement not only preserves an important part of history but also allows Dr. Campbell's work to continue inspiring future generations of educators, researchers, and advocates. We cannot emphasize enough the value of this digitization; it expands the reach of Dr. Campbell's invaluable insights and ensures that his work will be cherished for years to come!
We are excited to share that in 2024, UVU's Sutherland Archives completed the digitization of Dr. Jay J. Campbell's "Comprehensive Study of Deaf Education in Utah." This significant achievement not only preserves an important part of history but also allows Dr. Campbell's work to continue inspiring future generations of educators, researchers, and advocates. We cannot emphasize enough the value of this digitization; it expands the reach of Dr. Campbell's invaluable insights and ensures that his work will be cherished for years to come!
Kenneth L. Kinner
The Collection of Don Curtis Jacobs'
The Utah Eagle Magazines
The Utah Eagle Magazines
On May 19, 2016, I had the pleasure of paying Jeff Buhler $50 for a fantastic collection of The Utah Eagle publications! These magazines were issued by the Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind from the 1900s to the 1940s, and I couldn't believe my luck when Jeff reached out to me through the Utah Deaf History website. He found these treasures at an estate sale, and when he offered to sell them, I jumped at the chance—because I wanted to preserve this wonderful piece of history.
Jeff's effort to save these magazines prevented potential loss or disposal, which was very important. The collection originally belonged to Don Curtis Jacobs, who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1942. I was thrilled to give the collection a new home and ultimately donated it to the UVU Sutherland Archives. It's great to know that this important history can be shared with others!
Jeff's effort to save these magazines prevented potential loss or disposal, which was very important. The collection originally belonged to Don Curtis Jacobs, who graduated from the Utah School for the Deaf in 1942. I was thrilled to give the collection a new home and ultimately donated it to the UVU Sutherland Archives. It's great to know that this important history can be shared with others!
Don Curtis Jacobs, Source: The Utahan, 1942
Don Curtis Jacobs' Utah School for the Deaf Magazines
The Photo of the 1909
Utah Association of the Deaf Convention
Utah Association of the Deaf Convention
On August 1, 2022, I received a delightful surprise in my e-mail from Julie Lowry! She generously offered to send me the original 1909 photograph from the Utah Association of the Deaf. I was beyond thrilled and quickly replied with a big "Yes!"
Julie shared that she discovered this gem at a garage sale in her neighborhood, where people raised money to help cover their granddaughter's medical bills. While browsing through donated books, she spotted the photograph with "1909" written in pencil on the back. Isn't that amazing? What made it even more intriguing was that she had no idea who the previous owner was or how it ended up at the sale, adding a touch of mystery to the whole story!
I'm so grateful to Julie for finding this treasure and sharing such a meaningful piece of history with me. It truly warms my heart!
Julie shared that she discovered this gem at a garage sale in her neighborhood, where people raised money to help cover their granddaughter's medical bills. While browsing through donated books, she spotted the photograph with "1909" written in pencil on the back. Isn't that amazing? What made it even more intriguing was that she had no idea who the previous owner was or how it ended up at the sale, adding a touch of mystery to the whole story!
I'm so grateful to Julie for finding this treasure and sharing such a meaningful piece of history with me. It truly warms my heart!
The 1909 Utah Association of the Deaf Convention, Ogden, Utah
The Publications of the
Utah School for the Deaf
Utah School for the Deaf
For many years, the Utah School for the Deaf published wonderful publications like "The Utahan," "Utahn," and "The Utah Eagle," which are treasures of Utah Deaf history. The Utah Eagle magazines, spanning from 1932 to 1978, were displayed in the lounge at the Sanderson Community Center, highlighting a vibrant chapter in the story of the Utah Deaf community. These periodicals were filled with student-written stories, news, Deaf education research, school programs, clubs, sports, and so much more! The Utah School for the Deaf played an important role in celebrating and preserving Utah's rich Deaf history, also producing the delightful "Utahan" and "Utahn" yearbooks. It's a beautiful reminder of the community's spirit and accomplishments!
Pamela Mower
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Melanie Garn Sperry
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During the 2023 remodeling, the center realized it needed a bit more space, which led to the difficult decision of parting with a significant collection. Thankfully, employees Pamela Mower and Melanie Garn Sperry took the initiative to entrust me with this collection, allowing us to donate it to the George Sutherland Archives. This extraordinary institution is dedicated to preserving Utah's Deaf history, and we're thrilled to ensure that these valuable publications will remain accessible to everyone.
On October 20, 2023, the UVU Sutherland Archives officially received all these publications for digitization and preservation. This crucial step guarantees that these precious records of Utah's Deaf history will be available for future generations, giving us all peace of mind that they will be well taken care of!
On October 20, 2023, the UVU Sutherland Archives officially received all these publications for digitization and preservation. This crucial step guarantees that these precious records of Utah's Deaf history will be available for future generations, giving us all peace of mind that they will be well taken care of!
The Utah School for the Deaf's periodicals, 2023
The Deaf Periodicals Donated to the Museum of Deaf History, Arts, and Culture
The lounge at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing has an impressive collection of periodicals. It includes some remarkable titles such as "The Silent Worker," "The Deaf American," "The Deaf Life," and "Gallaudet's The Buff & Blue." Unfortunately, the UVU Sutherland archives did not have enough space to keep these valuable items safe.
After careful consideration and consultation with various stakeholders, I decided to donate the periodicals to the Museum of Deaf History, Arts, and Culture in Olathe, Kansas.
After careful consideration and consultation with various stakeholders, I decided to donate the periodicals to the Museum of Deaf History, Arts, and Culture in Olathe, Kansas.
Brooke Budzinski Grossinger
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Brooke Budzinski Grossinger, the Deaf Senior Community Relationship Manager at Sorenson Communications. Her unwavering support, along with that of Sorenson Communications, made it possible for me to cover the shipping costs to the museum. I cannot overstate my gratitude for their assistance; it has been instrumental in this preservation effort. Knowing that these periodicals are now in the capable hands of the Museum of Deaf History, Arts, and Culture in Olathe, Kansas, brings me immense relief.
When I discovered that the Gallaudet University Archives already had both original and digital copies, I was unsure what to do with them and considered recycling them. Thankfully, Brooke and Sorenson Communications came to the rescue!
When I discovered that the Gallaudet University Archives already had both original and digital copies, I was unsure what to do with them and considered recycling them. Thankfully, Brooke and Sorenson Communications came to the rescue!
The Deaf American Publications
The American Annals of the Deaf and Gallaudet's Buff & Blue Publications
The Deaf Americans publications featured Deaf Utahns, Robert J. Welsh, Dr. Robert G. Sanderson, Ray G. & Arthur W. Wenger, and Ned C. Wheeler
The Scanned Version of the UAD Bulletins
I want to express my heartfelt thanks to Robert G. Kerr, a proud 1959 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf and the former president of the Utah Association for the Deaf. He did an amazing job scanning the UAD Bulletin and The Silent Spotlight Newsletters! These documents capture the rich history of our organization, highlighting its activism, activities, achievements, and so much more. Did you know that the UAD Bulletin has been going strong since 1954? It's still being published today!
I had the pleasure of organizing these historical pieces and sending them to UVU's George Sutherland Archives for digitization. This has made accessing this treasure trove of information much easier for everyone. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to this project!
I had the pleasure of organizing these historical pieces and sending them to UVU's George Sutherland Archives for digitization. This has made accessing this treasure trove of information much easier for everyone. A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to this project!
Robert G. Kerr
Valerie G. Kinney's UAD Bulletins
Speaking of history, the UAD Bulletins shown in the photo below once belonged to Valerie G. Kinney, a dedicated member of the Utah Association of the Deaf. While I am not quite ready to part with them, I plan to donate them to the archives when the time feels right.
The UAD Bulletins, the Utah Association of the Deaf's publications
Shirley H. Platt Deaf Athletics Collection
Also, a big thank you to Shirley Hortie Platt, a cherished sports leader, who generously donated the Shirley H. Platt Deaf Athletics Collection from 1957 to 2015 to UVU's George Sutherland Archives for preservation and digitization. We truly appreciate her excellent contribution! Thank you all!
Shirley Hortie Platt
