The Utah Deaf History Museum
at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center
of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center
of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Compiled & Written By Jodi Christel Becker
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney
Published in 2013
Updated in 2025
Edited by Valerie G. Kinney
Published in 2013
Updated in 2025
Author's Note
In 2014, I had the pleasure of collaborating with Robert Kerr, Julio Enriquez, and Nancy Christensen Li, all of whom were part of the Utah Association of the Deaf Museum Committee. Together, we worked to bring our museum to life. With Pamela Mower's fresh and innovative ideas, we expanded our efforts to share the vibrant history of the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. This collaborative effort not only highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the community but also fostered a greater understanding and appreciation among visitors. We hope that our work inspires future generations to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. I warmly invite you to explore this unique journey through our rich heritage by visiting the museum whenever possible!
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Enjoy!
Jodi Christel Becker
Pamela Mower
Kenneth C. Burdett's Bulletin Boards
of the Utah School for the Deaf
of the Utah School for the Deaf
Kenneth C. Burdett is a significant figure in preserving the history of the Utah School for the Deaf. He graduated from the school in 1929 and later attended Gallaudet College, where he earned his degree in 1934. After completing his education, he returned to the Utah School for the Deaf to teach.
In 1976, Kenneth organized the first alum reunion, a deeply emotional event that provided an excellent opportunity for everyone to reconnect. He and his team carefully created eight impressive bulletin boards, each measuring 4 feet by 8 feet, which they filled with historical photos of the school. The use of Mod Podge helped ensure that these memories would be well preserved. This project allowed alums to fondly reflect on their time at the school and appreciate its rich history for years to come. The emotional impact of this dedication also strengthened the bonds among former students, allowing them to cherish their own experiences. As they walked through the display, many shared stories and laughter, creating new memories that would one day be celebrated at future reunions.
The displays showcased various aspects of school life, including academics, sports, graduations, vocational programs, and student activities. Kenneth's dedication played a crucial role in preserving the school's legacy and fostering strong connections among alums, encouraging everyone to cherish their shared memories. Alum gatherings celebrated everyday experiences, bringing together former and current students and nurturing a sense of pride and community. These events highlighted the school's values and achievements, reminding all participants of their role in continuing the school's legacy into the future.
In 1976, Kenneth organized the first alum reunion, a deeply emotional event that provided an excellent opportunity for everyone to reconnect. He and his team carefully created eight impressive bulletin boards, each measuring 4 feet by 8 feet, which they filled with historical photos of the school. The use of Mod Podge helped ensure that these memories would be well preserved. This project allowed alums to fondly reflect on their time at the school and appreciate its rich history for years to come. The emotional impact of this dedication also strengthened the bonds among former students, allowing them to cherish their own experiences. As they walked through the display, many shared stories and laughter, creating new memories that would one day be celebrated at future reunions.
The displays showcased various aspects of school life, including academics, sports, graduations, vocational programs, and student activities. Kenneth's dedication played a crucial role in preserving the school's legacy and fostering strong connections among alums, encouraging everyone to cherish their shared memories. Alum gatherings celebrated everyday experiences, bringing together former and current students and nurturing a sense of pride and community. These events highlighted the school's values and achievements, reminding all participants of their role in continuing the school's legacy into the future.
Kenneth C. Burdett
It is essential to reflect on Kenneth's contributions, which have played a pivotal role in preserving our school's rich history. However, we must remember that honoring his memory is just the beginning of our preservation journey. As alums and supporters of the Utah School for the Deaf, we share the responsibility of keeping our school's legacy alive. The fact that the bulletin boards are currently stored in a warehouse in Ogden, Utah, reminds us of the importance of keeping our memories alive and accessible. Accessible memories can serve as a bridge to future generations, allowing them to understand and appreciate the rich tapestry of experiences that have shaped our community.
In 2005, Bobby Giles, a graduate from the class of 1983, along with his talented team at Eye-Sign Media LLC—featuring Julio Diaz Jr. and Jim Harper—produced a remarkable historical record. Their video, "Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah: Summer 2005," features insightful interviews with notable alumni, including Ronald C. Burdett (Class of 1965), Darlene Stewart Cochran (Class of 1962), and C. Roy Cochran (Class of 1961). Their heartfelt stories truly highlight what makes our school special and the importance of continuing our preservation efforts.
Let's work together to cherish these memories for generations to come! By collaborating to create exhibits, events, and digital archives, we can celebrate our past and inspire ongoing engagement with our school's heritage. Together, we can ensure that the rich history and legacy of the Utah School for the Deaf remains alive and accessible. By sharing these stories and engaging with our community, we can inspire future generations to appreciate and honor our unique heritage and commit to ongoing preservation initiatives.
In 2005, Bobby Giles, a graduate from the class of 1983, along with his talented team at Eye-Sign Media LLC—featuring Julio Diaz Jr. and Jim Harper—produced a remarkable historical record. Their video, "Utah School for the Deaf in Ogden, Utah: Summer 2005," features insightful interviews with notable alumni, including Ronald C. Burdett (Class of 1965), Darlene Stewart Cochran (Class of 1962), and C. Roy Cochran (Class of 1961). Their heartfelt stories truly highlight what makes our school special and the importance of continuing our preservation efforts.
Let's work together to cherish these memories for generations to come! By collaborating to create exhibits, events, and digital archives, we can celebrate our past and inspire ongoing engagement with our school's heritage. Together, we can ensure that the rich history and legacy of the Utah School for the Deaf remains alive and accessible. By sharing these stories and engaging with our community, we can inspire future generations to appreciate and honor our unique heritage and commit to ongoing preservation initiatives.
A Slideshow of
Kenneth C. Burdett's Bulletin Boards
Kenneth C. Burdett's Bulletin Boards
Photograph by Duane L. Kinner
Planning a Museum at the superintendent's House
at the Utah School for the Deaf
at the Utah School for the Deaf
George Wilding, a proud graduate of the Idaho School for the Deaf, had an inspiring vision for the Utah Deaf community during Harlan Fulmer's tenure as superintendent from 1978 to 1983. He aimed to create a museum in the historic superintendent's residence on 20th Street, a site many in the community regarded as significant in Utah. The residence was not only a landmark but also a symbol of the rich history and culture of the Deaf community in the state. George believed that establishing a museum there would honor past achievements and provide a space for education and celebration of Deaf heritage.
George's idea was to collect cherished items from the past, such as photographs from the early 1900s, books written with feather pens, trophies, and other memorable accolades highlighting the rich history of the Deaf community. Many older Deaf individuals were excited about the prospect of contributing their personal belongings and sharing their stories with future generations. For instance, one alumnus had an old leather basketball from the 1920s, while another woman expressed her desire to donate a beautiful dress she had crafted during her time at the school. The excitement was tangible as they gathered to share their cherished items, each carrying not just sentimental value but also significant cultural importance that highlights the achievements of the Deaf community throughout the years. Every story they shared added depth and richness to the legacy they aimed to preserve.
Unfortunately, despite the enthusiasm and support from the community, the state of Utah decided not to fund the museum. This disappointing decision left many community members feeling disheartened, and the plans for the museum ultimately fell through. In 1979, the superintendent chose to repurpose the former home into the Parent-Infant Program, which continued to serve an essential purpose for the community. While the lack of funding for the museum was a setback, it also led to the development of innovative programs, such as the Parent-Infant Program, which directly addressed the needs of families in the area. This shift in focus allowed for a different kind of legacy to emerge—one that prioritized immediate community support over historic preservation.
George's idea was to collect cherished items from the past, such as photographs from the early 1900s, books written with feather pens, trophies, and other memorable accolades highlighting the rich history of the Deaf community. Many older Deaf individuals were excited about the prospect of contributing their personal belongings and sharing their stories with future generations. For instance, one alumnus had an old leather basketball from the 1920s, while another woman expressed her desire to donate a beautiful dress she had crafted during her time at the school. The excitement was tangible as they gathered to share their cherished items, each carrying not just sentimental value but also significant cultural importance that highlights the achievements of the Deaf community throughout the years. Every story they shared added depth and richness to the legacy they aimed to preserve.
Unfortunately, despite the enthusiasm and support from the community, the state of Utah decided not to fund the museum. This disappointing decision left many community members feeling disheartened, and the plans for the museum ultimately fell through. In 1979, the superintendent chose to repurpose the former home into the Parent-Infant Program, which continued to serve an essential purpose for the community. While the lack of funding for the museum was a setback, it also led to the development of innovative programs, such as the Parent-Infant Program, which directly addressed the needs of families in the area. This shift in focus allowed for a different kind of legacy to emerge—one that prioritized immediate community support over historic preservation.
George Wilding, mid-1980s
USD Superintendent's Residence
The Failure of Establishing a Museum
at Utah School for the Deaf
at Utah School for the Deaf
In 1981, Ned C. Wheeler, a dedicated graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf from the class of 1933, embarked on a heartfelt journey to create a museum honoring the school's rich history. His deep affection for the institution was evident in all his efforts, as he aimed to share its remarkable legacy with everyone. The Utah School for the Deaf, a place of great significance, was more than just a school; it was a community, a home, and a source of pride. Tragically, after his passing later that year, his dream of establishing a museum went unfulfilled, leaving behind a poignant reminder of his commitment to a place that held immense significance for him and for the entire Utah Deaf community.
As the years passed, particularly in the late 1980s, the school's vibrant heritage faced significant challenges due to mainstreaming, which began to overshadow its unique traditions. The construction of the new Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind Administration building in 1993 brought about further painful changes; the museum Ned envisioned, a place that would have preserved the school's rich history, no longer had a home. Sadly, beloved sports trophies were lost during the move, and other cherished artifacts could not be displayed at the new facility due to limited space. This situation deeply saddened the Utah Deaf community, leaving many heartbroken over the loss of items that represented cherished memories and a proud history for everyone connected to the school. The emotions surrounding these changes were profound, reflecting a collective sense of heartbreak for a beloved past that had shaped their identities.
As the years passed, particularly in the late 1980s, the school's vibrant heritage faced significant challenges due to mainstreaming, which began to overshadow its unique traditions. The construction of the new Utah Schools for the Deaf and the Blind Administration building in 1993 brought about further painful changes; the museum Ned envisioned, a place that would have preserved the school's rich history, no longer had a home. Sadly, beloved sports trophies were lost during the move, and other cherished artifacts could not be displayed at the new facility due to limited space. This situation deeply saddened the Utah Deaf community, leaving many heartbroken over the loss of items that represented cherished memories and a proud history for everyone connected to the school. The emotions surrounding these changes were profound, reflecting a collective sense of heartbreak for a beloved past that had shaped their identities.
Ned C. Wheeler
Establishing a Utah Deaf History Museum
at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center
at the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center
Robert G. Kerr, a 1959 graduate of the Utah School for the Deaf, has played a vital role in our community as a board member of the Utah Association of the Deaf. He has been instrumental in the efforts of the Utah Association of the Deaf Museum Committee, envisioning the Robert G. Sanderson Community Center as the ideal location for our museum. This center serves not only as a hub for cultural preservation but also as a space that promotes education and awareness about the rich history and contributions of the Deaf community in Utah. Robert’s passion and dedication have inspired many to engage with and support this vital initiative.
Thanks to the support from the Division of Services of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, along with contributions from Philippe Montalette, President of the Utah Association of the Deaf, and Marilyn Tiller Call, Director of the Sanderson Community Center, this dream is becoming a reality.
Our museum is not just about preserving our history; it is a joyful celebration of our shared experiences and the unique spirit that makes our community special. This community-driven endeavor will foster connection and understanding, allowing us to honor our past while inspiring future generations. We invite everyone to join us on this exciting journey as we create a space that reflects our rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Thanks to the support from the Division of Services of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, along with contributions from Philippe Montalette, President of the Utah Association of the Deaf, and Marilyn Tiller Call, Director of the Sanderson Community Center, this dream is becoming a reality.
Our museum is not just about preserving our history; it is a joyful celebration of our shared experiences and the unique spirit that makes our community special. This community-driven endeavor will foster connection and understanding, allowing us to honor our past while inspiring future generations. We invite everyone to join us on this exciting journey as we create a space that reflects our rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Robert G. Kerr
A Museum at the
Idaho School for the Deaf
Idaho School for the Deaf
On another note, I want to highlight the inspiring work of David "Jerry" Wilding, an Idaho Deaf historian and brother of George Wilding. In 1975, he founded the museum at the Idaho School for the Deaf, which continues to thrive today. This museum serves as a vital resource for preserving the history and culture of the Deaf community in Idaho, offering educational programs and exhibits that celebrate their heritage. David "Jerry" Wilding's dedication has made a lasting impact, inspiring future generations to appreciate the rich contributions of Deaf individuals.
David "Jerry" Wilding
