1 10 24 https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/6c5c1533e79bf2b3d06765893ed108b0.jpg d4506db14b169bdb0744b3e4d9432551 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Wood Engraving Physical Dimensions The actual physical size of the original image Extent: 13 x 17 cm. (5 x 6 3/4 in.) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Chickering Hall, Fifth Avenue, New York Description An account of the resource Chickering Hall with St. Ann's Church visible to the left. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jas. Wilson & Son Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/collections/wallach-division-picture-collection">Mid-Manhattan Picture Collection</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available <a href="http://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e2-eb67-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99">Art and Picture Collection, New York Public Library Digital Collections.</a> Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Unknown (prior to 1894) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource The copyright and related rights status of this item has been reviewed by The New York Public Library, but we were unable to make a conclusive determination as to the copyright status of the item. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Wood Engraving Type The nature or genre of the resource Still Image Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Universal Unique Identifier (UUID): d38036e0-c55b-012f-4e20-58d385a7bc34 https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/ed1930c365d57f924eb6705aa8eb35cc.jpg d0cd90edcdf28668226f46e8c80836dd Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Extent: 1 print : half tone Physical Dimensions The actual physical size of the original image 24 x 32 cm. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Chickering Hall, North West corner of Fifth Avenue and 18th Street Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available <a href="https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/5e66b3e8-c706-d471-e040-e00a180654d7"></a><a href="http://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/5e66b3e8-c706-d471-e040-e00a180654d7">The Miriam and Ira D. Wallach Division of Art, Prints and Photographs: Print Collection, The New York Public Library</a><a href="https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/5e66b3e8-c706-d471-e040-e00a180654d7"> Digital Collections</a> Description An account of the resource Photo of Chickering Hall, with St. Ann's Church visible on the left. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/collections/the-eno-collection-of-new-york-city-views#/?tab=about">The Eno Collection of New York City views.</a> Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource Date unavailable (prior to 1894) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource The copyright and related rights status of this item has been reviewed by The New York Public Library, but we were unable to make a conclusive determination as to the copyright status of the item. Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Halftone photomechanical prints Type The nature or genre of the resource Still Image Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Universal Unique Identifier (UUID): 342b0c90-c5f1-012f-e411-58d385a7bc34 https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/856daf3c592ecb640d06ae0d343847bc.png 8e73a25513581fa7260cb5fcc8c0bd17 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document CHURCH FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB. [By a brief notice in our last number, information was given concerning the undertaking of the Rev. Mr. Gallaudet, in behalf of the educated deaf mutes cf the city of New York. As an evidence that matters are going on toward a successful issue, We give the following report of a public meeting which was held on Thursday evening, the 3rd of March last, in the small chapel of the University; which has been sent to us for publication in the ANNALS EDITOR] AT half past seven o’clock, Rt. Rev. Dr. Wainwright, the Provisional Bishop of the Diocese of New a York, took the chair, and having opened the meeting with prayer, briefly stated the object which had called together so many friends of the deaf and dumb. He alluded to the large number of deaf mutes in the city who are deprived of the ordinary access to the means of grace, and said that they had assembled to consider a plane which had been proposed, to offer to this class of persons the privilege of public worship in their own language of signs. Having spoken of the qualifications of Mr. Gallaudet to enter upon this sphere of usefulness, and of the intimate social relations which existed between him and that portion of the community for. whom he desired specially to labor, the Bishop remarked, that this idea of establishing a church. for deaf mutes was not an untried scheme, for the experiment had already been tried for five months, in that very room, with a truly encouraging result. On motion of Gen. Wetmore, seconded by Dr. Peet, President of the New York lnstitutioni for the Deaf and Dumb, Professor Jacob Van Nostrand was appointed the Secretary of the meeting. [170] Mr. Gallaudet then came forward and spoke substantially as follows: Right Reverend Sir, Ladies and Gentlemen: It would be a pleasing task for me to- trace the rise and progress of the education of deaf mutes, from the establishment of the Institution at Hartford, Conn., to the one which has been recently founded in Louisiana, making fifteen now in active operation in different parts of the country; to tell of the persevering and self-denying labors of those who have consecrated their time and their talents to this great work; and to notice the various improvements which have been made in the process of shedding light upon minds so long shroud. ed in darkness; but time will not permit me to take up so vast a subject. I have called you together, my Christian brethren, that I may speak to you of a humble project of my own, and let me, I beseech you, tell a plain and unvarnished tale. When I make use of the pronoun I, do not consider me egotistical, but rather look upon me as an instrument in the hands of Providence; for really, when I look back upon What has been accomplished, it seems as if I had done nothing of myself. The successive events which have thus far taken place are simply these. In the summer of 1850, I was, in the providence of God, admitted to the precious privileges and great responsibilities of a minister of Christ. Soon afterward, my attention was particularly turned toward the deaf-mute residents of this city, and I felt it to be -my duty to do something for their improvement. Having obtained permission from the rector and vestry of St. Stephen’s Church to use the vestry-room, I appointed a weekly evening gathering of deaf mutes, at which I might use with them some short devotional exercises, explain to them a portion of Scripture, and give them some general information upon various topics of interest. For several Weeks the number in attendance was only four or five. But soon it increased so rapidly that we were obliged to seek out other quarters, and finally removed to the schoolroom, No. 59 Bond St., where the meetings are still held on Friday evening. The average attendance has been thirty or [171] thirty-five, there having been present on several occasions, fifty or sixty. At length the idea forced itself upon my- mind, that ought to attempt to gather these persons around me in pastoral relations, and to establish for them a church. This idea gained strength from time to time, and having obtained the unanimous consent of the rectors of the different Episcopal churches in this city, I commenced holding the regular services of our church on the first Sunday of October, 1852, in this room in which we are now assembled. I have the morning service with the voice, that the parents, children, other relatives and friends of deaf mutes, may have the opportunity of joining with them in forming one parish. The afternoon I devote to the deaf mutes, translating to them our service,-and preaching the same sermon which I use in the forenoon. The deaf mutes have apparently taken great interest in this service, and have been present several times to the number of seventy and eighty. The responses of the service are at present given only by Mr. Gamage, a deaf mute gentleman, connected with the Institution as an instructor, but I entertain the opinion that eventually, the whole congregation will be able to unite in them. The Holy Communion is administered on the third Sunday of every month, and among the communicants there are twelve deaf mutes. I have had occasion to use among this class of persons all the offices of our church, except that for the burial of the dead. I desire to express my gratitude for the great kindness which a has been shown toward my project on all sides, and especially--for the liberal appropriation of three hundred dollars, made by the vestry of Trinity Church for the payment of the rent of this chapel during the present year. The practical question now arises, shall we have —a church building in which to assemble for public worship, and attached to which there can be a lecture-room, reading-room, and library, for the moral and intellectual improvement of the persons whose cause I plead this evening? If I can secure a piece of ground, I have no doubt at all as to the feasibility of raising money enough to erect the church, and I shall be more than satisfied if the obtaining of the ground is [172] effected by this meeting. I do not ask for a large church~ two common lots will be amply sufiicient. May I not hope to have them speedily? After his address, at the request of the bishop, and with a view of showing the definite and precise character of the sign-language, Mr. Gallaudet translated the creed, explaining the particular significance of each sign as he proceeded, After which he repeated it, without interruption, in the same way as he would do in divine service. There were quite a number of deaf mutes present at this meeting, for the benefit of whom, Mr. Gallaudet reported the proceedings and speeches, in which they took a lively interest. Mr. Robert Gracie moved the following resolution: “Resolved, That a committee of twelve be appointed to counsel and assist Rev. Mr. Gallaudet, in carrying out the details of his undertaking.” Mr. Gracie expressed his interest in the work and his readiness to cooperate in it. Mr. Wetmore said it gave him pleasure to second the motion of his friend, Mr. Gracie. He had long been an attentive observer of the benevolent efforts of Mr. Gallaudet to promote the present and future welfare of the deaf and dumb, and was happy in the opportunity of bearing testimony to the merits of this most excellent enterprise. It would not be expected of him to speak of what had been done, or what was yet to be accomplished for the benefit of that interesting portion of the human family. There sat beside him one far better qualified to discuss that subject, and whose opinions would be entitled to much greater weight than any which he, Mr. W., could advance. The gentleman to whom he referred—President Peet—-had endeared himself to every friend of deaf-mute education; his name had become memorable in the annals of science; and his works of benevolence would secure to him a monument more enduring than marble. Mr. Wetmore said he was proud of the city in which his lot was cast, for the number and the excellence of its chari- [173] table and religious institutions, He sincerely hoped that these good works would be still further extended, and that among the first to receive assurance of a cordial and adequate support, would be that so ably presented to the notice of the meeting by Gallaudet. After some further observations, Mr. Wetmore expressed his earnest hoped that those who shared in the wealth and public spirit of the community, would bid Mr. Gallaudet God-speed in his undertaking. Gen. J. Watson Webb, editor of the Courier and Enquirer, then moved the following resolution : "Resolved, That the object brought before this meeting by Rev. Thomas Gallaudet, is one calculated to call forth the cordial encouragement and support of this community.” ln moving this resolution, Gen. ,Webb said, that though he had come to this meeting feeling not a little interested in its object, yet it had been with a belief that no such plan was at present feasible. He was now satisfied on that point. The statements of Mr. Gallaudet had removed all his doubts and difficulties. The object should receive his hearty advocacy and aid; and he had no doubt that the liberality of the citizens of New York would soon bring the experiment to a successful issue. The resolution was seconded by Dr. Peet, who spoke as follows: From my position it may be expected, that I should express some opinion in relation to the enterprise, to promote, which, is the object of our present meeting. The deaf-mute population of this city, numbering as has been stated, from a hundred to a hundred and thirty, is made up for the most part of those who have been inmates of the institution under my care ; the remainder are foreigners principally from Germany: and the British Isles, and those who have been instructed in other American institutions. It were unnatural to suppose that, after laboring for so many years to bring, them from the lowest point, I had almost said, of intellectual existence, to the dignity of social and thinking beings, when they leave us we should cease [174] to feel an interest in their welfare. As a son, who has reached his majority, leaves the home of his childhood, and goes——it may be far away——to work out his own destiny, is followed .by the benedictions and prayers of his anxious parents; so these graduates of our institution continue to be the objects of our earnest solicitude, and to receive, as circumstances may require, our counsel and encouragement wherever, in the providence of God, their lot may be cast. We have in our institution no church organization. To incorporate such a feature into our system of instruction would not be politic or wise. Our pupils come to us from different denominations of Christians, and we do not directly interfere with the peculiarities of their religious belief. But it must not hence be inferred that religion is not inculcated, or that we fail to bring to our aid its sanctions in our system of government and instruction. The Bible, which is acknowledged by all sects, is the broad platform on which we stand. We teach the historic truths which it reveals; the existence and attributes of its great Author; the relations which subsist between him and his creatures, and the duties which on their part grow out of these relations. We trace the lives of those “who through faith and patience have inherited the promises.” We explain its divine precepts, its precious promises, its awful warnings. In short, we hold up this sacred book, which inculcates individual, personal accountability, and reveals the conditions of our acceptance with God, as the only rule of faith and practice. With minds stored with such truths and such principles of action, they leave us, and our responsibility ceases. Many of them are pious, and join such churches as they, or their friends may select. Others, still, by the blessing of God, on the perusal of his word and the simple lectures to which they attended on the Sabbath while at school—a copy of which they carry away with them—become converted, and attach themselves to the company of the redeemed. Most of them are isolated and widely separated from each other; and though they may be constant attendants upon the public [175] ministrations of the sanctuary, are yet precluded by the nature of their infirmity, from the privilege of social worship. But in this citythe case is different. Here is the home of a considerable number, Which is increased by imrnigrations from the country and from abroad——influenced by alike motive that leads professional and business men to resort hither. What reason can exist for withholding from them the means of grace within the reach of their more favored brethren who hear; the social and public worship of God; a pastor to break to them the bread of life——-to visit them in their afflictions——to gather their children into a Sunday-school—and to instruct and guide them in their way to heaven? To neglect them would be a dereliction of duty. ‘Said our Saviour, “the poor -ye have with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good.” The deaf mute may be embraced in this category, and during the period of his earthly ministry, no class of the afflicted received from him more compassionate attentions than they. In their deprivation and comparative obscurity, they are less influenced -by public opinion than other men. But like other men they are susceptible to sympathy and kindness. In a great city like this, where temptation meets them at every" corner, they are in danger of being enticed to places of improper resort, and liable to contract habits, and vices, and diseases, which will prove their ruin. Hence, they should be sought out, and encouraged to place themselves under the protecting shield of the gospel. It was remarked by Dr. Franklin, that the influence of the ‘Sabbath Would be great, if it produced no other effect than ‘to induce‘ men to wash their faces and hands and put on clean linen. But how mighty must this influence be, if, in addition to the formation of habits of personal cleanliness, it were to interrupt their worldly associations, and lead their minds to the contemplation of those great truths which pertain to their everlasting well-being. Should a place of public Worship for deaf mutes be permanently established in this city, some, who would not otherwise go any where, might be induced to come at first from [176] motives of curiosity, and finding its exercises interesting and instructive, might, by a little encouragement, become constant attendants. The distance of the Institution from the mass of the population, unpleasant weather, and the necessity of using a public conveyance, must render it inconvenient, if not impracticable, at times, even for those who value religious instruction, to be regular in their attendance upon the services of our chapel. But not only in a religious point of view is the enterprise in question important, but the collateral advantages are by no means inconsiderable. The deaf mute needs a friend to whom he can look for encouragement in his daily employment——one whom he can consult in the purchase and sale of property, in the execution of contracts, to see that he is not overreached and defrauded, and make explanations so as to secure a good understanding between him and his employer. But we derive an argument in favor of this undertaking from its indirect advantages, by contrasting the condition of the adult deaf and dumb, in London for instance, where no provision exists for their religious instruction and personal visitation. At the lowest computation, there are in that city one thousand deaf mutes, and the number has been estimated as high as fifteen hundred, a majority of whom may, perhaps, have been in some one or other of the English schools. In those schools pupils are received at a younger, and consequently leave at an earlier age, than in our American institutions. This course of policy is dictated by a desire to apprentice them at trades at the proper age—-—for such is the tone of public sentiment in England, that no deaf mute can find employment as a journeyman, unless he has passed through a regular apprenticeship. From the fact that the mind of a deaf mute is developed more slowly than that of a hearing child, it must be evident that his attainments, on leaving school at the age of fourteen or fifteen, must be very imperfect, even under the best intellectual training. Added to this his want of practical knowl- [177] edge.— the contrast between the workshop and the school— and the imperfect medium of intercourse between him and his master— it is not surprising that he should become impatient and dissatisfied. This feeling, which may have been produced or increased, in some cases, by the treatment of the master himself, must render him less attentive and faithful. Hence the master’s interests become affected—misunderstanding ensues— the indentures are broken, and the boy leaves his place. Such cases—and they are not unfrequent-— are deplorable; but those of the uninstructed still more so. In view of the destitution of this large class of persons, a society was formed a few years ago for their benefit. I had the pleasure of attending a meeting of its committee in the summer of 1851, convened to inquire if something could not be done to invigorate it, which, even then, had fallen into decay. Some of the features embodied in its programme of operations were impracticable, and hence too expensive and unwieldy. I have recently received intelligence that it has been given up. But had it confined itself to the two objects which I trust are contemplated in this undertaking, viz., biblical instruction and worship on the Sabbath, and a kind visitation and encouragement in their secular affairs, it would have proved an efficient agency for good. But though, in contrasting the condition of the deaf and dumb in this city, with that of those in the great metropolis of England, the advantage may be found on the side of the former, by reason of the difference in the usages of society, the conventional rules which regulate labor, and the greater experience and practical tact in some handicraft, which our pupils have acquired while under instruction; yet it is not such as to exempt them from trials and embarrassments, or render undesirable the interposition of kind oflices by. some friend and counselor. And who can better perform such offices than he to whom they are accustomed to look as their spiritual guide and pastor? One word more, Mr. President, and I have done. Nearly thirty-six years ago, the system of deaf-mute instruction was introduced into this country by the Rev. Thomas H. Gallaudet, [178] who first employed the language of signs as the medium of devotion and of social and public worship. In every institution which has since been established, this feature is embodied in its system of instruction. The son, following in the footsteps of the father, is the first to organize a church of the deaf and dumb, and institute a form of service conducted in this silent language addressed only to the eye. May it be his happiness and reward to know, “when the Lord writeth up the people, that this man was born there.” With these remarks I cordially second the resolution. The next resolution was then moved by Rev. Dr. Haight, professor in the Episcopal General Theological Seminary. “Resolved, That St. Ann’s Church for the deaf mutes be commended to the favorable consideration of the clergy and laity of this city and vicinity, with the earnest expectation that its services may, ere long, be held in an appropriate ed. ifice, consecrated. to Almighty God.” Dr. Haight maintained that it was manifestly the duty of the Church, at once to press forward and occupy any field which the hand of Providence had evidently opened before her. Here they found such a case. The field was ready; there was no one else prepared or desirous to occupy it. There was the man, whose peculiar training had made him, of all others, the fittest for the execution of a work like this; and it was therefore the.bounden duty of the Church to strengthen his hands, and support him freely and fully. But besides the naked duty, it was a case singularly interesting, and qualified to enlist the feelings and sympathies of the community at large. He gave it his hearty approbation, and promised to use his best efforts to insure its success. The resolution was seconded by Rev. G. T. Bedell, rector of the Church of the Ascension, who warmly commended the design, and spoke favorably of Mr. Gallaudet. It was the duty of the church toimprove the advantage thus held out to her. He alluded to the isolation of the deaf and dumb, and the fact that they were beyond the reach of the ordinary means of grace. The gospel is now made to reach to distant heathen nations. But, without the execution of [179] this design, we should eventually have among us a class of unfortunates, who would be more inaccessible to the gospel than even the heathen themselves. Mr. John Carlin, the distinguished deaf-mute artist, delivered a brief address in the sign-language, which was translated by Prof. Bartlett. Mr. Carlin said that though he was a Presbyterian himself, yet he rejoiced in the privilege afforded him of public worship through the ministrations of Mr. Gallaudet, and hoped that this movement might result in great good to all deaf mutes. Prof. Van Nostrand very briefly expressed his good-wishes for the success of the undertaking, and pointed out some of the important advantages which must thereby accrue to that portion of the community, in whose welfare he and his colleagues took such a deep interest. He cordially concurred in the remarks of Dr. Peet. The resolutions were unanimously adopted. A gentleman then rose and said that though unaccustomed to speak in public, he could not refrain from expressing his interest in the undertaking, and pledged himself to raise five hundred dollars in furtherance of the object. Gen. Wetmore stated that he was authorized by Dr. Peet to say, that he would give an exhibition of the pupils of the Institution, the net proceeds of which would be devoted to the proposed church. The president of the meeting having been authorized to appoint the committee, made it to consist of the following gentlemen : The Rev. Drs. Haight, Vinton and Cutler; Rev. Messrs. Bedell, Geer and Weston; Messrs. Wetmore, Webb, Gracie, Curtiss, Weeks and Winthrop. Bishop Wainwright, Dr. Peet and Mr. Augustin Averill were subsequently added to this committee. On motion of Dr. Peet the meeting adjourned. [180] CHURCH FOR THE DEAF AND DUMB The undersigned, appointed a Committee, at a meeting held on Thursday, the third day of March, instant, to consider the expediency of providing a permanent place of worship for the deaf and dumb, submit the following statement: The number of the deaf and dumb, at present residing in this city, and who are chiefly the graduates of our Institution, is not far from one. hundred. This class of persons will increase with the increase of the general population, so‘ that instead of being reckoned by tens, as they now are, the time is not remote, when they will be counted by hundreds; for the same motives, which induce professional and business men to resort hither, will also lead them to select the city as the place of their residence. Since it must be obvious, from the nature of their infirmity, that they can not enjoy the privilege of public worship, conducted in the ordinary mode through the medium of vocal speech, it is the dictate of Christian philanthropy to make provision to meet their spiritual wants, by the erection of a church edifice, and by instituting a form of service adapted to their condition, in which they can participate intelligibly and profitably through the medium. of their own vernacular language of signs. No man can habitually absent himself from the ministrations of God’s house, without endangering his best interests for eternity; and the deaf and dumb, though compelled from necessity to forego these privileges, are not an exception to this remark, especially, as some of them are wholly untaught, and others still have too imperfect acquaintance with language to understand written discourse. Their only means, then, for religious instruction and improvement is through the language of action. But not to dwell upon the importance of this enterprise, in a religious point of view, which none can question, there are many collateral advantages which plead earnestly in its behalf. It is reasonable to hope that it will lead them to a better observance of the Lord’s day; withdraw them from temptation, or give them strength to resist it; inculcate the virtues of industry, frugality, temperance; promote their intellectual improvement, and by awakening mutual sympathy, prompt to acts of charity and benevolence. This undertaking is not to be regarded in the light of an experiment merely. For five months past a small congregation of deaf mutes has been assembled on the Lord’s day, in the small chapel of the University, which enjoys the ministrations of the Rev. Thomas Gallaudet, one of the professors in our Institution, through whose commendable efforts it has been gathered. A Church has been organized under the sanction of the Provisional Bishop of the Diocese; the Communion has been celebrated, and there are several prepared to present themselves for’ ‘Confirmation. In view of the foregoing brief statement of the wants of the deaf and dumb, and of what has already been done in their behalf, the way is prepared for an urgent appeal to the benevolent and wealthy of our citizens for funds to erect a Church for their benefit. To secure this object the sum of twenty thousand dollars is needed. The appeal is made in the confident belief that it will-be heard and answered. No class of the afllicted, during the personal ministrations of our Saviour, received from him more compassionate attentions than they. [181] By the blessing of God on this instrumentality, their temporal interests will be promoted, and they will be taught to look with the eye of faith to that better land, where tears shall be wiped from all faces, and where the ears, closed to all earthly music, shall waken to the symphonies of angels’ harps. "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” JONA. M. WAINWRIGHT, CYRUS CURTIS, BENJAMIN C. CUTLER, ROBERT D. WEEKS, BENJAMIN I. HAIGHT, PROSPER M. WETMOBE, GREGORY T. BEDELL, BENJAMIN R. WINTHROP, FRANCIS VINTON, HARVEY P. PEET, G. JARVIS GEER, ROBERT GRACIE, SULLIVAN H. WESTON, AUGUSTIN AVERILL, J. WATSON WEBB, W. A: SPENCER. New York, March 14, 1353. *** Subscriptions will be gratefully received by either of the above named Committee, or by Mr. Averill, who has kindly consented to act as Treasurer. His address is No. 47 South Street. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Journal article Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Church for the Deaf and Dumb Description An account of the resource Article on the creation of services for the deaf in New York. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Rev. Thomas Gallaudet Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived The American Annals for the Deaf and Dumb Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available <a href="https://gaislandora.wrlc.org/islandora/object/americanannals%3A15432/pages">via Gallaudet University Archives</a> Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1853-04 https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/18eaa18fbdbd4450160d09d376e94b88.jpg 561cb7c94ffa415854a6cdce8bc72060 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Book Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Cornelia: or The Deaf-Mute Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Rev. Henry W. Lee, D.D., Rector of St. Luke's Church, Rochester Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://anglicanhistory.org/about.html">via Project Canterbury</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available David Hoyt Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1853 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Documents hosted on Project Canterbury are believed to be in the public domain unless otherwise indicated; for-profit use of any material on this site is explicitly forbidden. Reproduction for study or religious purposes is permitted under the terms of the <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/">Creative Commons Deed.</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Book https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/3f48036c3664b147d6b58f28ff5fd86e.png 24215733b93890458c3a48821fd7aee6 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document Educated Deaf Mutes.- A meeting will be held this evening, in the University, Washington-square, at which Rev. Mr. Gallaudet proposes to state some interesting facts with regard to the educated deaf mutes of this community, of whom there are at least 130, and to set forth an undertaking by which he hopes to accomplish much good among them. Bishop Wainwright will be present. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Article Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Educated Deaf Mutes Description An account of the resource An article announcing a meeting to organize a church. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived via <a href="https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/browser">TimesMachine</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available The New York Times Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1893-03-03 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="https://help.nytimes.com/hc/en-us/categories/115001547468-Permissions-policies">Copyright held by The New York Times</a> https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/ad06a4bf752d0ed34f2a44ba1ab8c0d5.png 29b687d226d9a7933d71cbd853c4a704 https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/6a90ad71da0f0d2acc305c297dd9d38c.pdf 36ef7fefe0173580fbc02636a0a93e85 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Book Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource First Annual Report of the Church Mission to Deaf-Mutes Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource The Church Mission to Deaf-Mutes Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="http://anglicanhistory.org/">via Project Canterbury</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available J.H. Duyckinck, Stationer & Printer, 164 Pearl Street. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1873 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Documents hosted on Project Canterbury are believed to be in the public domain unless otherwise indicated; for-profit use of any material on this site is explicitly forbidden. Reproduction for study or religious purposes is permitted under the terms of the <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/">Creative Commons Deed</a>. Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document post script: “When we can get a good time, I want to have a serious talk with you about your looking forward to the ministry. Can you take supper with us next Saturday at 6pm?” Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Letter Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Letter to Henry W. Syle from Thomas Gallaudet Description An account of the resource In this letter, Gallaudet instructs Syle on conducting a Bible Class on his behalf. He makes arrangments for Syle to take over the class regularly. In a post script Gallaudet asks to speak with Syle about joining the ministry. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Thomas Gallaudet Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Henry W. Syle Papers, Box 3 of 39; Folder 6 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Gallaudet University Archives and Deaf Collections Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1869-09-12 Type The nature or genre of the resource Personal Correspondence https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/83b2129e02af4e4690d7a36176ce685d.jpg 04a5f16daf1eabeb8e770bdd121e2679 Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Wood Engravings Physical Dimensions The actual physical size of the original image 19 x 12 cm. (7 1/2 x 4 3/4 in.) Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource New York Historical Society -- Second Avenue, cor. Eleventh Street ; New York Society Library -- 67 University Place Description An account of the resource The congregation moved to the lecture rooms of the New York Historical Society in fall of 1857. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/collections/wallach-division-picture-collection#/?tab=navigation">Mid-Manhattan Picture Collection</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available <a href="https://digitalcollections.nypl.org/items/510d47e0-cc1c-a3d9-e040-e00a18064a99">The New York Public Library Digital Collections</a> Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 187- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Public Domain via the New York Public Library Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Image Type The nature or genre of the resource Still Image Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Universal Unique Identifier (UUID): 8f046240-c55c-012f-768a-58d385a7bc34 https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/ea2eaa498a82af5bc134e9d82fb620bb.png a6c46f380368612726607d6fc2ec9f4e https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/c87490ff2f172b6aca3715c985f864dd.pdf b8c021ab1afe73ae237ac0f75054929a Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Text Any textual data included in the document PREACHING TO THE DEAF AND DUMB. MANY of our readers may have heard of the church for deaf-mutes in Eighteenth Street in this city; but few, we presume, have witnessed its services, and all will be glad to see the faithful picture given on the preceding page. The first services of this church were conducted by its present rector, the Rev. Thomas Gallaudet, in the smaller chapel of the New York University, on the first Sunday of October, 1852. In this place it struggled for existence during five years, gradually gaining in strength and means, until its removal to the Lecture-room of the New York Historical Society Building, corner of Second Avenue and Eleventh Street. Here its prospects improved so much that it was deemed expedient to purchase, in July last, the church and parsonage in West Eighteenth Street, originally built by Christ Church. In this church its services began on the first Sunday of August, 1859. Since then it has steadily worked its way toward permanent success. In this church are gathered adult deaf-mutes (graduates of various Institutions), their families, and others willing to promote their welfare, the Sunday services being oral at half-past ten A.M. and half-past seven P.M., and in the sign-language at three P.M. We present a sketch of the latter service as the Rector and his silent congregation appeared on Sunday afternoon, March 11. The deaf-mute young man at the lecturn was acting as clerk, giving the responses in the service according to the common Prayer-book. The rector translated on this occasion the parable of the Prodigal Son. This church is doing great good among the deaf-mute residents of this city and its vicinity. Its rector makes it his duty to visit deaf-mutes in their seasons of sickness and trouble, and to endeavor to help them to situations in which to earn their daily bread. Since he left his position as instructor in the New York Institution for the Deaf and Dumb in the fall of 1858, he has found, by personal application, situations for upward of fifty deaf-mutes. This is the first church of its kind in the world. Within the past year a similar one has been established in London. We close this brief sketch with a list of its present vestry: C. C. Lathrop and S. R. Comstock, Wardens; George R. Jackson, W. O. Fitzgerald, Josiah Jones, John O. Bronson, M.D., C. A. Budd, M.D., Franklin Campbell, D. Reynolds Budd, and James L. Harris, Vestrymen. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data Article Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Preaching to the Deaf and Dumb Description An account of the resource Article with engraving depicting Rev. Thomas Gallaudet holding a signed service at St. Ann's Church. Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Harper's Weekly Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available <a href="https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015006963360;view=1up;seq=167">via Hathi Trust</a> Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1860-03-24 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Public Domain https://dev.jannellelegg.com/files/original/a99923b1260b31ac8df7b46d98e5fb88.png 04aa31ff6c4385378cb973c19f3a3294 Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Original Format The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data A meeting of persons interested in the success of this Church, was held on Wednesday evening, May 19th, 1858, in the Lecture Room of the New-York Historical Society, corner of Second Avenue and Eleventh-street. The Rt. Rev. Horatio Potter, D. D., Provisional Bishop of the Diocese, took the Chair, and requested the Rev. Thomas Gallaudet, Rector of the Church, to open the Meeting with prayer. The Rev. Dr. Eigenbrodt having been appointed Secretary, the Rector read the following: STATEMENT. The first services of "St. Ann's Church for Deaf-Mutes," were held on Sunday, October 3, 1852, in the smaller chapel of the New-York University. In relation to its progress up to the present time, I propose to speak very briefly, making its striking points stand out each one by itself; rather than aiming at a chronological arrangement. The name of St. Ann's was fixed upon for its shortness and simplicity, as it was thought to be best to join to the general name of the parish the speciality which called it into being, that, under the corporate title of "St. Ann's Church for Deaf-Mutes," it might be known throughout its subsequent course as peculiarly the spiritual home of deaf-mutes and their families. It was at first supposed that the name, being a contraction for Anna, commemorated that venerable prophetess in Israel, who gave thanks at the sight of the infant Emanuel; but afterwards it was suggested by one more learned in such matters than ourselves, that there was a tradition in the early church that the mother of the blessed Virgin Mary was honored as St. Ann. It matters [3/4] not greatly as to the person commemorated--some devout matron of the great communion of saints. We have a graceful and euphonious name, and one also rich in meaning, as Anna signifies gracious--a giver. We have, at any rate, the reality--a Christian Church--"in which the pure word of God is preached, and the sacraments duly administered according to Christ's ordinance." God grant that, in his providence, "St. Ann's Church for Deaf-Mutes" may prove a gracious giver of gospel blessings to all who may come under her influence, especially to that portion of her spiritual children who have been so graphically described as the "children of silence." It may not be amiss to state in plain language what has been already intimated in these remarks upon the name. Our church was founded to gather in not only deaf-mutes, but their children, (who, with but very few exceptions, hear and speak,) and all others willing to promote their welfare. Our services, held now every Lord's Day in this beautiful and appropriate room, where the sittings are free to all, are, therefore, conducted vocally morning and evening, and by signs in the afternoon. In this way, a self-supporting parish is gradually being built up. Deaf-mutes, by themselves, would not be able to maintain a church; besides, their mingling with hearing and speaking friends in the pleasant associations of parish life, are a very great advantage to them, as intercommunication can be easily established, either by means of writing or using the manual alphabet. Deaf-mutes are often present at the vocal services, reading the service and the lessons from their prayer-books and bibles--a single sign from the minister indicating to them the places. On the Sundays when the Holy Communion is administered, we see a large number of deaf-mutes at the morning service, for they have thus far constituted a majority of our communicants. Whenever a brother clergyman favors us with a sermon in the evening, this is translated for the benefit of the deaf-mutes who are present. When it comes our turn to worship in a consecrated temple, free from debt--and to gain strength enough to support an assistant minister to be trained in the use of the sign-language, preparatory to filling the Rector's place, should he be called away--the two could so manage that translations at all the vocal services would render them attractive and instructive to the deaf-mute portion of the parish. This earnest gaze into the future leads me to digress a moment. With our church fairly established in this city, having two clergymen conversant with the sign-language, [4/5] we could be of material service to deaf-mutes residing at a distance. In these days of rapid traveling, baptisms, marriages, visitations to the dying, burials among deaf-mutes, could be attended to with but little difficulty through quite a wide extent of country. Convocations might be held at prominent points, and deaf-mutes exhorted to do their duty as Christian men and women. This would open a wide field of useful labor. It is understood, of course, that in referring to deaf-mutes as members of our parish, and thus scattered abroad in the cities and villages of our land, I mean educated deaf-mutes, those who, having experienced the fostering care of the Institution, have passed out to take their parts in the busy hum of life. The Institution and the Church each has its appropriate work in leading these children of silence along that gracious pathway whose end is eternal life. The pupils of the various institutions of our country are blessed with religious services conducted in their own chapels by faithful teachers. The mission of this parish is one of peace and good-will to deaf-mute young men and women--our own comrades, brethren, standing more emphatically shoulder to shoulder with us in the great issues of time and eternity. The number of adult deaf-mutes now residing in New-York and its suburbs is estimated to be between 125 and 150. I cannot speak with precision, for as yet I have not had the time to make such examinations as would satisfy me upon this point. The greater portion are from time to time in attendance upon our services, and scarcely a Sunday passes without there being present some deaf-mute from a distance, making a visit to the city on business or pleasure. Thus it will be seen that, in the very infancy of our undertaking, we have the opportunity of ministering to no inconsiderable numbers of immortal beings, who, without this church, would be left in a great measure as sheep without a shepherd. The following statistics will indicate some of the work which has been accomplished by our parish from its commencement in October 1852, to the present time. There have been baptized 11 adults, 10 of whom were deaf-mutes; and 33 children, 14 of whom had deaf-mute parents. There have been confirmed 36 persons, 26 of whom were deaf-mutes; there have been married 21 couples, 10 of which were deaf-mutes; there have been 30 burials, 8 for deaf-mute persons and 2 for children of deaf-mute parents; there have been received 83 communicants, 43 of whom were deaf-mutes. Death and removal to other parishes has [5/6] reduced the number of communicants at present actually connected with the church to 52 persons, 28 of whom are deaf-mutes. To convey a perfectly distinct impression in relation to the details of this work, it should be stated that I went out from the city to perform the marriage ceremony for five of the above-mentioned deaf-mute couples, and one of the burials for the dead; that one of the children, of deaf-mute parents, was baptized in North Adams, Mass.; and that a deaf-mute young woman came from the northern part of this State to receive baptism. Where deaf-mutes have removed to other places, they have generally received letters to the Rectors of churches there, and have become regular attendants upon public worship, deriving great pleasure from reading the service in the Prayer Book: so that the good influences started here have been, it is to be hoped, continued. We have had a small Sunday School, in which have been children of deaf-mute parents. All have been trained in the Catechism. During the progress of our work, I have devoted as much time as I could spare from the daily duties pressing on me at the institution, to visiting, paying special attention to those deaf-mutes who were in sickness and trouble. I have, on numerous occasions, administered the Holy Communion to deaf-mutes upon the bed of death, and have had the satisfaction of beholding the consolations of our blessed religion finding their way through serene eyes, and bearing peace to wounded hearts. Words cannot adequately describe these silent ministrations, performed, I humbly trust, in accordance with the directions of Him who came to seek and to save that which was lost. I have witnessed among deaf-mutes some of the most touching evidences of that inner life which is implanted in the breasts of the faithful by the Blessed Comforter. But, my brethren, so long as we are working out our Master's cause upon earth, we must keep material matters in view as well as spiritual. Within a few months after our first Sunday service, our Building Fund was started. In relation to the necessary sum to be obtained, and the best use to be made of it, circumstances from time to time have induced us to change our views and to modify our plans. We have always tried to act for the best, having reference to the future as well as the present. The whole amount raised in this fund, from all sources, is $19,860 72. From this was paid for our four lots on the south side of 26th-street, between the 6th and 7th Avenues, original cost $16,500; interest and expenses, before they could be held free from all incumbrances, $1,383 80; total, $17,883 80. [6/7] Since then we have paid on these lots, for taxes and expenses, $180 73. In connection with our removal to this room, in order to insure growth in parish strength, and thus contribute to the general success of our undertaking, we were obliged to expend for our new organ, and fixtures and kneeling-benches--all of which can be used in the proposed church--the sum of $658 54. We have cash in hand $352 65, and unpaid subscriptions amounting to $785--in all $1,137 65, as the nucleus of the sum which must yet be raised before we can build. Considering that we are engaged in establishing the only church which, in human probability, will ever be called for in this city to take special care of deaf-mutes and their families--and that in order to make it self-supporting, we must have room for five or six hundred persons at the vocal services--it is thought that we must secure $25,000, if we would erect an edifice suitable to our purpose. Deaf-mutes derive so much pleasure from the eye, that, without going to any extravagance, it seems proper that in their sanctuary for the worship of Almighty God, should be seen all the graces of Christian art. It is our determination to keep entirely out of debt in carrying on our undertaking to the result for which we have so long prayed and labored, viz.:--the erection of "St. Ann's Church for Deaf Mutes." We secured the building site of four lots, so that, in process of time, we might be able to put alongside of the church a building to contain a lecture-room, reading-room, library, philosophical and other apparatus, in which we could improve the intellectual condition of our deaf-mute brethren; but this plan we must keep in the back-ground for the present, though it is important, and I fully believe eventually practicable. Give us the church, and there I am confident we can collect the faithful, who will gradually be able to unfold all our plans for the benefit of those who are cut off from so many privileges enjoyed by their hearing and speaking companions. In relation to our parish funds, I will simply say that with $500 a year from Trinity Church, and occasional aid from kind friends outside of our parish, we have been able to meet the necessary expenses of sustaining our services and to pay the Rector a small salary, averaging about $250 a year. We have contributed a little to the general objects of the church at large, and we have taken care of our sick and poor. We receive the offerings of the people from Sunday to Sunday. In passing through the ordeal of removal from the University to this room--more than doubling our expenses--we have been a little cramped; though, upon [7/8] the whole, we have greatly improved our condition as a parish. Just at present, a very moderate amount of aid from our friends would be timely. Twenty-five dollars would settle every claim upon our Parish fund. This being paid, I think that we shall be able to keep everything squared up for the future, as we are constantly gaining parish strength. During the greater portion of our existence as a church, we have had a course of weekly evening lectures for deaf-mutes at No. 59 Bond-street. Before our Institution was removed from 50th-street to Washington Heights, several of the Professors took turns in lecturing; but latterly, I have been obliged to do this principally myself. During the fall and winter, I gave quite a literal translation into signs of Knickerbocker's History of New-York. I am now engaged in translating Dr. Kane's last work. I use a portion of the evening in giving an abstract of the news of the week. It will be recollected, perhaps, by some, that it was the weekly evening Bible-class, started in the vestry-room of St. Stephen's Church in the fall of 1850, which opened the way for the establishment of our parish. The Bible-class, on the first evening, consisted of one person. Have we not indeed grown up from the sprouting of a single mustard seed? Our Church is regularly incorporated and in union with the Convention of the diocese. At the last election, held on Easter Tuesday, Messrs. Cyrus Curtiss and C. C. Lathrop were chosen Wardens, and Messrs. Robert Gracie, Benjamin R. Winthrop, D. Henry Haight, Charles A. Budd, M. D., J. O. Bronson, M. D., Josiah Jones, Franklin Campbell and James L. Harris, Vestrymen. The last three are deaf-mutes. My Christian brethren, I have thus briefly attempted to set before you faithfully the actual growth and present position of "St. Ann's Church for Deaf-Mutes." God has brought us along a pleasant pathway of flowers and smiles. The petty trials we have had have all yielded to the combined sway of patience, perseverance and hope. We have had no spasms--scarcely any excitement. We have enjoyed our healthy, natural, gradual growth; nothing has been forced. As the way has opened, we have striven to walk in it. We wish that all the kind friends whom God has raised up to us, at one stage and another of our progress, were here to-night, that we might receive their congratulations, and that they might behold our gratitude. To those who are here, we say to each and every one:--"God bless you!" for enabling us to minister to our deaf-mute brethren. [8/9] But some have passed on before us to the mysterious scenes of the future life. Their serene joy is not lessened by the remembrance of the time when, upon earth, they showed kindness to those whom God had made to be indeed a peculiar people. Five years ago this spring, at the first public meeting which we called, fifteen of our prominent citizens, both clerical and lay, consented to co-operate with Bishop Wainwright, as an Executive Committee, to commence our Building Fund. Three of the number have been gathered to their fathers. It is fitting that, to-night, we show grateful honor to the memory of the good bishop, who so heartily and zealously threw his whole influence into the work, and to our good friends William A. Spencer, Robert D. Weeks and Augustin Averill, who did all in their power towards our success. My Christian brethren, our simple story has been told. I trust that it has inspired your confidence in our undertaking, as one of genuine Christian benevolence; as one in harmony with the key-note of love which the angelic host sounded when their jubilant song broke upon the midnight stillness of Bethlehem's hills--"Glory be to God on high, and on earth peace, good-will towards men." I trust that you can see in us humble followers of Jesus of Nazareth, uttering the living word "Ephphatha" to the spiritual ears of these children of silence, that they may at length enter upon eternal life, and listen to the music of harpers harping on their harps in the city of God. Shall our work be pushed on to completion? Shall we be permitted to worship the Almighty midst consecrated courts--our own spiritual home? Do you all say, Yes. If so, the time has come for me to make a personal request. I desire to be placed in a position in which I can labor with more effect for our cause. If my salary at the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb can be made up, I shall deem it my duty to resign my connection with it, in order to take vigorously hold of the important work of completing our Building Fund, and to give increased attention to parochial work. My income at the Institution is $1,400 a year. To make this up, I have a simple plan to propose:--One of our prominent citizens has a deaf-mute son about seventeen years of age. He desires me to begin, on the first of next October, the instruction of this son for two hours a day. For this I should receive $400 a year. I think that the remaining $1,000 might be made up by 100 persons subscribing $10 each for one year, beginning on the first of next October, with the understanding that their subscriptions should [9/10] continue another year if necessary. So soon as we can be placed in our church edifice, free from debt, I firmly believe that all appeals for aid from us to the Church at large will cease. My brethren, will you enable me to go to work next fall in earnest? I need not say to my esteemed friend--my father's friend--the venerable President of our noble Institution, that in case my proposal meets with favor, I shall resign with heart-felt regret the pleasant duties which, under his guidance, I have for nearly fifteen years endeavored faithfully to discharge. I need not say to all my other dear friends there, my co-laborers in an arduous profession, that it will for a time seem very strange not to look daily upon their familiar faces and to hear cheerful greetings, as we have labored for the children whom God has placed in our charge. I need not say to the gentlemen who constitute our Board of Directors, that my satisfaction at entering more fully upon ecclesiastical work will be tinged with sadness at the thought that I must cease to enjoy their uniform courtesy and kindness. For one and all know that our Institution, and the persons connected with it, have ever been objects of deep and abiding interest to me. Yes, it will, in many respects, be a trial for me to leave the Institution, now entering upon a new career of prosperity and usefulness. But, my brethren, does not the path of duty now seem to lie in the direction which I have indicated? I think it does; and therefore I ask you to enable me to walk in this path, that much more than has yet been accomplished to promote the temporal and spiritual welfare of adult deaf-mutes, may be the result. After the reading of the foregoing statement, Dr. Peet, the President of the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb in this city, rose and said:-- MR. CHAIRMAN:--I hold in my hand, some resolutions which I desire to submit to the consideration of this meeting; which, with your permission, I will read in my place, and then send them to the chair. Resolved, That the enterprise of providing the means of religious instruction and public worship for the deaf and dumb in this city, as set forth in the statement just made by the Rector of St. Ann's Church for Deaf-Mutes, commends itself to the judgment of this meeting, and we cordially recommend to Christian philanthropists to encourage and sustain it, by individual subscription or otherwise, until its [10/11] completion, and the parish shall become a self-sustaining church. Resolved, That in order to place the Rector of St. Ann's Church in a position in which he can labor more effectually to accomplish the objects he has in view, this meeting regards with favor the plan to raise $1,000 towards his support in 100 annual subscriptions of ten dollars each, and continuing, if necessary, till the proposed church edifice is consecrated. These resolutions having been seconded by J. O. Bronson, M. D., Dr. Peet spoke as follows:-- In support of these resolutions, I desire to say a few words. Our divine Redeemer said to his disciples, "The poor you have with you always." The great majority of the deaf and dumb may be said to be embraced in this category, not that the number of this class is disproportionate, but because the number of those who are required to labor for their support is much greater in every community, than that of those who are free from this necessity. Compared with the whole population, the wealthy are few. The causes of deaf-dumbness exist among all classes, and the families of the rich are subject to the visitations of this fearful calamity as well as others. As nearly as it can be ascertained, about three-fifths of those who are thus afflicted, are congenital cases, and two-fifths are produced by disease or accident. In the latter class, the diseases denominated by physicians exanthemata, as scarlet fever and measles, are a fruitful source of deafness, and these are not limited by climate, or rank, or modes of living; and hence deaf-mutes are found in every condition of life. When educated, they can minister to their own wants, and contribute as well to the productive industry of the country as others in the corresponding walks of life; but being few in number, and dependent upon the labor of their hands for support, and scattered over a wide extent of territory, they cannot build institutions of learning, nor houses of worship. It is only in large cities that a sufficient number are collected together to justify attempting such an enterprise as the one which we have met to promote this evening. The statistics with regard to the deaf and dumb, in this city, contained in the statement which has just been submitted, show the importance of securing a permanent provision for their religious instruction, by the erection of a church edifice and the settlement of a Christian pastor, who [11/12] shall feed them with the bread of knowledge, in a mode adapted to their peculiar condition. But it is not my purpose to speak of the value of religious institutions as connected with their salvation, by leading them to the knowledge of Christ, which, indeed, cannot be over-estimated; there are things which affect their physical and social well-being which must not be overlooked. I have already said they can support themselves; but they need the aid of a judicious adviser to obtain suitable situations, to secure an adequate compensation for their labor, and to invest safely their moderate earnings. As a class, they are more credulous than others, believe without examination, what is told them, and hence are liable to be imposed upon. Without regular employment, they are in danger of lapsing into habits of vagrancy which lead to ruin; and without proper care in investing the proceeds of their labor, they may lose the earnings of years. As an illustration of this last remark, I will cite a case of recent occurrence. One of our former pupils settled in this city as a journeyman mechanic, and by industry and economy, he had, in the course of several years, in addition to supporting himself; accumulated about eight hundred dollars, which he left in the hands of his employer. In the revulsion of business through which this community has recently passed, his employer failed, and he lost all that he saved of his hard earnings. The shock was too great for him to bear; his mind became unsettled; he returned to the place of his former residence, and there committed suicide by drowning. Now if the pastor of this church had been in a condition to look after the affairs of this unfortunate man, and had induced him, as he might easily have done, to put his money into a Savings Bank, or otherwise to invest it in good securities, this sad catastrophe might have been arrested. The importance of pastoral visitation and kind supervision and advice, with regard to their temporal affairs, derives additional illustration by reference to the condition of the deaf and dumb in the city of London. In that metropolis, there are two thousand deaf-mutes--a number equal to the whole population of this class of persons in this State. In the British schools, with few exceptions, no trades are taught, and it is a feature of their system to apprentice their pupils, on leaving school, to some handicraft, by paying a fee to the master. After entering upon his new employment, the deaf-mute finds the restraint, exaction, and unremitted toil of the shop, contrast unfavorably with the study [12/13] and recreation of the school, and without having the reasonableness of this change in his condition fully explained to him, he becomes impatient; shows his impatience, it may be, in acts of insubordination--a misunderstanding ensues, his indentures are broken, and he leaves his place. It may be that the fault is not wholly to be attributed to him--the master may sometimes be to blame. Destitution, vagrancy and crime not unfrequently follow. So great, indeed, were the evils of such a state of things, that an association of gentlemen was formed, some years ago, for the benefit of the adult deaf and dumb, to prevent, or remedy those evils. This society did not contemplate a church organization, though it did provide, to some extent, for their religious instruction on the Sabbath; but by the appointment of an agent, to obtain for them situations, to protect them in their rights, to shield them from temptation, and to encourage and aid them to become good citizens. These objects cannot fail to commend themselves to the good sense of every one; for it must be obvious, that under such a state of things as that to which I have referred, without some such provision, no inconsiderable portion of the benefit of instruction must otherwise be lost. In respect to openings for employment, the deaf and dumb in this country are more favorably situated than in Great Britain, or on the continent. Here they are not required to go through with a regular apprenticeship, as the condition of entering a shop with journeymen mechanics. In the hours of recreation and labor, during the progress of their education, they acquire a knowledge of the rudiments of a trade; and although they cannot, in the outset, compete with the skill of experience, they are not, as a consequence, debarred the opportunity of doing what they can, and of receiving an adequate compensation for their labor. Time and some additional instruction will render them good workmen, and place them on an equality with their more favored brethren. Though these considerations are in their favor, the instances of failure are too many to justify our neglect to afford them sympathy, and kind cooperation in their efforts to help themselves. Some of those who have fallen might have been saved, had timely aid been rendered. For the reasons thus briefly stated, in support of the resolutions, I trust the propriety of adopting them must be obvious to this meeting; for if the Rector of St. Ann's Church can be placed in a position to give his whole time and attention to the duties of the parish, in addition to [13/14] the regular ministrations of the Sabbath, he can perform such specific pastoral labors as will bring to his notice the condition, circumstances, and wants of every member of his flock; and this knowledge, derived from personal observation, will point out an intelligent and safe course of action adapted to each individual case. Should he be sustained in this enterprise which he has undertaken, it will, as he has already stated, involve the necessity of his relinquishing the post now occupied by him in the department of instruction at the Institution. In looking back upon its history, it seems to me that the providence of God has opened the way, and that he has only been following its leadings. He has alluded to the feelings which must be awakened by the contemplated change. Whatever regrets he may feel in relinquishing labors rendered easy by long experience--in severing ties strengthened by daily intercourse, and in giving up pleasant scenes and familiar faces and associations--their poignancy will be assuaged by the belief that he is pursuing the pathway of duty, in accordance with the indications of Providence. Mr. Gallaudet has made an allusion to myself and the Institution with which we are connected. I cordially reciprocate the kind feelings of personal regard and attachment which he has expressed, and shall regret, not less than himself, his retirement from his present field of labor. At the same time, should his appeal to this meeting and the Christian public be responded to, he will have my best wishes and prayers for his success. His father was my friend, and we labored together for several years in the same benevolent work. I rejoice that the mantle of the father has fallen upon the son; and as the former introduced the art of deaf-mute instruction into the country, so the latter is about to carry out, not indeed what was once contemplated--the establishment of a community of deaf-mutes--but a scheme for their higher civilization and spiritual good. In the hope, sir, that these resolutions will be adopted by this meeting, I conclude these brief remarks as I began, by quoting from the words of our Saviour:-- "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these, my brethren, ye have done it unto me." Dr. Peet having finished his remarks, Mr. Josiah Jones, a deaf-mute vestryman of the parish, made a short address in the sign-language, which was translated orally by the Rector. He alluded to the great advantages which his brethren and himself had in the services of this church, and [14/15] expressed his gratitude to all who had thus far aided in fostering and sustaining it. He spoke of the earnest desire which deaf-mutes felt that the proposed edifice should be built as speedily as possible. He contrasted the condition of a deaf-mute person, enfeebled by disease, enjoying the visits of a pastor who could converse freely with him in the sign language, with one who was deprived of this privilege. Deaf-mutes in health and strength could converse with clergymen by writing; but when upon beds of severe sickness, their fingers could not guide a pencil. He thought that the deaf-mutes of this city were happy in having a pastor who could visit them in their troubles, baptize their children, perform their marriage ceremonies, and attend to their funerals. In his whole manner, Mr. Jones showed the deep interest which he took in the prosperity of this church. Dr. Eigenbrodt followed in a few words expressive of his cordial good-will towards the undertaking to which his brother in the ministry had devoted himself. After a graceful allusion to language as God's gift to man, he dwelt for a moment upon this new language of signs, through which the blessed truths of the Gospel could be made known to those who had been deprived of their hearing. He heartily approved the resolutions which had been introduced by the President of the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, and thought that if Mr. Gallaudet had faith enough in the cause which he had espoused, to induce him to give up a salary which was pledged by the State of New-York, and throw himself for temporary support upon the subscriptions of individuals, surely one hundred persons could readily be found who would be willing to make up the sum for which he asked. Mr. G. C. W. Gamage, a deaf-mute instructor in the Institution, in an address by signs which was translated orally, called attention to the fact that the Institution was now so distant from the populous portions of the city that deaf-mutes residing here were cut off from the privileges of the chapel and therefore absolutely needed this church. He said that his deaf-mute brethren here in the city had been in the habit of assembling for worship and instruction for upwards of five years in hired rooms, and thought that the time had come to hasten forward the erection of the church on the site which was now owned free from debt. He hoped that his friend Mr. Gallaudet, would be sustained in all his efforts to promote the temporal and spiritual welfare of adult deaf-mutes. Dr. R. Ogden Doremus, Professor of Chemistry, in the [15/16] Thirteenth-street Medical College, expressed his great gratification at what he had seen and heard, and gave it as his decided opinion that the Rector of St. Ann's would without any doubt be sustained in devoting himself more fully to the interests of his parish. He knew that the public desired this undertaking to succeed. Although he was attached to the Dutch Reformed Church, he heartily sympathized with this whole movement, and pledged himself for ten subscriptions towards the Rector's salary. George F. Nesbitt, Esq., pledged himself for five. Mr. James Beatty, a deaf-mute communicant of the parish, came forward and said by signs that his feelings would not allow him to remain silent. He graphically contrasted his condition in Ireland with his present privileges in a church where he could understand the services and the sermon. He expressed his deep gratitude to the Rector for all his kindness, and to the Bishop for confirming his two oldest daughters. Bishop Potter then briefly summed up the prominent points which had been made in the different addresses of the evening, and said it was evident that the proposed church should be built as soon as practicable, and that the Rector should be enabled to devote himself more thoroughly to the interests of the parish. He dwelt particularly upon the deep feeling which the deaf-mutes themselves had manifested in this undertaking for their benefit and closed with an earnest exhortation to Christian people to help it forward with their sympathy, their money and their prayers. The resolutions offered by Dr. Peet were then unanimously adopted. On motion of Robert Gracie, Esq., it was resolved that a collection be made to defray the expenses of the meeting, appropriating any balance that might remain to the Parish Fund. On motion of B. L. Budd, M. D., it was resolved, that a committee be chosen to give publicity to the proceedings of this meeting. Under the resolution the following gentlemen were appointed:--The Rt. Rev. H. Potter, D. D., Harvey P. Peet, LL. D., R. Ogden Doremus, M. D., Bern L. Budd, M. D., Mr. Josiah Jones, and the Rev. Thomas Gallaudet. The meeting then adjourned. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource PROCEEDINGS OF A MEETING IN RELATION TO ST. ANN'S CHURCH FOR DEAF-MUTES. WEDNESDAY, MAY 19, 1858, Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived via <a href="http://anglicanhistory.org/usa/gallaudet/proceedings1858.html">Project Canterbury</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available George F. Nesbitt & Co, Printers and Stationers, Corner Pearl and Pine Streets Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1858 Type The nature or genre of the resource Book Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource Documents hosted on Project Canterbury are believed to be in the public domain unless otherwise indicated; for-profit use of any material on this site is explicitly forbidden. Reproduction for study or religious purposes is permitted under the terms of the <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.5/">Creative Commons Deed.</a>