Perkins History Museum
Perkins History Museum
Laura Bridgman
Perkins student Laura Bridgman was the first person with deafblindness to learn to read and write.
Anne Sullivan
Anne Sullivan and Helen Keller dramatically changed the world's perception of individuals with disabilities.
Helen Keller
Helen Keller, who attended Perkins, is considered by many to be a leading figure of the 20th century.
Books for the Blind
In 1786, Valentin Haüy, founder of the world’s first school for the blind in Paris, devised a printing system that could be read with the fingertips.
First Kindergarten for the Blind
The Perkins Kindergarten, opened in 1887, drew pupils from all over the country.
Beginnings of Deafblind Education
Deafblind education has evolved from the days of Laura Bridgman to the 21st century.
Perkins Archives Newsletter
The Perkins Archives Newsletter is an update on our activities, including the release of new collections, digital exhibits, blog posts, and other happenings in the Archives.
Visit the Museum
Schedule a free guided tour through the Perkins Museum by filling out a tour request.
Hayes Research Library
The Hayes Research Library is a resource for researchers, the Perkins community, professionals, parents and the public.
Perkins Archives
The Perkins Archives include collections related to the history of Perkins and the education of the blind and deafblind.
Building a Fallout Shelter
When Perkins built a Fallout Shelter on campus in 1961, planning involved more than just the structure itself.
"Willie" Elizabeth Robin: A Newsworthy Christmas
An 1885 newspaper article about how “Willie” Elizabeth Robin, celebrated Christmas in 1885 helped educate the public about deafblindness.
"A place of attraction to all..."
Perkins director Edward E. Allen was a firm believer in the benefits of "simple beauty" for schools for the blind and made sure that the new campus in Watertown fulfilled this belief.