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.

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.

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.

Perkins History Stories

Edith Thomas (standing) and Elizabeth Robin (seated) in front of ivy covered wall communicating via the manual alphabet. Speaking with 'Flying Fingers'

When Elizbeth Robin arrived at the Perkins Kindergarten she quickly befriended fellow student Edith Thomas. Thus began a lifelong friendship.

Seated portrait of Cornelia C. Roeske (1864-1895) outside reading an embossed book. She is wearing a dark dress with light trim. Cornelia C. Roeske accomplished musician, teacher, and composer

A guest post about Cornelia C. Roeske, a graduate of Perkins who became an accomplished musician, teacher, and composer.

Studio portrait of Michael Anagnos seated with Helen Keller. Keller stands at his left with her arm around his shoulder. The Frost King Incident

The story of accusations of plagiarism and fraud surrounding a short story written by Helen Keller.