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.
First embossed book for the blind
Printed in 1786, Essai Sur L'Education des Aveugles, by Valentin Haüy is the first embossed book printed for use by people who are blind.
Kyriake Nicolaou and the Queens of Avalon
Kyriakie Nicolaou, a student from Greece in the 1930s, made it clear that she "was just an ordinary girl," but her story was not.
Alexander Mell and the Imperial Royal Institute for the Education of the Blind in Vienna
Alexander Mell and the Imperial Royal Institute for the Education of the Blind in Vienna's unique friendship and collaboration with Perkins.