History of Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 2, 2024

The Virginia School for the Deaf and the Blind (VSDB), situated in Staunton, Virginia, is a pioneering institution established in 1839 to provide education for deaf and blind children. Catering to students aged 2 to 22, VSDB offers residential facilities for those living beyond a 35-mile radius. The school's establishment reflects a significant historical step towards inclusive education for sensory-impaired children in the United States.

1939: Undefeated Football Season

The Cardinals football team remained undefeated throughout the 1939 season.

1954: Another Undefeated Football Season

The Cardinals football team repeated their perfect record in the 1954 season, finishing undefeated.

1955: Alumni Association Revitalized

The school's alumni association was revived around 1955 and remains active, with many alumni working at the school and contributing to the "Little Acorn" newsletter.

1959: Cardinals Clinch Basketball Championship

The Cardinals basketball team secured the Mason-Dixon Basketball Tournament Championship in 1959.

1964: Cardinals Triumph Again in Basketball

The Cardinals basketball team achieved victory at the Mason-Dixon Basketball Tournament Championship in 1964.

1969: Cardinals Conquer Football Field

The Cardinals football team dominated their opponents, completing an undefeated season in 1969.

1970: Cardinals' Basketball Dominance Continues

The Cardinals continued their winning streak, claiming the Mason-Dixon Basketball Tournament Championship in 1970.

1974: Hall of Fame Established

Former employee Rocco DeVito established the school's Hall of Fame in 1974, with T. Carlton Lewellyn, the first Physical Education director, as its inaugural inductee.

1974: Desegregation Plan Approved

In 1974, Virginia submitted a plan for the desegregation of VSDB, which was approved by the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare.

1975: Separate High Schools for Deaf and Blind Students

In 1975, both Staunton and Hampton had schools for deaf and blind students. However, blind high school students went to Hampton, while deaf high school students went to Staunton.

1975: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Impacts VSDB

The 1975 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act mandated that local school districts provide education for all students, leading to a decrease in enrollment at state deaf/blind schools.

1978: Capital Improvement Plan for Hampton Campus

The state revealed a $1.8 million capital improvement plan for the Hampton campus in 1978.

1982: J.C.M. Merrillat House Listed on National Register

In 1982, the J. C. M. Merrillat House, residence of a former VSDB superintendent, was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

1983: Student Enrollment Declines

By 1983, the demand for state deaf/blind schools declined due to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975, resulting in an enrollment of approximately 300 students at VSDB.

1983: School Capacity Determined

In 1983, VSDB had a capacity of 525 students based on its classrooms and dormitories.

1991: Abernathy Natatorium Opens

The Abernathy Natatorium, a new addition to the school's facilities, was completed in 1991.

2003: Campus Infrastructure and Capacity

By 2003, the 73-acre VSDB campus housed 28 buildings, including the Abernathy Natatorium (built in 1991), with most structures dating back to the 1800s. The Virginia Department of the Visually Handicapped utilized a portion of Watts Hall dormitory. The school's total capacity, including classrooms and dormitories, was 525.

June 2008: Consolidation of Deaf/Blind Schools

In June 2008, the two deaf/blind schools in Staunton and Hampton were merged into a single institution, with the Staunton campus chosen as the primary location.