Year of Stories
Preserving & celebrating Edinburgh’s deaf heritage
As the oldest deaf centre in the world, we have a story or two to tell. Created in partnership with Scotland’s Year of Stories, this collection aims to celebrate our building’s history, preserve our community’s heritage, and shine a light on your memories.
Each person shares their unique experiences with our historic building here at 49 Albany Street, the home of Deaf Action. Thank you to everyone for sharing your story with us.
John
John reminisces about Sunday school, Remembrance Sunday, trips to North Berwick and Christmas parties in the Deaf Action building.
Brenda
Brenda talks about getting married, and having her daughter Christened at 49 Albany Street.
Eleanor
Eleanor tells us about her employment, and her involvement with the Deaf Church in our Albany Street building.
Jennifer
Jennifer recalls how she first came to the Deaf Club, and then became involved with drama and acting.
Rhona
Rhona recalls her children being baptised at the Deaf Church here in Albany Street.
Carole
Carole talks about being a bridesmaid at her father’s wedding, and life at the Deaf Club in her younger days.
Billy Jack
Billy Jack explains how friendships and memories have been made at the Youth Club.
Shirley
Shirley looks back at her time with the signing choir, and the formation of the Youth Club.
Danielle
Danielle talks about her university placement at Deaf Action, and the “ghosts” in the basement.
Gordon
Gordon looks back on his favourite memory of the Deaf Action building – his wedding day.
Tommy
Tommy talks about his family, school life, wrestling in the Olympics, and working on bringing the Deaf Action garden back to life.
Irene
Irene looks back on her time with the signing choir, her education and how she got into teaching BSL.
This event has been supported by the Year of Stories 2022 Community Stories Fund. This fund is being delivered in partnership between VisitScotland and Museums Galleries Scotland with support from National Lottery Heritage Fund thanks to National Lottery players.