British Deaf History Society

Established in 1993, the British Deaf History Society (BDHS) is a volunteer-led organisation dedicated to preserving and promoting the histories, culture, and language of Deaf communities in Britain. Our mission focuses on discovery, preservation, and conservation of Deaf heritage through our Museum, Archives, and Research Library, which are housed within the Manchester Deaf Centre. We operate as a charitable company (Registration No. 05382744) and rely on donations to maintain and expand our collections. Our team includes a part-time Heritage Coordinator and dedicated volunteers who manage exhibitions, publications, and educational resources. We are the only national museum in Britain exclusively dedicated to Deaf history, featuring artefacts, artworks, and archival materials spanning centuries.

Our Research & Publications Department produces books and journals on Deaf history, accessible to scholars and the public. Despite closures during the pandemic, we reopened in 2022 with support from the DCMS Cultural Recovery Fund and continue to develop our collections, including recent acquisitions like Martin Dittons wood carving of The Last Supper. We prioritise accessibility, offering free entry to our Museum, Archives, and Library by appointment, while encouraging voluntary donations to sustain our work. Our commitment to becoming an accredited specialist museum with the Arts Council reflects our dedication to professional standards and broader engagement. Through events, exhibitions, and outreach, we aim to educate and inspire future generations about Deaf heritage.