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.

Watch John’s story

Brenda

Brenda talks about getting married, and having her daughter Christened at 49 Albany Street.

Watch Brenda’s story

Eleanor

Eleanor tells us about her employment, and her involvement with the Deaf Church in our Albany Street building.

Watch Eleanor’s story

Rita

Rita remembers her first visit to the Deaf Club.

Watch Rita’s story

Jennifer

Jennifer recalls how she first came to the Deaf Club, and then became involved with drama and acting.

Watch Jennifer’s story

Rhona

Rhona recalls her children being baptised at the Deaf Church here in Albany Street.

Watch Rhona’s story

Susan

Susan reminisces about deaf theatre and how the space changed into a bar.

Watch Susan’s story

Carole

Carole talks about being a bridesmaid at her father’s wedding, and life at the Deaf Club in her younger days.

Watch Carole’s story

Billy Jack

Billy Jack explains how friendships and memories have been made at the Youth Club.

Watch Billy Jack’s story

Shirley

Shirley looks back at her time with the signing choir, and the formation of the Youth Club.

Watch Shirley’s story

Danielle

Danielle talks about her university placement at Deaf Action, and the “ghosts” in the basement.

Watch Danielle’s story

Gordon

Gordon looks back on his favourite memory of the Deaf Action building – his wedding day.

Watch Gordon’s story

Tommy

Tommy talks about his family, school life, wrestling in the Olympics, and working on bringing the Deaf Action garden back to life.

Watch Tommy’s story

Irene

Irene looks back on her time with the signing choir, her education and how she got into teaching BSL. 

Watch Irene’s story

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.