Deaf Action is opening its doors to the public on Thursday as well as on Saturday and Sunday during Doors Open Days.
The world’s oldest deaf charity has a historic home on Albany Street and anyone visiting can meet people from Edinburgh’s deaf community as well as looking at photos objects and stories from generations past.
On Thursday there is a free coffee morning from 10am to noon to mark the International week of Deaf People and this weekend visitors will be allowed to tour the building between noon and 5pm.
Free guided tours will run on the hour in BSL and English, giving visitors a look around the Albany Street building before finishing in the Scottish Deaf Archives.
The archive, cared for by Deaf History Scotland, holds over 200 years of documents, photographs and objects recording deaf life and history in Edinburgh and Scotland.
Visitors will be able to see historic robes and hymn books from the Albany Deaf Church Choir, photographs of deaf clubs, groups and community life, and a replica of Deaf Action’s founding constitution, generously shared for this event by the National Library of Scotland, where the original document is held.
Philip Gerrard MBE, Chief Executive of Deaf Action, said: “Deaf people have been part of Edinburgh’s story for generations, and we have a wonderful collection that helps tell some of that history.
“We want people to come in, meet us and have a look around. You don’t need to know BSL or have any previous connection with Deaf Action. Everyone is welcome.”
Doors Open Days visitors will also receive 10% off at Blackwood Café & Bar during their visit.
Coffee Morning: Thursday 24 September, 10am–12pm. Free, no booking required.
Doors Open Days: Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September, 12pm–5pm. Tours at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Free, no booking required.
Location: Deaf Action, 49 Albany Street, Edinburgh, EH1 3QY.
