Sunderland Museum’s Sessions for the Blind: A Century-Old Initiative of Inclusion

In 1913, Sunderland Museum witnessed the beginning of a truly pioneering initiative that reflected not only the progressive mindset of the time but also the profound humanity of one man, John Alfred Charlton Deas. Deas, who was formerly a curator at the museum, envisioned a world where the joys of history and culture could be shared by all, regardless of physical limitations. To bring this vision to life, he launched a series of ‘touching’ sessions designed to engage and inspire the blind community.

These sessions, initially aimed at children from Sunderland Council Blind School, allowed the participants to explore selected artefacts from the museum’s extensive collection. For these children, many of whom had never had the opportunity to engage with such objects, the experience proved to be transformative. With tactile interaction, objects that could only be imagined were brought to life through touch. The children could, for the first time, physically explore items of historical, artistic, and cultural significance—an experience that had previously been out of reach.

The success of these sessions surpassed even Deas’ expectations. The children responded with enthusiasm and curiosity, prompting Deas to reflect on the importance of creating an inclusive space for those with visual impairments. Encouraged by this positive response, he expanded the scope of the programme, extending invitations to blind adults and organising regular handling sessions for the broader visually impaired community.

By opening up the museum’s collection to hands-on exploration, Deas’ sessions offered participants a unique and engaging way to connect with the museum’s treasures. The tactile experience became a means to foster a deeper understanding of the artefacts, empowering blind and partially sighted individuals to develop their appreciation of art, culture, and history through an alternative, sensory route.

This initiative was undoubtedly revolutionary for its time, at a period when accessibility and inclusivity were not the pressing issues they are today. Deas’ work at Sunderland Museum stands as a testament to the power of innovative thinking and empathy in creating more equitable cultural spaces. It is an early example of how museums can serve as beacons of inclusivity and engagement, ensuring that cultural enrichment is available to all, irrespective of ability.

Over a century later, Sunderland Museum continues to be a hub of learning and culture, and it remains dedicated to accessibility and inclusion. The legacy of John Alfred Charlton Deas lives on in the museum’s continued commitment to making its collections accessible to everyone, reflecting the importance of providing enriching experiences to those with visual impairments. The pioneering sessions that started in 1913 have served as a model for similar initiatives across the UK and beyond, influencing how museums and cultural institutions approach accessibility in the modern era.

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