Dumbiedykes

Have you ever wondered about the origins of a place name? Dumbiedykes, right here in Edinburgh, has an unusual story to tell, one that speaks volumes about the history of deaf education. Dumbiedykes is a residential area in the heart of Edinburgh. It’s known for its unique history and its connection to the very first school for the deaf in the world! This wasn’t just any school, it was Braidwood’s Academy for the Deaf and Dumb, founded in 1760 by Thomas Braidwood. Braidwood was a pioneer in his field, developing innovative teaching methods for deaf children, and his academy attracted students from all over the world. The area was named after the students, often referred to affectionately as “dumbies”, as they learned and grew in those historic walls. The academy was extremely successful, but sadly, it was demolished in the 1940s. Although the school is long gone, Dumbiedykes continues to hold a special place in the history of deaf education, and its story is a reminder of how far we have come in our understanding and support of deaf people. So, the next time you walk through Dumbiedykes, take a moment to think about the legacy of Thomas Braidwood and his students. They helped to pave the way for a more inclusive world, where everyone can learn and thrive, regardless of their hearing ability.