Home Away from Home
Thousands of young deaf people came to residential schools to live and study together. A new culture was born, enriched by each passing generation that came to include folklore, poetry, oratory, games, and jokes, as well as distinctive rules of etiquette and sign naming practices. The language that would be known as American Sign Language in the late 20th century was becoming more standardized. From this common language and common experience arose an American Deaf Community.