Beale, Henry Blenkarne

Born in London and deafened at 7 by scarlet fever. Home-tutored by his older sister until age 12, then self-taught himself afterwards through reading. At age 13, apprenticed as a wood engraver. Went to Canada in 1866 and set up an engraving business in Toronto. In his free time, was a lay missionary to the deaf of Toronto. Married Susan Martin, also deaf. Retired from his engraving business and returned to England in 1886. Active in the British Deaf and Dumb Association and a strong foe of oralism. Died at Minchinampton, Gloucestershire.