Michaels, John Walter

Born at Petersburg, VA; deaf from illness at age 7; entered the Virginia School for the deaf at age 15, graduated in 1873, then to Gallaudet College for 3 years before leaving in 1876. Entered the saddle, harness and horse-collar business in Knoxville, TN. Established his own business at Goshen, VA in 1880-1882, then sold the business and moved into teaching at the Virginia School for the Deaf. After 2 years, called to work at the Arkansas School for the Deaf as head teacher and chaplain until 1890, when he resigned to pursue real estate back in Goshen. Collapse of a real estate boom pushed him back into the livery stable business. Elected town councilman in Goshen for 4 years, 1891-1895. Organized the Virginia Association of the Deaf in 1891 and served as its president for two terms. Recruited back to the Arkansas School in 1892, rising to principal of the Literary Department by 1902. Honorary Bachelor of Pedagogy degree conferred by Gallaudet College. Instrumental in organizing the Arkansas Association of the Deaf. Learned the art of legerdemain for the amusement of his pupils and others. As the first Southern Baptist Convention missionary to deaf persons, he was instrumental in starting many churches and religious classes. Honorary Doctorate of Pedagogy (1902) and honorary Doctorate of Divinity (1939) from Gallaudet College.