Finally, in respect to the work for the deaf in America as a whole, it may be said that the state makes but one form of provision in their behalf. This is in allowing to all its deaf children a means of education. Even this is hardly to be called "provision for the deaf." It is rather the attention that is paid to a certain portion of the population for its education. It is to be distinguished from the provision for general education only in that special means and methods are necessary for its accomplishment.
This being done, the state may practically let the deaf alone. No distinctive form of public treatment is usually to be called for in respect to them as a class. They demand little in the way of special care or oversight, they are able as a rule to look after themselves, asking few odds not asked by other men, they have become citizens without reservation or qualification, and economically they form no distinct class, but are absorbed into the industrial life of the state. They have assumed the responsibilities of life in a highly organized community, and in turn reap the benefits that belong to all men in such an order. But though this is true, their affliction bestowed upon them by the partial hand of nature, is not to be minimized, nor its effects lightened by any human words. Their deafness rests indeed upon them as a very material, tangible burden, so sharp and pointed in its operations that they are in great measure cut off socially from the rest of their kind. Because of this their concern becomes great in respect to the form of consideration from the community about them, and their need turns to one not so much of material character as of the attention of the good neighbor. From their condition all the more does it avail that no further load should be placed upon them, and that their prayer should be heard that they be treated fully as men. For even with their ever missing sense, the power of the deaf is only retarded, and not seriously diminished, to derive from life much of its richness and color and well-being.
APPENDIX A
HOMES FOR THE DEAF IN AMERICA
| Name | State | Location | Year Founded | Number of Inmates | Annual Cost of Support | |
| 1 | Gallaudet Home | New York | Wappinger's Falls | 1885 | 24 | $7,311 |
| 2 | Ohio Home for Aged and Infirm Deaf | Ohio | Westerville | 1896 | 30 | 6,710 |
| 3 | St. Elizabeth's Industrial School | New York | New York City | 1897 | 20 | 8,435 |
| 4 | New England Home for Deaf-Mutes | Massachusetts | Everett | 1901 | 13 | 3,198 |
| 5 | Pennsylvania Home for the Deaf | Pennsylvania | Doyleston | 1902 | 19 | 4,536 |