Old Kentish Sign Language

Old Kentish Sign Language (OKSL), also known as Kentish, is an extinct sign language that was once used by the Deaf community in the county of Kent, located in southeastern England. It is one of the earliest sign languages to have been documented, with records dating back to the 17th century. OKSL played a significant role in the development of British Sign Language (BSL), contributing to its lexicon and structure.

History[edit | edit source]

The origins of Old Kentish Sign Language are not well-documented, but it is believed to have evolved naturally within the Deaf communities in Kent. The earliest records of OKSL date back to the 1620s, making it one of the oldest recorded sign languages in the world. During this period, the use of sign language among Deaf individuals was often the only means of communication, as formal education for the Deaf was not yet established.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, OKSL was observed and noted by several scholars and educators, including Thomas Braidwood, who founded Braidwood's Academy for the Deaf and Dumb in Edinburgh, the first school for the Deaf in Britain. Braidwood's work with Deaf students, including those from Kent, contributed to the spread of sign language and influenced the development of British Sign Language.

Characteristics[edit | edit source]

Old Kentish Sign Language was characterized by its unique signs and syntax, which differed from other regional sign languages in Britain. While comprehensive documentation of OKSL is limited, historical accounts suggest that it had its own grammar and vocabulary, distinct from that of modern British Sign Language.

Influence on British Sign Language[edit | edit source]

The influence of OKSL on British Sign Language is significant. As Deaf individuals from Kent and other regions of Britain came into contact, their sign languages merged and evolved. The interaction between OKSL and other regional sign languages contributed to the formation of a more standardized British Sign Language, particularly in terms of vocabulary and signs related to everyday life and community practices.

Decline and Extinction[edit | edit source]

The decline of Old Kentish Sign Language began in the 19th century, as more formalized education for the Deaf, such as the Braidwood schools, promoted the use of standardized sign languages. Additionally, the rise of oralism, a movement that advocated for the teaching of speech reading and speaking over sign language, further contributed to the decline of regional sign languages, including OKSL.

By the early 20th century, OKSL was no longer in widespread use, and it eventually became extinct as a living language. However, its legacy lives on through its contributions to British Sign Language and the Deaf community's history.

References[edit | edit source]

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External Links[edit | edit source]

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