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The Robert L. Bates Papers

 Collection — Multiple Containers
Identifier: MSS019

Scope and Contents

The Robert L. Bates Papers consists of 3 boxes of manuscripts acquired during his work with the Council of Organizations Serving the Deaf (COSD).

The bulk of this collection consists of general correspondences and memorandums from within the organization as well as with its affiliates.

Also included in the collection are COSD tax statements, minutes from meetings, reports from key chairs, and some COSD newsletters.

Dates

  • Creation: 1966 - 1979

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to the public with no restrictions. Photocopies may be made for scholarly research.

Biographical / Historical

Robert L. Bates was born on July 29, 1930 and became deaf at age seven stricken with scarlet fever. He enrolled at Indiana State School for the Deaf and graduated with academic honors. In 1955, he graduated from Gallaudet College with a B.A. degree in mathematics. Bates also did graduate work at American University and Evansville College.

He began his career in March 1955 as a mathematician with the Department of Navy in the Bureau of Aeronautics. Eventually, Bates became Chief of Scientific Programming. He was recognized as the project leader for several ADP systems.

Bates was active in several organizations such as the Lions’ Club, Council of Organizations Serving the Deaf, National Association for the Deaf, Virginia Association for the Deaf, and the American Institute of Parliamentarians. He was one of the recipients of the Outstanding Handicapped Federal Employees of the Year Award given by the U.S. Civil Service Commission in 1973.

He married Joan Macaluso and they had four sons together. He passed away on March 4, 1996 at 65 in Rixeyville, Virginia.

Extent

1.5 Linear Feet (3 document cases)

Language of Materials

English

Abstract

This collection consists of documents in Robert L. Bates’ possession during his tenure with the Council of Organizations Serving the Deaf.

Immediate Source of Acquisition

The Papers of Robert L. Bates was donated to the Gallaudet University Archives on April 2nd, 1986.

Related Materials

Photographs Robert L. Bates [picture]. Gallaudet University Archives, Call Number: Portraits

Vertical Files Robert L. Bates. Gallaudet University Archives, Call Number: Deaf Biographical

Manuscripts Papers of Robert L. Bates, 1943-1996. Gallaudet University Archives, Call Number: MSS 126

Title
The Robert Bates Papers
Status
Completed
Author
Peterson, Jeffrey
Date
Original finding aid created March 25th, 2008, ArchivesSpace version created January 12th, 2023.
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the Gallaudet University Archives Repository

Contact:
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