Supt. James D. McLauglin (far right) pictured with SDSD pupils, near the campus ice house. circa 1909.
Click image to enlarge.
James McLaughlin Era
(1908-1910)
Maintaining the Campus Through a Time of Uncertainty
The McLaughlin Era was a short but eventful period in South Dakota School for the Deaf history. While campus improvements during his administration focused mainly on maintenance and daily operations, his tenure later became the subject of public controversy and investigation, making it one of the more discussed periods of SDSD's early years.
Campus Operations and Improvements
Background
James D. McLaughlin came to South Dakota from Wisconsin and first settled in Codington County, where he served as county auditor. He later moved to Watertown and, in 1908, was appointed the fifth superintendent of the South Dakota School for the Deaf by the State Board of Charities and Corrections.
Unlike earlier administrations that saw significant campus growth and construction, McLaughlin's administration focused largely on maintaining existing facilities and keeping the school operating smoothly. Documented improvements during his tenure included:
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Repairing and re-shingling the barn roof.
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Installing a concrete floor in the barn's basement.
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Main Building porch repaired and restored.
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Construction of a coalhouse on campus.
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Trunk room and benches added to the Boys Dormitory.
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General campus repairs and maintenance as needed.
School Name Change (1909)
In 1909, legislation was passed replacing the term "Deaf Mute School" with "South Dakota School for the Deaf," reflecting changing language and terminology of the period.
No major new building projects were documented during this period.
Student Life and Athletics
Superintendent James D. McLaughlin (middle row, fourth from left) seated beside SDAD President Charles Loucks during the South Dakota Association of the Deaf convention at SDSD circa 1909.
Click image to enlarge.
Student life during McLaughlin's administration included growing participation in athletics and school activities, while the school also strengthened its connection with the broader Deaf community.
In 1909, the SDSD hosted the South Dakota Association of the Deaf (SDAD) convention, bringing the Deaf leaders and visitors from
James McLaughlin
Click image to read his profile
Born: June 10 1859 - Lochaber,
Died: December 1, 1925,
Position: 5th Superintendent,
S.D. School for the Deaf
Years Active: 1908 – 1910
Background: County Auditor,
Known For:
• Leading SDSD during a period of
maintenance and transition.
• Focused on campus operations and
upkeep.
• Oversaw the school during the 1909
public investigation.
Notable Achievements:
• Renovated and maintained campus
facilities.
• Hosted the 1909 SDAD Convention
at SDSD.
• Supported student activities and
athletics.
• Oversaw the 1909 school name
transition to South Dakota School
for the Deaf.
Family: Wife: Lida Marie Kent.
Children: Robert, Newton,
Ralph and James Stewart
McLaughlin.
the state together on campus. Superintendent McLaughlin worked closely with the organization in welcoming delegates and supporting conference activities held at school. Convention members later expressed appreciation for the hospitality provided by McLaughlin, school staff, and the institution. The event reflected SDSD's growing role as both an educational center and gathering place for South Dakota Deaf community.
The 1909 football team pictured on campus with Olde School visible in the background, circa 1909.
Click image for more information.
Athletics also played an important role in student life during this period. In 1909, SDSD fielded a football team that competed against local schools and organizations, reflecting the school's expanding interest in recreation and teamwork.
According to newspaper reports, the team played an exhibition game against Sioux Falls High School. Although originally reported as a 28–0 loss, Superintendent McLaughlin later clarified that the actual score was 14–6. The team continued to improve throughout the season and later earned a 6–6 tie against Sioux Falls College. Coach Howard Wood of Sioux Falls Washington High School reportedly praised the Deaf athletes, describing them as among the strongest teams in the city. The season also included competitive matchups against Garretson.
Investigation and Controversy
In 1909, McLaughlin became the subject of public controversy after local newspaper reports raised concerns regarding his conduct and management of the school. Public discussions and accusations eventually led to calls for state action and a formal investigation.
McLaughlin requested an investigation through the State Board of Charities and Corrections so that the accusations and concerns could be formally reviewed. The investigation was held at the school in October 1909.
Contemporary newspaper reports suggested that evidence supporting his removal had not been established, and there was a general expectation that McLaughlin would be cleared of wrongdoing.
End of Tenure
Despite the earlier reports, McLaughlin received official notice in July 1910 that he would be replaced as superintendent effective August 1, 1910. Newspaper reports stated that his services had been terminated by the Board of Charities and Corrections, although surviving records do not clearly identify a specific reason for the decision. Howard Simpson was later selected as the next superintendent of SDSD.
Legacy
James D. McLaughlin served during a brief transitional period in SDSD history. Although his administration did not include major campus expansion projects, his tenure reflected the challenges of managing a growing state institution during the early twentieth century. His era remains notable for maintaining campus operations, strengthening connections with South Dakota’s Deaf community, and guiding the school through a period of transition.
References:
The Transcendent Territory, page 15 - View
Debra Bilbrey's research files.
Scott Miller's research files.
Argus Leaders
Multiply newspapers
Wikipedia.
Find A Grave.
More sources to be added soon