Previous Reading and Writing Systems before Braille

Before Braille was developed, many other systems for the blind were introduced.  Most of these systems never were actually used, however.  As Louis found, the ones that did become popular were still generally frustrating and inefficient.  Here is a list of the more common systems:

  • Gall
  • Alston
  • Lucas
  • Moon
  • Klein
  • American
  • British
  • Hauy
  • Night writing

For detailed information about the different codes, visit http://www.nyise.org/blind/index.html.  Click on the highlighted links throughout the passage at the bottom of the page.