History

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Rancho Sordo Mudo is a Christian-based residential school for deaf children in Mexico. Ed and Margaret Everett, the founders of RSM, believe that deaf children do not have to become beggars in Mexico. They can be taught how to read and write (in Spanish), to communicate in MSL (Mexican sign language) and ASL (American Sign Language) as a second language, and to learn a trade for their future. This has been the work of the ranch for over 40 years. The ministry is now carried on and directed by their two sons Edward and Luke Everett.

Ed and Margaret Everett were introduced to the problems of the deaf when their son, Luke, lost 85% of his hearing from a series of illnesses at the age of five. As their interest grew, they learned sign language and Margaret became an interpreter and teacher. During a trip to visit missionaries in Mexico, they learned that there was nothing being done educationally or spiritually to fill the needs of the poor and orphaned deaf children in Mexico. So the Everetts sold their home and business in North Carolina and went to Mexico as Faith Missionaries.

In March of 1969, Ed and Margaret began their ministry in a small rented house in Ensenada, Mexico.  They soon saw the need for expansion when their own six children were joined by twelve deaf children. By faith they purchased a 500 acre tract of land in the beautiful Guadalupe Valley and began to pioneer a ministry to the deaf. The Lord blessed their faith and the land is now completely free of debt.  The ministry now has five classrooms, a dining hall, fellowship hall, two large dormitories, an auto shop, woodworking shop, gym, basketball court, Bunk house area for visiting church groups, an RV park, office's, and staff housing. Each year there are about 35 deaf children living at the Ranch.

Many deaf have already graduated and are working as responsible citizens to earn their own living. The Everetts believe that there is no need for deaf children to be beggars; they are very capable of learning to read, write, and master a trade. Deaf children are accepted from all over Mexico upon proof of their deafness and need. Those with families go home for summer vacation. The rest of the children stay with friends or are sent to nearby orphanages for the summer. All children are provided food, clothing, education, and medical care during their stay without any charge. They are taught the Bible and brought up to live a life of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.