High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles! Martha`s Vineyard Sign Language (MVSL) is a sign language once widely used on the island of Martha`s Vineyard off the coast of Massachusetts, U.S., from the early 18th century to the year 1952. It was remarkable for its use by both deaf and hearing people in the community; consequently, deafness did not become a barrier to participation in public life. Martha`s Vineyard Sign Language is also notable for the role it played in the development of American Sign Language.