DR. FERDINAND H. SIMPSON A brief look into the surgeon’s life

Dr. Simpson, born in 1874 in Akron, was a surgeon who also tried to ensure that the local black community could stay informed about area church, civic and community events, as well as what transpired nationally. Some of his achievements:

Entered an 18-month apprenticeship to become a plumber after graduating from high school in 1892 in Akron, though it’s unknown from which school he graduated.

Was hired by the B.F. Goodrich Rubber Works in Akron, where he worked in the wood-turning department.

Beginning in 1896, attended medical school at Western Reserve University in Cleveland, where he was in the first four-year class to graduate from that school.

Was the first black physician to be admitted to the Summit County Medical Society in Akron.

Came to Youngstown after having been appointed in 1905 to serve on the local chapter of the Loyal Legion of Labor by Z.W. Mitchell, an educator and principal from Chillicothe, Ohio.

Before his arrival in the Valley, Simpson had been chosen as the first district superintendent of the LLL’s Summit County branch.

Sources: Steffon W. Jones, Youngstown Telegram