John Simpson

Capt. John Simpson, after whom Simpson County was named, migrated with his father from Virginia to Lincoln County, Kentucky, at an early day. His first experience in war on a large scale against the Indians, was under Gen. Wayne, at the battle of the Fallen Timbers in 1794. At the instance of the lamented Col. John Allen, he afterwards removed to Shelbyville, studied law and entered upon the practice there, rapidly attaining success and distinction. He represented Shelby County in the legislature, in 1806, '09, '10, and '11, and at the last session was chosen speaker. In August, 1812, he was elected to congress.

When the aggressions of Great Britain upon the rights and interests of the United States led to a declaration of war, Kentucky was called upon to furnish 5,500 men, as her quota of the 100,000 authorized by congress to be received into the service. Mr. Simpson raised a company of riflemen, as part of the regiment of his old friend. Col. John Allen, which became part of Gen. John Payne's brigade, and marched with the first troops from Kentucky to reinforce Gen. Hull at Detroit. Capt. Simpson's company participated in the gallant but disastrous event at the River Raisin, where Allen and Simpson both sealed their devotion to their country by their blood.



Source: History of Kentucky, Volume II, by Lewis Collins, Published by Collins & Company,
Covington, Kentucky, 1874