Born in Warren county, Indiana, October 1, 1829. He received but a limited education, his father being one of the earliest settlers of Iowa; he was a diligent student at home, and when he went to a select school at Dubuque he excelled in algebra and geometry. When twenty-one years old he taught school in Jackson County, Iowa, at which profession he was quite successful; but at the end of nine months he embarked in the lumber business, in which he continued eleven years. In 1863 he was elected member of the Legislature of Iowa, from Delaware County, representing his constituents with entire satisfaction. In 1852 Mr. Simpson was united in marriage to Artemesia Sutherland, a daughter of Martin and Mary (White) Sutherland. During the war Mr. Simpson was a strong Union man and devoted his time to the cause in various ways. In 1866 he went to Clarence, Cedar County, Iowa, and engaged in the lumber and mercantile trade. In 1874 he came to Page County and settled on his farm. He and his wife are both consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and he has acted as steward and trustee. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party. He is a radical temperance man, and has always led a correct, upright life.