Background
Simpson, James Hervey was born on March 9, 1813 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States. Son of John Neely and Mary (Brunson) Simpson.
Simpson, James Hervey was born on March 9, 1813 in New Brunswick, New Jersey, United States. Son of John Neely and Mary (Brunson) Simpson.
Graduated from the United States Military Academy, 1832.
Served with Topographical Engineers, United States Army, on road construction in East and South, 1838-1860. Commissioned captain, 1853, major, 1861. Chief Topographical Engineers in Shenandoah and Ohio departments 1861-1863.
In charge fortifications and projects in Kentucky, 1863-1865. Brevetted colonel and brigadier general, 1865. Chief engineer Department of Interior, 1865-1867, in charge of direction of United Pacific Railroad and government wagonroads.
Author reports including: The Shortest Route to California, 1869. Coronado’s March in Search of the Seven Cities of Cibola, 1871.
Served with Topographical Engineers, United States Army, on road construction in East and South, 1838-1860.
Married Jane Champlin. Married second, Elizabeth (Borup) Champlin, 1871.