Hidden Voices: Untold Stories in Our Community series:

Hiram Simmons (1874-1938)

Hiram emerged as an early African American composer hailing from Lincolnsville (he was born in Prince Anne County in Maryland) and was renowned for his compositions spanning piano, voice, chorus, and contributions to gospel music. A revered teacher and musician, Hiram Simmons dedicated his life to crafting and performing gospel and spiritual music. His legacy endures through the Church Music Publishing House, initially established in Berkley and later relocated to Portsmouth, which disseminated not only his own compositions but also those of numerous others in the region. The collection curated by Portsmouth librarian Bertha W. Edwards offers insights into Simmons' life and work, comprising published music, a photograph, and a biographical sketch. This collection stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Simmons’ work within the Portsmouth community and beyond. (source: Library of Congress)

Attached is a photograph capturing Mr. Simmons' residence at 113 Green Street, where he composed his music. The house once occupied the current location of Wawa. Another photograph features sheet music titled "The Song that Leads to Heaven," composed by Mr. Simmons. This particular copy is housed within the Lincolnsville Collection at the Hill House Museum.