Overview: Roscoe Conkling Simmons (born 1878 or 1881, died 1951) was an African-American orator, civic leader, journalist, and politician. He was an active member of the Republican party, a much sought-after public speaker, an advisor to three American presidents, and a journalist in Chicago during the first half of the 20th century. The Papers of Roscoe Conkling Simmons are a rich source for historical information not only on Roscoe Conkling Simmons' public role and life, but on American politics and...

Overview:

The Roscoe Conkling Simmons Collection provides a glimpse into the political activities of Roscoe Conkling Simmons, African American Republican and advisor to presidents, from 1917 to 1951. Correspondence in this collection illustrates Simmons' demand as a public speaker; photographs reveal Simmons' involvement in political campaigns; and writings and biographical materials highlight the esteem in which Simmons was held in by his contemporaries.