Hiram Simmons

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.

Dr. JD Harris

Next in Hidden Voices: Untold Stories in Our Community series:

Joseph Dennis Harris (JD Harris) was born free around 1833 in Cumberland County, North Carolina. In June 1864, Harris assumed the role of acting assistant surgeon at the U.S. Army’s Balfour Hospital in Portsmouth. Initially responsible for overseeing one ward with 100 patients, his duties expanded over time to managing three wards.

During the Union occupation of Portsmouth, the Ocean House Hotel (formerly the Famous Department Store and later TCC Arts building) was converted into the Balfour General Hospital. This facility treated Union "colored soldiers" as well as free contraband people with Dr. Harris serving as the Acting Assistant Surgeon. He thus became the first African American doctor to practice in Portsmouth.

While stationed in Virginia, Harris became involved in politics. He initially engaged by adding his signature to the call for a national convention of African Americans, which was published in the Boston Liberator on September 16, 1864, although he did not physically attend the meeting. Harris likely participated in various local and state conventions organized by African American men in Virginia in the years following the Civil War. Moreover, he attended and delivered a brief speech at a conference of black and white Republicans held in Richmond in August 1867.

In 1863, during the Restored Government of Virginia, Thomas Russell Bowden nominated Harris for lieutenant governor (see attached 1863 ticket). Additionally, Lewis Lindsey, an African American delegate who had served in the Constitutional Convention of 1867–1868, endorsed Harris for this position.

Click on this links to learn more about Dr. JD Harris:

https://researchblog.duke.edu/.../medical-historian.../

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KtovTSPruSg

Hidden Voices: Untold Stories in Our Community


In collaboration with Black History Month, the Portsmouth Historical Association will be posting untold stories, during the month of February, shedding light on lesser-known aspects of prominent black citizens in Portsmouth. These narratives from the past aim to provide readers with insights into the significant impact that black citizens and buildings in Portsmouth had on the city's history. Through these hidden voices, the historical series seeks to unveil the influential contributions that may have been untold, offering a richer understanding of Portsmouth's diverse heritage.

 

The first untold story is about Dr. Eugene J. Bass.

For numerous years, Dr. Bass played a pivotal role in Portsmouth as a successful druggist and businessman. He was the proprietor of the E. J. Bass Drugstore, situated at 233 Green Street (Northeast corner of Green & London, presently the location of Children's Harbor). Established around 1896, the drugstore operated in the Lincolnsville area of Portsmouth, a significant neighborhood for the city's African American residents during that period.

Beyond its commercial functions, Dr. Bass's drugstore served as a vital information hub for the African American community in Portsmouth. It played a central role in disseminating news, acting as the primary location for submitting information intended for publication in Jeffrey Wilson's Colored Notes Section of the local newspaper.

Dr. Bass achieved a distinctive honor by becoming the second African American to pass the Virginia Pharmaceutical Board which lead to him being the 1st black pharmacist in Portsmouth. His legacy endures, as evidenced by his family home, still standing at 613 London Street today. This historical residence serves as a tangible connection to the life and contributions of Dr. Bass in the rich tapestry of Portsmouth's heritage.

Happy New Year 2024

2023 proved to be a remarkable year, largely attributed to the dedicated volunteers at the Hill House Museum. The numerous events held throughout the year provided visitors with a profound appreciation for the museum's rich offerings and its significant role in Portsmouth's history. The tireless efforts of our part-time volunteers were instrumental in the resounding success of all events. A heartfelt thank you goes out to every individual who contributed their time, ensuring the continued accessibility of the museum and fostering an environment for visitors to delve into the unique history of Portsmouth's sole historic home museum. 

Looking forward to 2024 and if you would like to volunteer please let us know.

A Holiday Visit

Discover a delightful way to spend your Saturday, December 23rd! Head over to the Hill House Museum, Portsmouth's exclusive historic home museum. From noon to 3:00, immerse yourself in a captivating tour or find the perfect, unique gift for yourself or a special someone on your Christmas list.

Indulge your senses with our incredible Five Sister’s blend aromatic tea, available for purchase. Alternatively, consider the enchanting Five Sister’s Bouquet candles, a thoughtful and aromatic gift. Don't miss out on this opportunity to blend history and holiday cheer at the Hill House Museum!

Thanks!

Yesterday's Hill House Holiday Tea was a tremendous success, and we owe it all to the generous support of our dedicated volunteers. Our sincere thanks go out to the following contributors:

The Fort Nelson chapter of the DAR for not only their delectable baked treats but also for their invaluable volunteer efforts.

The PHA board members and volunteers for their adaptability in handling the venue change and their meticulous attention to detail, ensuring the day ran seamlessly.  Also, Courtney Bullaboy, whose enchanting holiday piano music added a delightful touch to the atmosphere.

Julie Dunn, Mary Barnes, and Nettie Fisher for their exceptional decorating efforts, injecting the true spirit of the holidays into the event.

Thank you to everyone involved for your valuable contributions in making the Hill House Holiday Tea a joyous and festive occasion.

The Holiday Tea is back on...

The Hill House Holiday Tea is officially back on, thanks to the concerted efforts of several individuals. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to Keith Toler from the city of Portsmouth, Tony Goodwin, Nettie Fisher, and the generous owner of Cambridge Hall at 441 Washington Street. It is through their collaborative spirit that the Hill House Museum has been graciously provided with the venue at 441 Washington Street to host this delightful holiday tea.

This charming historic venue happens to be the historic 1891 Catholic School situated at the corner of Washington and London Streets. Rescued from the brink of demolition in 2003, this magnificent piece of history has undergone a complete restoration.

As of now, there are still a few seats available for the tea on Saturday at 3:00. If you are interested in attending this festive event, please don't hesitate to reach out at 757-714-3226.

Cancelled Tea and Tours

Due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control, we regret to inform you that Saturday's Holiday Tea (December 9th) at the Hill House Museum has been canceled. Also, tours on Wednesday and Saturday are cancelled.
Today, it was discovered that the furnace has ceased working and requires replacement, leading to the unavailability of heat and hot water at the Museum.

Please check FB and website regularly for updates of reopening.