John Douglass Simms Sr. (1788–1843)
In 1825 Simms requested Bushrod Washington's support for appointment as U.S. Supreme Court reporter.
John Douglass Simms Sr., a son of Revolutionary War officer Charles Simms, was born in Alexandria, Virginia. A graduate from what is now Princeton University, he practiced law and co-published the Alexandria Gazette before serving as chief clerk to the secretary of the Navy from 1827 until his death. He had several brief stints as acting secretary of the Navy. Simms married twice: to Mary West (d. 1812) and Eleanor Carroll Brent (1787–1846).
Evening Post (New York), 6 March 1843, page 2, column 3 (Newspapers.com).
Alex Bulova, "War of 1812 Walking Tour," Alexandria War of 1812 Commemoration.
John Douglas Simms in Van Wie Family Tree (Ancestry.com).
John Douglas Simms at Find a Grave.
John Douglas Simms Sr at FamilySearch.