Thomas J. Simmons facts for kids
Thomas Jefferson Simmons (born June 25, 1837 – died September 12, 1905) was an important judge in Georgia. He served on the Supreme Court of Georgia from 1887 to 1905. For the last 11 years, from 1894 until his death, he was the Chief Justice, meaning he was the head judge of the court.
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Early Life and Learning
Thomas J. Simmons was born in Crawford County, near Knoxville, Georgia. He grew up on a farm. When he was 18 years old, he decided to start his own formal education. He studied law by reading books and learning from others. Soon after, he opened his own law office in Knoxville. His law business quickly became very successful.
Joining the Army
When the American Civil War began in 1861, Thomas Simmons joined the Confederate States Army. He was part of the first group from his county, called Crawford's Grays. His group joined the Sixth Georgia regiment. He started as a private soldier but was quickly promoted to Lieutenant. In 1862, he became a Lieutenant Colonel in the 45th regiment. Later, he was made a Colonel. He fought in many important battles, including the Battle of Big Bethel. He was part of nearly every major fight of the Confederate Army of the Potomac.
A Career in Politics
After the war ended, Thomas Simmons continued to serve his state. In 1865, he was part of the Georgia Constitutional Convention. This was a special meeting to write new rules for the state government. Later that same year, he was elected to the Georgia State Senate. He represented the 23rd District of Georgia.
He served in the state senate for six years. For four of those years, he was the leader of the joint finance committee. This committee handled money matters for the state. He also helped write the state's rules again in the Constitutional Convention of 1877.
Serving as a Judge
Thomas Simmons was chosen twice by the state legislature to be a Circuit Judge. He served in the Macon Circuit, which meant he oversaw court cases in that area.
Leading the Supreme Court
In September 1887, Thomas Simmons was elected to be an associate Justice on the Supreme Court of Georgia. This is the highest court in the state. In October 1894, he was promoted to Chief Justice. He held this important position until he passed away in 1905.
