Dr. Robert Cunningham Simpson, who proved his loyalty and devotion to country by gallant service on the battle fields of France, is now numbered among the successful physicians of Amsterdam and fully meets the requirements of his profession. He is one of the city's native sons and was born January 19, 1887, of the union of Robert Cunningham and Martha Augusta Simpson, prominent residents of Amsterdam. After finishing his high school course he matriculated in the medical department of Union University, which in 1915 awarded him the M. D. degree, and during 1915-16 he was a postgraduate student at the Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons. He then became an interne at the New York City Hospital and on April 20, 1917, enlisted in the New York National Guard. He was commissioned a first lieutenant in the Medical Corps on March 10, 1918, and went overseas with the Seventieth Artillery. He spent a year at the front and on September 1, 1919, received his honorable discharge, at which time he was holding the rank of captain. Soon afterward he opened an office in Amsterdam and in the intervening period he has gained a secure foothold in his profession, to which he gives his undivided attention. He is well versed in the science of medicine and utilizes his knowledge to the best possible advantage in his efforts to alleviate suffering and check the ravages of disease. He has a large practice and is a member of the staffs of the Amsterdam City and St. Mary's Hospitals.
On the 4th of May, 1918, Dr. Simpson was married to Miss Katharine Knox Smeallie, a daughter of James A. Smeallie of Amsterdam. Dr. and Mrs. Simpson have one child: James Donald, born February 11, 1924. An older son, Robert Knox Simpson, was born January 7, 1921, and died January 25, 1924.
Dr. Simpson is a republican and manifests a deep interest in civic affairs. He has done much to improve the public school facilities of Amsterdam, serving as president of the board of education from May, 1921, until May, 1924, and through his connection with the board of trade is working for the commercial progress of the city. He is identified with the Masonic order, the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks and the Masonic Club, while his professional relations are with the Amsterdam City, Montgomery County and New York State Medical Societies and the American Medical Association. Studious by nature, he is constantly promoting his efficiency through reading and investigation and his marked ability and genuine worth have earned for him a high place in the esteem of the residents of Amsterdam, among whom his life has been passed.