At New Market, Simmons exploited the power of Tumwater Falls to construct mills, but in 1850 sold his interests at New Market and moved to Olympia. Simmons invested in shipping and, despite being illiterate, became Olympia's postmaster.
At New Market, Simmons exploited the power of Tumwater Falls to build mills, but by 1850, he had divested himself of his interests there and moved to Olympia. Simmons then invested in shipping, overcoming significant obstacles due to his lack of literacy, and ultimately became a prominent figure in Olympia, specifically as its postmaster.