Frederick Embleton Simpson
Frederick Embleton Simpson (1859-1945), County Surveyor for Devon
1945 Died. 'The death occurred at Oaklie, Broadclyst, of Mr. Frederick Embleton Simpson, who, for fifty years before his retirement in 1928 from the position of surveyor under Devon County Council, had been engaged in connection with public works in the county. '[1]
1945 Obituary. 'Mr F. E. Simpson was born at Chirton in 1859. His father was a cab proprietor in the town, the business being aquired by Messrs Maw after his death or upon his retirement. Serving his articles (with the late Colonel F. R. N. Haswell. F.R.I.B.A.. of North Shields, Mr Simpson began his career in the West-country with the late Mr E. H. Harbottle, of Exeter, in 1881. As chief assistant to the County Surveyor and Architect, he was associated with him in carrying out the Devon County Hospital building at Exminster, and a new wing to the County Council offices at the castle of Exeter. In 1896 Mr Simpson was appointed Surveyor to the New Heavitree Urban District Council, with whom he remained for 18 years, until the district was attached to the City of Exeter in 1914. He was then offered the post of City Architect, but declined. Subsequently he was appointed by St. Thomas Rural Council as resident Engineer, and under his supervision Topsham new water works were carried out. On the outbreak of war in, 1914, Mr S:mpson's services were requisitioned by Devon County Council. He, was appointed County Surveyor. In 1922 Mr Simpson received the appointment of County Surveyor for the Eastern Division, with headquarters at Exeter. On his retirement in 1928. glowing tributes were paid by the Devon County Council to the public services rendered by Mr Simpson.'[2]