Celebrating Rochester's Rocky Simmons: The Life and Photographs of an African-American Activist

Rocky Simmons (1915-1994) was a dynamic presence in Rochester and an iconic figure in the black community for several decades. He was a gifted athlete, an astute politician, the first African-American Court Attendant in Monroe County, an organizer of youth activities, a professional photographer and much more. He was a man who made things happen for the better. Everyone knew Rocky. He described himself as “the last rock standing.” In this exhibit you will see photographs of Rocky throughout his life, as well as photographs that he took of the people and places he cared about.

This exhibit would not have been possible without the help of Rocky’s family: his wife Beatrice, daughters Michelle Simmons and Roxie Simmons Sinkler, and sons Wynder and Dwayne Simmons.