Four Generations of Homebuilders

In 1903, the Wright Brothers conducted flying practice runs at Simms Station, the Simms family farm. Since then, Dayton’s history and the Simms name have been intertwined. Four generations of homebuilders in the Dayton area have continued the Simms Tradition that is recognized throughout the building industry.

Alexander Simms became a major developer and builder in the Miami Valley, sparking the next 3 generations of building and pioneering the Simms Tradition of “Quality Comes First.” In a move ahead of its time, Alex’s wife Dorothy Simms took over the business while Alex became a fighter pilot in WWII as part of the war effort overseas and back home.

The Practical Builder Trophy was awarded to W.A. Simms for “Excellence in Merchandising of Homes 1954.” Presented at the National Association of Home Builders Convention of January 17, 1955, in Chicago, Illinois.

In 1957, Charles V. Simms founded Charles V. Simms Development and continued the Simms Tradition in single-family, condominium, and apartment developments.

In 1966, Charles V. Simms served as President of the Ohio Home Builders Association.

In 1969, Charles V. Simms served as President of the Home Builders Association of Metropolitan Dayton.

Starting in 1985, Charles began working with his son, Charles H. Simms. They continued to offer innovative home designs in the most desirable locations.

Simms’ Monument Walk in Downtown Dayton was featured on the Distinctive Homes cover in the Oakwood Register. It featured a full article on Dayton’s newest luxury addresses brought to you by Charles Simms Development.

In 2015, Charles H. Simms was the recipient of the Community Service Award by the Dayton Area Board of Realtors.

Written while Charles Simms was president of the Ohio Home Builders Association, this article focused on Charles’ plans for the association in the upcoming year.

Robert K. Simms (Robi) starts to work for his father Charles H. Simms as a field superintendent.

Charles Simms Development receives the Preservation Dayton Golden Hammer Award for the Brownstones at 2nd community built in downtown Dayton.