CC and Asenath Ann Kennedy Simmons in about 1864

In 1864, Asenath Ann Kennedy and Christopher Columbus (CC) Simmons eloped via a “rudely fashioned rowboat.” Asenath Ann was only 14, and CC 19. Legend has it that Asenath Ann placed a piece of paper inscribed with the number 18 in her shoe, so she could answer the preacher truthfully when he asked “Are you over 18?” The couple lived to celebrate their 60^th wedding anniversary.

Unknown photographer, about 1864, State Capital Museum collection, Washington State Historical Society

Text © Deborah Ross and The Olympian 2020

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