Getting to know resident Chester historian Twyla “Ms. T” Simpkins
Ms. T's Corner
Welcome to Ms. T's Corner: Reflections of a lifelong Chester resident. Twyla, "Ms. T" Simpkins has been called "Chester's modern day historian." She brings to many projects the institutional memory as well as a profound understanding of both the local history of Chester and its place in the larger history of the region and country.
The Yes We Can Achievement & Cultural Center of Chester provides children with a safe place to learn and grow, helps women and families to gain stability and financial security through a variety of support networks & mentors young women to become future leaders and so much more.
From the Chester Made Files
About Ms. T
Twyla ‘Ms. T’ Simpkins taught in the Chester Upland School District for 35 years before retiring in 2008. She has since become the Founding Director of the Yes We Can Achievement and Cultural Center, a Chester-based 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the elimination of racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity. She plays an active role in the Chester community, participating in many events as an archivistorian and storyteller. A graduate of the Pennsylvania State University, she currently has a BS in Secondary English Education. Her post graduate work has earned her an equivalency Masters as she continues this summer with additional coursework towards a dual certification in African American Studies.
Twyla, "Ms. T" Simpkins has been called "Chester's modern day historian." She brings to many projects the institutional memory as well as a profound understanding of both the local history of Chester and its place in the larger history of the region and country. She regularly contributes to the humanities-based, community revitalization efforts of Chester Made and the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, assisting with the delivery of local history programming for events. Twyla is a master storyteller and passionate advocate for Chester.