A reference from the Pennsylvania Gazette on September 11, 1740, is considered one of the earliest documented mentions of an African American practicing medicine or dentistry in the American colonies. Simon, described as being able to “bleed and draw teeth,” was likely skilled in both phlebotomy and tooth extraction—common medical practices of the time.

During the colonial period, African Americans, both enslaved and free, often served as healers, midwives, and herbalists. Many gained medical knowledge through apprenticeships, indigenous and African healing traditions, or informal training under European doctors. Despite systemic barriers, individuals like Simon paved the way for later African American medical professionals such as James Derham (the first recognized African American physician) and Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler (the first African American woman to earn an M.D.).