[Dixielandjazz] Cassino Simpson

[Paige VanVorst]

During the Frank Rosolino thread someone inquired as to the reasons for Cass Simpson's being committed to the Elgin State Hospital. 
He reportedly suffered from general paresis, the end-stage of untreated venereal disease, which can lead to insanity. The proximate cause of his incarceration was his attempt to kill Half-Pint Jaxon, a popular Chicago entertainer during the late 20s and early 30s. 
Simpson, who was one of many good Hines-style pianists around Chicago, lived at the State Hospital until his death in 1952. He was recorded there by John Steiner in the 1940s and he issued a 10" LP featuring Cass on his
Paramount label.