There is no department of public service which more nearly concerns the welfare of the entire population than that of which Mr. Nicholson is chief—the fire department, and in this connection he has rendered most capable service, winning encomiums by reason of the high standard of efficiency which he has introduced into the department.

A native of Ohio, he was born in Washington, that state, on the 27th of January, 1852, and there spent the first six years of his life. In 1858 the family removed to Payson, Illinois, where he was reared and acquired his education as a public-school student.

In 1872, when a young man of twenty years, Mr. Nicholson came to Council Bluffs. He established a meat market here in 1895, which he conducted for two years, or until about 1897.

In 1892 he had been made chief of the fire department and served in that capacity for three years. In 1901 he returned to the department as captain of Company No. 4, Truck No. 1 and so served for two years, when he resigned and went to Montana, where he engaged in the cattle business. Some time afterward he again came to Council Bluffs and in 1907 was once more made chief of the fire department, in which capacity he is now rendering signal service to his fellow townsmen.

Mr. Nicholson was married in Council Bluffs in 1877 to Miss Mary Schiferli, and they have two sons, William and Harry F.

Mr. Nicholson belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, to the Knights of Pythias Fraternity, the Woodmen of the World and is past president of Aerie No. 104, Fraternal Order of Eagles.

His political allegiance is given to the democracy but while he has never been a politician in the sense of office seeking he has made a creditable record in public service and in his present position is well entitled to mention among those who are loyal to the public good.