Edward James Nicholson

Edward James Nicholson is a worthy representative of one of the pioneer families of Allamakee county. He devotes his entire time and attention to the operation of a tract of one hundred and twenty acres, located in Fairview township, and each year is adding to his financial resources. The farm on which he now resides was also the place of his birth, his natal day being June 13, 1879. His parents, William and Mary (Galagher) Nicholson, were both natives of the Emerald isle, the former born in County Galway and the latter in the County of West Meath. The father was a tanner, learning his trade in his native country. Following his emigration to the new world he was employed in a tannery in Amsterdam, New York, for a time, and later in connection with his father-in-law, he owned and conducted a tannery near that city. The plant was eventually destroyed by fire and Mr. Nicholson subsequently removed to Allamakee county and engaged in farming, continuing in this occupation until the time of his demise, which occurred February 6, 1894, when he had reached the age of sixty-two years. The mother, who was born in 1835, departed this life on the 26th of September, 1909, having reached the advanced age of seventy-four years. Edward James Nicholson was reared on the home farm and was trained to farm labor under his father's able direction. When not busy in this world he attended the district schools and therein fitted himself for a practical business life. At the age of eighteen years, his father having died in the meantime, he assumed the management of the homestead, remaining with his mother until her death. He is now the owner of the farm, comprising one hundred and twenty acres of well improved land, which annually yields good harvests in return for his labors. On the place are also found substantial farm buildings and a modern house. Mr. Nicholson is engaged in general farming and stock raising and is meeting with success.

Mr. Nicholson established a home of his own on the 9th of October, 1911, by his marriage to Miss Catherine Finnegan, who is likewise a native of Fairview township, born January 13, 1891. She is the third in order of birth in a family of four children, born unto Patrick and Anna (O'Brien) Finnegan, the former born in Canada, November 15, 1855, while the mother's birth occurred in Taylor township, Allamakee county, September 1, 1860. The father came to the states with his parents when a lad of six years. He is now the owner of a valuable farm in Fairview township and is actively engaged in its operation.

Mr. and Mrs. Nicholson have a son, Cleophus Anthony, who was born on the 2d of October, 1912. Mr. Nicholson gives his political support to the democratic party but he has never aspired to public office. He is a communicant of the Roman Catholic church at Cherry Mound. He is a wide-awake, energetic young man, and while he has already met with success, the future no doubt holds in store for him still greater prosperity.

-transcribed by Cathy Joynt-Labath

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