NICHOLS, Luke (1806-1880)

NICHOLS

Posted By: Hancock Co Genealogical Society
Date: 4/7/2022 at 15:15:20

Died - Mr. Luke Nichols departed this life on the 24th of June 1880, aged 74 years. Our community was startled by the sad news of Mr. Nichols being initially gored by his bull. On the 21st of June Mr. Nichols after feeding his ponies, came out of the stable, with a pitchfork in his hand. The bull made angry demonstrations towards him, and Mr. Nichols defended himself. Finally the animal became furious and rushed on him, bearing him to the earth, with a horn on each side of his body, and with his whole weight crushed his breast bone and breaking 12 ribs. A. J. Chase and E. Bowker being at hand beat off the animal with clubs, and the injured man rose to his feet and walked to the house without support.

Mr. Nichols was born in Vermont, and after attaining the age of manhood he removed to Washington Co, N. Y. where he was married to Miss Maria Goodale. Forty two years ago he migrated to Kane Co., Ill. and from there he removed to Genoa, DeKalb County., in the same state. About 12 years since he commenced improving his farm in Hancock county. Mr. Nichols was a good husband, a kind father and a warm hearted friend. He was generous and willing to assist the needy when worthy of charity, He was a good specimen of the American pioneer. During his long life he was a farmer, hotel keeper, merchant, post master and has filled many township offices and discharged his duties to the satisfaction of the public. Two years since Mr. N. retired from active business, and settled down to enjoy the proceeds of honest toil. He was in comfortable circumstances. Some 18 or 20 years ago when he bought his land here he came on to see the land and country. On his return homeward he traveled from Forest City to Mankato on foot, using his cane to guide him through the streams when fording them sometimes he had to remove his clothing.

We write the above a last tribute to the memory of a dear departed friend who has left us the inestimable legacy of honesty, industry, charity, and integrity a fit example for others to follow.

W.G.R.
Illinois papers please copy

source: Forest City Summit, 1 Jul 1880, page 3, column 3