allen nichols
1843-1913
Life Story
Allen Nichols was born about 1846, likely in Virginia, to Ann Dennis (born about 1821). While details of his early life remain uncertain, it is probable that he spent his youth in Virginia before relocating to Mississippi in the years following the Civil War. Like many African Americans of his generation, Allen sought to establish a new life grounded in family, faith, and hard work during the Reconstruction era.
By 1870, Allen had married Jervey Nichols (born about 1852), and together they settled in the Hickory area of Newton County, Mississippi. There, Allen worked as a farmer, cultivating his land and providing for his growing family. From this union, the following children were born:
- Ada Louise Nichols (1885–1968)
- Valentine Nichols (1885–?)
- Minnie Nichols (1889–1962)
- Ann Nichols (1891–?)
- Worth Nichols (1895–?)
Following Jervey’s lifetime, Allen married Tina Nichols (born about 1861). From this second marriage, one child was born:
- Walter Nichols (1896–?)
Allen was known throughout his life for his dedication to farming and his quiet leadership within his community. The Nichols family maintained close ties to the Altare Missionary Baptist Church, one of the most enduring spiritual and cultural centers for African American families in Newton County.
Allen Nichols passed away on December 5, 1913, in Hickory, Newton County, Mississippi, at approximately 67 years of age. His death certificate lists the cause of death as cardiac asthenia (heart weakness), with chronic indigestion as a contributing factor.
He was laid to rest at the Altare Missionary Baptist Church graveyard, a resting place shared by generations of families who shaped the life and faith of the Altare community.
Resting Place
Altare Missionary Baptist Church Graveyard
Photos/Albums
Sources
- 1870 Federal Census
- 1900 Federal Census
- 1910 Federal Census
- Mississippi, U.S., Index to Deaths, 1912-1943
- U.S., Find A Grave Index, 1600s-Current
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