the family of Robert Mitchell Nicholas
The Nicholas family made an interesting impact on Jamaican society, from the mid-1800s onwards. The patriarch of the family, Robert Mitchell Nicholas, was born in Kingston in the 1830s into a family already established as members of the Methodist church, especially of Wesley Chapel. He went to the Wesley Day School at the Coke Chapel, and then to the Mico Juvenile School. After leaving school he entered the building trade, and later ranked as one of the leading master builders in the city. He was frequently employed on government building contracts. Throughout his life he was a devoted member of Wesley Chapel, serving the church in many capacities. He was also a member of two Friendly Societies, the Odd Fellows and the Foresters. He was widely loved and respected for his kindness, and his service to his community. In 1891-2 he was elected to the City Council of Kingston.
His family life was exemplary. He had four sons and two daughters, and the death of his wife, Charlotte, in 1886, brought to an end what had apparently been a very happy marriage. He gave his children the great gift of introducing them to the world of books, and encouraging them in the pursuit of knowledge.
When he died in 1893 a considerable congregation gathered to pay their tribute to a devoted family man, churchman and Jamaican citizen.
His family life was exemplary. He had four sons and two daughters, and the death of his wife, Charlotte, in 1886, brought to an end what had apparently been a very happy marriage. He gave his children the great gift of introducing them to the world of books, and encouraging them in the pursuit of knowledge.
When he died in 1893 a considerable congregation gathered to pay their tribute to a devoted family man, churchman and Jamaican citizen.