W. T. Nichols was born in Williamson Co TN 22 Aug 1842.  He came to Texas in 1846 with his parents, Andrew T. & Susan Temple Nichols.

He was the nephew of William & Louisa Temple Nash.

The Nichols family settled first in San Augustine County and later in Panola County, where they were enumerated on the 1850 census.  By 1854 they were living in Kaufman County where William's father died in August 1859.

In 1861 William joined the 19th TX Cavalry under Dubart Murphy and served for the duration of the war.

He served as a Deputy Sheriff under A. T. Wilson, and was also Constable of Precinct 1 for a term.  Elected Assessor & Collector of Taxes in Kaufman County for 2 terms - first in 1880 and next in 1882.

William was totally dedicated to his mother and did not marry until after her death.  He is seen in all census records living in her home through 1880.

He died 15 Apr 1895 and is buried in Kaufman City Cemetery next to his mother.

The Terrell Times Star - 19 Apr 1895 - Friday

"W T Nichols died in this city Monday at age 52.  He leaves a wife and three children.  His remains were taken to Kaufman for burial."