[1] He began preparatory studies in Laurel, completing them at a seminary in Nelson County, Virginia, possibly the Presbyterian school at Lynchburg.

Nicholson began his career as briefly the superintendent of the free schools of Kent County in 1851.

In addition he served as brigadier general of militia in Kent County in 1861.

Nicholson died at Dover and is buried there in the Old Presbyterian Cemetery, on the grounds of the Delaware State Museum.

His home, Wheel of Fortune, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.