He studied at Trinity College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in 1870.

[2][3] Nichols served as private secretary to Bishop John Williams of Connecticut between 1871 and 1876.

He was initially assistant at Holy Trinity Church in Middletown, Connecticut, from 1873 until 1875.

He was then elected Coadjutor Bishop of California on February 6, 1890, during a special diocesan convention, and was consecrated on June 24, 1890, by Presiding Bishop John Williams at St James’ Church in Philadelphia.

Nichols died in office at St. Luke's Hospital in San Francisco on June 5, 1924.