William H. Nicholson (1869–1911) was the first African American fireman in the New York City Fire Department.
He was assigned to Engine Company 6 and detailed to the veterinary department to feed the horses and shovel manure.
He migrated to New York City and worked as a cement tester.
[3] He joined the New York City Fire Department in Brooklyn in 1898 and was detailed to the veterinary unit to feed the horses and shovel manure.
[1] Nicholson retired because of his bad health in 1911 and died a few weeks later.