Trailblazers in Black History: William Nicholson (FDNY)

 

On December 6, 1898, 27-year-old William H. Nicholson, was appointed to a paid position as fireman and assigned to a firehouse in Brooklyn. This is the first known black New York City fireman. He had a short career with the Department - retiring at age 41 on January 1, 1912 having completed only 14 years of service.

Nicholson's retirement was a result of a physical disability and for that he received a pension of $700 per year. Nicholson was assigned to Engine Company 6 which was established in the year of his birth, 1869, when it was located at 14 High Sstreet, Brooklyn. The Company had relocated in 1892 to 189 Pearl Street, Brooklyn. 

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Source: Wikipedia