Nicholson, in Jackson County, was originally named Cooper in honor of the Willis Cooper Farm. Its name officially changed to Nicholson on February 2, 1882, in tribute to J. Nicholson, president of the Northeastern Railroad, who agreed to place a fuel stop in the town. Officially incorporated in 1907, its charter became inactive for 35 years following the Great Depression but was reenacted in 1972. Pride in community and country and a patriotic spirit have led many residents to serve honorably in the armed forces. Religion and education have always been central to community life, with churches in the area dating to the late 1700s and schools playing a major role in the lives of local residents. Although predominantly an agricultural community, Nicholson is home to a number of small businesses and public service organizations, including the Nicholson Water Authority, the Nicholson Area Volunteer Fire Department, and the Harold S. Swindle Public Library. Continuous growth has brought new businesses, new churches, and new schools to serve an ever changing population.