Armistead S. Nickens facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Armistead S. Nickens
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| Member of the Virginia House of Delegates from Lancaster County | |
| In office December 6, 1871 – December 1, 1875 |
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| Preceded by | John S. Chowning |
| Succeeded by | T. Spicer Curlett |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Armistead Stokalas Nickens
July 1836 Lancaster County, Virginia, U.S. |
| Died | April 26, 1906 (aged 69) Kilmarnock, Virginia, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouses | Sophronia Wood Violet Watkins |
Armistead Stokalas Nickens (born 1836, died 1906) was an important American politician. He was a member of the Republican Party. Nickens served in the Virginia House of Delegates, which is part of Virginia's government. He represented Lancaster County from 1871 to 1875. He was also one of the first African Americans to hold a government position in Virginia.
Early Life and Family
Armistead Nickens was born around 1836. His parents were Polly Weaver and Armistead Nickens. His family had a long history of freedom. For example, his ancestors Richard and Chriss were freed in 1690. His grandfather, Elijah Weaver, was a seaman during the American Revolutionary War.
Nickens' father taught him to read and write. He loved learning and bought books to study on his own. Sadly, his father passed away in 1850. This meant young Armistead and his brother John likely started working early. Records show he worked as a laborer and then as a sawyer.
Armistead Nickens married twice. His first wife was Sophronia Wood. She passed away around 1869 or 1870. They had a son named Holland and a daughter named Sarah. Later, he married Violet Jones in 1871. Violet grew up near the Nickens family. They had twins, Joseph and Josephine, and another daughter named Sophronia.
Political Career and Achievements
Armistead Nickens worked hard to support his family. He was first a laborer, then a sawyer. The people of Lancaster County chose him twice to be their representative. He served in the Virginia House of Delegates.
During his time in government, Nickens worked on important projects. He suggested a plan to build a bridge over the Rappahannock River. This bridge would have connected communities. After his time as a lawmaker, he was appointed to collect unpaid taxes.
One of his most important achievements was helping his community. He built the very first schoolhouse for African Americans in Lancaster County. This helped many children get an education.
Later Life and Legacy
Armistead Nickens passed away in 1906. He was buried in his family's cemetery. This cemetery overlooked the Kamps and Carters Millpond.
In 1990, a special portrait of Armistead Nickens was given to the Lancaster Court. This portrait now hangs there, honoring his contributions. It reminds people of his important role in Virginia's history.
See also
