Whereas, Charles E. Nichols was born Sept. 14, 1919 his parents being James Fred Nichols and Icie Price Nichols. He has been a resident of Three Rivers since he was six months old, and after finishing grade school in Three Rivers he entered the Allen Military Academy in Bryan, to complete his education.

Whereas, Charles served his country during World War II, Army Infantry Division, serving in Belgium as a Motor Officer, and is a lifetime member of VFW Post 6119 and a member of the American Legion for 64 years.

Whereas, Charles married the beautiful Dorothy McAda on Aug. 31, 1951 and the couple became involved in many church, school and community activities. Dorothy taught school at the Three Rivers Independent School District and Charles continued ranching and became involved with the Appaloosa horses and was the 698th member of the National Appaloosa Horse Club, registered his first horse “Big Boss” (#F2084) in 1953. In recognition of the Appaloosa Bred, Charles became a founding director of the South Texas Appaloosa Breeders Club and was recognized in 2000 for his support and dedication and named a permanent director.

Whereas, the citizens of Three Rivers and Live Oak County were always thrilled to see Charles and Dorothy Nichols riding their beautiful Appaloosa horses in parades locally and in the surrounding communities. The horses were beautiful and brought pride and recognition to Three Rivers.

Whereas, some of the boys in Three Rivers would be found at the Nichols Property hoping to get to “help” Charles feed the horses, and help clean the pens for a ride.

Whereas, Charles was employed at the Three Rivers Post Office for 39 years and retired as the assistant post master. Charles pleasant smile and personality greeted the residents of Three Rivers in the post office and on his rural route. When he saw children coming in to drop mail in the out box he would stick his hand up through the slot as they received the letters. He became known as “The Thing” by the kids, taken from the popular Adams Family Series.

Whereas, his humor, friendliness, service, and pleasurable company is a delight in Three Rivers. He gathers rocks from the Nichols Ranch, organizes his feed supply to feed deer that have followed him to his back year, he honors his friends with, “Glad you got to see me,” and for close to 90 years he has hung his hat on many hat racks in stores and restaurants knowing that Three Rivers is home.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the Mayor of the City of Three Rivers: That Monday, Sept. 14, 2009 be declared Charles E. Nichols Day.