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Article by Kay Collins, 2011
Alfred Thomas Nichols - plumber
Nichols
1900 Advert in the Rushden Echo

Alfred Thomas Nichols came to Rushden from Northampton in about 1894, with his wife Ethel. He was trading from 10 Church Street as a sanitary and water works plumber, glazier, painter, paper-hanger and gas fitter. In November 1896 the Council passed plans for a showroom and warehouse to be erected. By 1901 they had three children; Alfred, John and Dorothy.

Aerial photograph The advert
This aerial photograph shows both the house at 10 Church Street,
the 1896 warehouse, (both with adverts painted), and 4 Alfred Street.
No 10 - with painted advertising
A smaller advert is on the warehouse

About 1916 the family moved to No 4 Alfred Street, where they remained until at least 1940.
Alfred died aged 83 and was buried in Rushden cemetery on 5th November 1953.

Rushden Echo, 8th November, 1918

Rushden's Casualty List
Mr. and Mrs. A. T. Nichols, of Alfred-street, Rushden, have received a letter from their son, Bombardier John Nichols, R.G.A., stating that he is in hospital in Palestine, suffering from an affection of the heart.  Bombardier Nichols was one of the first to cross the river Jordan.

The warehouse
The warehouse in Coffee Tavern Place in 2011
Included in a sale in 1912
2018 rear view of Oak Lodge outhouse and the back wall of warehouse (right)

Oak Lodge in about 1950 No 10 in 2008 No 4 Alfred Street
Oak Lodge - The advert overpainted
"Helen Buttling - Ladies Hair Stylist"
In 2008 - Hakkers Hair Salon &
Oak Lodge - No 10 Church Street
No 4 Alfred Street in 2009
Now Waterwise plumbers


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