In 2025, the town of Nicholson is celebrating 150 years since its founding. The Nicholson Sesquicentennial Committee will plan events every month throughout the year to honor this important milestone.
The first event will be Nicholson’s Grand Hotels, a free history presentation on January 18, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Nicholson Tourism Center (21 Lackawanna Trail). Nicholson Sesquicentennial Committee member Kathy Steele will discuss six historic hotels that once flourished in town.
The month of July will focus on Nicholson’s streets, creeks, and roads. Tentative activities include a rubber duck race, an antique classic car show, a raft/kayak raffle, and a treasure hunt for local landmarks.
July will also include a Tiger Fest weekend commemorating the tiger that was on the loose in Nicholson on July 27, 1986. The incident earned national media coverage.
An official celebration will be held on the weekend Saturday, August 23, 2025, which marks the exact day in 1875 when Nicholson’s incorporation papers were filed at the Wyoming County Courthouse. From August 22 through August 24, the town will host activities like a parade, a period costume ball, guest speakers, lost art demonstrations, local music, and more.
The committee will also submit monthly feature articles to the Wyoming County Press Examiner. Each month will discuss a different theme from the town’s history.
Steele explained that most of Nicholson’s events have focused on the famous Tunkhannock Creek Viaduct, also called the Nicholson Bridge. However, the sesquicentennial provides a chance to celebrate the town itself.
“In addition to honoring the town and its 150th birthday, we want to get more community involvement,” she said. “Get to know your neighbor as well as celebrate our history.”
The committee has a long list of ideas for community events, contests, demonstrations, and more. For the latest news, follow the Nicholson Sesquicentennial on Facebook.