John J. Nichols, merchant of Clifton, Tenn., is a Perry County Tennessean, born July 2, 1855; son of John J. and Martha J. (Buckner) Nichols. Our subjects Grandfather Nichols came from North Carolina to Tennessee at an early day, and located in Hardin County. His son John J., was born in North Carolina, but spent the greater part of his life in Perry County, following mercantile pursuits and the slave business, until his death, when our subject was but two years old. The mother died in 1868, thus leaving our subject to do for himself at an early age. He secured a fair education, and when about eighteen years of age , engaged in mercantile business as clerk. In 1879 he came to Clifton and clerked until 1882, when he engaged in the family grocery business. In May, 1884, he removed to his present quarters, and added dry goods and general merchandise to his stock, and now carries a full and select line of goods. Besides this he handles a line of agricultural implements and wagons, being agent for the Harrison wagon. he is a Democrat, and is considered a reliable business man of the town. In 1876 he Married Rutha J. Harbour, of Hardin County. They have one child, Edna Belle.