Nicholas Sickles

Nicholas Sickles (September 11, 1801 – May 13, 1845) was an American attorney and politician in the U.S. state of New York. He was born in Kinderhook, New York, on September 11, 1801, in a region that would produce several notable figures in early American political life. Raised in Kinderhook, he attended private schools and later Kinderhook Academy, receiving the type of classical and preparatory education that was common for aspiring professionals in the early nineteenth century.

After completing his preparatory studies, Sickles pursued the study of law. He read law in the traditional manner of the period and was admitted to the bar in 1823. Following his admission, he commenced the practice of law in Kingston, New York. His legal career in Kingston established him as a practicing attorney in Ulster County, positioning him for later roles in public service and local legal administration.

Sickles entered national politics as a supporter of Andrew Jackson and the Jacksonian movement. Identified in contemporary terms as a member of the Jackson Party and more broadly as a Jacksonian, he was elected as a Jacksonian candidate to the Twenty-fourth Congress. He represented New York in the United States House of Representatives for one term, serving from December 7, 1835, to March 3, 1837. During this single term in Congress, he participated in the legislative process at a time of significant political realignment and expanding democratic participation, representing the interests of his New York constituents in the national legislature.

Following his service in Congress, Sickles returned to legal and public office in Ulster County. In 1836 and 1837, he served as prosecuting attorney of Ulster County, New York, reflecting the continued confidence placed in his legal abilities and public judgment. His work as prosecuting attorney involved representing the county in criminal matters and reinforced his standing as a prominent legal figure in the region.

Later in his career, Sickles held judicial and administrative responsibilities in county government. He served as surrogate of Ulster County, an office responsible for probate and related matters, from January 1, 1844, until his death. In this capacity, he oversaw the administration of estates and other surrogate court functions, continuing his long association with the legal affairs of Kingston and Ulster County.

Nicholas Sickles died in Kingston, New York, on May 13, 1845, while still serving as surrogate of Ulster County. He was interred in Houghtaling Burying Ground in Kingston. His career encompassed service as an attorney, county official, and member of the United States House of Representatives, marking him as a participant in both local and national public life during a formative period in New York and American political history.