Arnold Nicholsen (2002)

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, to Peter and Gurine Nicholson (Norwegian ancestry), Arnold and his parents moved to Greenville in 1920 when he was six. Arnold graduated from GCS in 1931, attended the University of Alabama and Columbia University, and help train WWII troops at Bethany College (WV).

After the war Arnold returned to his parents’ boardinghouse/farm and assumed responsibility for the resorts development in the 1940s. He married Mae Zulch in 1940 and they had three children – Gary, Wayne, and Gail. Arnold oversaw a string of changes and improvements – new buildings, Lake Loree, a golf course – until his death, and his influence exudes even today.

Active in community affairs, Arnold served as Town Supervisor, Chairman of the Greene County Board of Supervisors, member of the Masonic Lodge, charter member of the Freehold Fire Company, and president of the Chamber of Commerce.

During his tenure as Town Supervisor between 1952-1962, Arnold oversaw the modernization of Greenville’s road system, the erection of the town building, the initiation of the Old Timers Christmas party, assessment equalization, and a greater use of business practices.

His tradition of business success and community spirit still lives with his children and grandchildren on top of his “sunny hill.”

- by Don Teator, Greenville Town Historian