The enduring appeal of Chagrin Falls is due, in large part, to the inspired efforts of citizens such as Gordon Nichols. The breadth of his influence is unparalleled. He was born in Chagrin Falls in 1906 and graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Adelbert College of Western Reserve University, where he earned a master’s degree in law. He conducted a private practice until 1937 when he became a corporate lawyer for Oglebay Norton Steamship Company in Cleveland. Gordon was mayor of Chagrin Falls from 1940 until 1950. He later served as president of the Chagrin Falls Board of Education, and, in 1967, the high school library was named for him. He was a founder of the Chagrin Valley Recreation Center and served that organization for 42 years. The recreation building on the high school grounds also bears his name. An actor earlier in his life, he was active in the Chagrin Valley Little Theatre for 50 years. Twice president of the Chagrin Valley Chamber of Commerce, he was, in 1975, named director for life of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce. Following his retirement from Oglebay Norton, Gordon commuted to Mason City, Iowa to further his education in yet another discipline —auctioneering. This skill he used for fundraising events for volunteer organizations in his community. He died in Chagrin Falls in 1990.