The Nicholas
Legacy
Founded in 1974 by Randolph Nicholas, Nicholas has grown from a small entrepreneurial venture into a respected cultural institution serving generations of customers throughout New York City and beyond.
What began with a single man selling merchandise from the trunk of his car has grown into a lasting legacy spanning more than five decades—one that continues to impact customers, artisans, entrepreneurs, and the community at large.
Explore Our WellnessWhere It All
Began
Long before there was a permanent storefront, there was a trunk full of wares, flea market tables, and a dedication to service. These are the earliest photographs of Randolph Nicholas's journey — the flea-market stalls on Jamaica Avenue and the wholesale storefront, Nicolas Novelty Sales, that laid the groundwork for today's legacy.
Three Pillars of
Our Legacy
Rooted in Randolph's determination to build something of his own from the trunk of a car. We believe in self-reliance, opportunity, and supporting local craftspeople and vendors in establishing their own paths.
We are pioneers in retail for African and Caribbean cultural merchandise. We honor our heritage by providing space for handmade, authentic products, Rasta belts, artwork, and cultural accessories.
Nicholas Brooklyn is more than a store — it is a community hub, a holistic sanctuary, and a destination for education, wellness, and self-empowerment across generations.
Five Decades of
Culture & Service
The Trunk Beginnings
While working as a New York City UPS driver, Randolph Nicholas recognizes an opportunity during a strike to build something of his own. Using connections from his delivery routes, he begins selling black light posters, novelty items, body oils, and jewelry from the trunk of his car.
Jamaica Avenue Flea Market
As local demand grows, Randolph expands into a flea market on Jamaica Avenue in Queens. Operating two booths, one dedicated to vinyl records and the other to novelties, incense, body oils, and jewelry, he earns a reputation for dependability.
The Broadway Storefront
A retiring primary supplier entrusts Randolph with taking over a storefront at 864 Broadway in Manhattan. Randolph builds on this foundation, carrying a wide array of novelties, posters, picture frames, and jewelry.
Afrocentric & Cultural Pioneer
Nicholas expands to 870 Broadway. The store evolves as Caribbean artisans bring handmade products like Rasta belts, coconut-shell jewelry, and cultural art. Nicholas becomes a pioneering retail destination for Afrocentric merchandise and immigrant entrepreneurs.
Second Generation Leadership
Randolph's daughter, Monique Nicholas, joins the family business after graduating from Rutgers University. Immersing herself in every aspect of the business, she develops a deep appreciation for the community values and vendor connections established by her father.
Establishing Nicholas Brooklyn
Monique assumes responsibility for operating the Brooklyn location. Under her leadership, Nicholas Brooklyn expands into a unique holistic sanctuary combining wellness products, books, educational programming, and community workshops.
Still Rooted. Still Growing.
Spanning more than five decades, Nicholas Brooklyn remains a family-owned beacon of cultural pride, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment, serving new generations in New York City and beyond.
Fifty Years,
Told by the People
Who Lived It
Hundreds of people were able to start their own business through my father, Randolph Nicholas.Monique Nicholas — Owner
Monique on the earliest days — a UPS driver selling from the trunk of his car — followed by the vendors, makers, and neighbours who have since made Nicholas Brooklyn their own.
- Monique NicholasOwner, Nicholas Brooklyn
- ChrisFounder, Cura Alkaline Wellness
- MishariContent creator, Nicholas BK
- Scott BernhardInstructor, Afrobeat Burnout
Empowering through
Culture & Wellness
Nicholas Brooklyn is more than a retail space. Under Monique Nicholas's leadership, the Fulton Street location has grown into a unique community hub that combines wellness products, books, cultural merchandise, educational programming, and holistic health offerings.
Through workshops, lectures, and vendor partnerships, we carry forward Randolph's pioneering vision of opportunity — giving local artists, makers, and healers a platform to reach their community.
It is a legacy built not only on the quality products we curate, but on the people we support, the community we empower, and the culture we preserve.
Meet the CommunityFrequently Asked
Questions
Is Nicholas Brooklyn Black-owned?
Yes. Nicholas Brooklyn was founded in 1974 by Randolph Nicholas and is still run by his family today, led by his daughter, Monique Nicholas.
How long has Nicholas Brooklyn been open?
Since 1974 — more than fifty years. The business started with Randolph Nicholas selling from the trunk of his car, moved through a flea market stand and two Manhattan storefronts, and has operated as Nicholas Brooklyn on Fulton Street since Monique Nicholas took over the location in 2006.
Where is Nicholas Brooklyn located?
The flagship store is at 1396 Fulton Street in Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY 11216. A second location in Harlem, Nicholas on 3rd, is coming soon.
Does Nicholas Brooklyn ship nationwide?
Yes. Products are available online at nicholasbrooklyn.com and ship nationwide, in addition to in-store shopping at both locations.
Who founded Nicholas Brooklyn?
Randolph Nicholas founded the business in 1974. His daughter, Monique Nicholas, has run the Brooklyn location since 2006.
Come see us at 1396 Fulton St in Brooklyn, or shop online:Health & Wellness,Fragrance Body Oils,Incense,Books,African Black Soap and thefull store. We ship nationwide.
PEOPLE &CULTURE
We remain committed to supporting small business owners, artists, healers, and future generations—preserving culture and strengthening community.