Seeking data on John Hicks. Changed his name to John Miller. Thought he killed someone but turns out the person didn't die. This all took place in early 1800's in Missouri. thanks, virginia

Hello, I need help with my great great grandpa John Madison Nichols ( or Nickols or Nicholds) who lived in Troy, Lincoln County, Missouri in the 1860's and early 1870's . If anyone has the 1870 census could you tell me the members of the household? and the ages? If there are land records are available I would love to have info as to where to look for them. Please, also can you tell me where to look for death information for his first wife Harriet (Cooke) Nickols (or other spellings) the year was 1858. I know I ask a lot but, I would really appreciate any help you could give me. Thanks in advance. Charlene Peel rpeel@inland.net