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Thomas Jamieson (Tom) Gibson (1830–1916)

from Albury Banner and Wodonga Express

Thomas Gibson, n.d.

Thomas Gibson, n.d.

from Pastoral Review, 15 July 1916

We regret having to announce the death of Mr. Thomas Jamieson Faithful Gibson, of Burrumbuttock, who passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 85. Mr. Gibson had been ailing for some months, and in view of this fact and his great age, the end was not entirely unexpected. The deceased was probably the oldest of the pastoral residents of the South Western district, and he was, it may be said, typical of the pioneer class now rapidly disappearing. The son of Dr. Gibson — one of the earliest settlers in the Goulburn district — he purchased the Burrumbuttock and Bulgandra stations in 1858, and he underwent all the hardships and discomforts incidental to the life of those who set out to subdue the wilderness. Even at that time Albury was the official and commercial centre of the surrounding district, but it was only accessible from Burrumbuttock by a roundabout route, by way of Gerogery. Mr. Gibson, however, felt convinced that the Jindera ranges did not constitute an insuperable barrier to a more direct road between the two places, and having ascertained that there was a practicable pass in the hills, he made further investigations, which enabled him to drive a spring cart into Albury over what is now known as the Jindera Gap, by a track which to-day forms the recognised thoroughfare from Albury to Jindera. When the Land Act of Sir John Robertson came into effect the station was somewhat cut up by free selection. He was, however, able later on to secure some of these blocks, and thus built up a fairly large holding upon free hold tenure. He effected all necessary improvements, and, having a thorough grasp of the principles of sheep breeding, he built up a fine strain of merinos, the clip of which always commands a high price in the Melbourne market. Among other vicissitudes of bush life Mr. Gibson had an unpleasant experience with bush rangers. On one occasion Morgan visited the station, and the owner, taken unawares, would probably have been shot but for the eloquent pleading of Mrs. Gibson. Had Mr. Gibson been prepared for the visit it is likely that intercession would have been needed for the bushranger, as the 'Squire of Burrumbuttock' was a determined and plucky man, and moreover an excellent shot. Personally, he was of a quiet, retiring disposition. Athorough master of his own business, genial, kind-hearted, and ever ready to help with purse any deserving cause, he did not care to take a prominent part in public matters. He had been on the commission of the peace for over half a century, but as there was no court of petty sessions at Burrumbuttock, he seldom occupied a seat on the bench. Mr. Gibson was probably one of the best judges of live stock in the district, and his practical knowledge of veterinary science, was often realised by many of his neighbours. He was highly esteemed by a large circle of acquaintances, and affectionately regarded by those who enjoyed the privilege of greater intimacy. The funeral proceeded from the homestead on Wednesday to the railway station, and was followed by a lengthy train of mourners. The remains will be interred in the family vault at Goulburn. The Rev. Canon Bevan read a portion of the Church of England burial service at the house, and delivered an eloquent sympathetic and appreciative address. The deceased leaves a widow, one son (Mr. C. A. Gibson, of Bulgandra), three daughters, Mrs. P. Kennedy, of Albury; Misses Emily Gibson, and a third, a religieuse in the Loretto Convent at Ballarat. Very general sympathy is expressed to the survivors for the passing of one of the few remaining representatives of the old-time pioneers who did so much to make Australia a good place to live in.

Original publication

Other Obituaries for Thomas Jamieson (Tom) Gibson

Citation details

'Gibson, Thomas Jamieson (Tom) (1830–1916)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/gibson-thomas-jamieson-tom-420/text29681, accessed 19 March 2024.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2024

Thomas Gibson, n.d.

Thomas Gibson, n.d.

from Pastoral Review, 15 July 1916

Life Summary [details]

Birth

7 December, 1830
Tirrannaville, New South Wales, Australia

Death

30 May, 1916 (aged 85)
Albury, New South Wales, Australia

Cause of Death

pneumonia

Religious Influence

Includes the religion in which subjects were raised, have chosen themselves, attendance at religious schools and/or religious funeral rites; Atheism and Agnosticism have been included.

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