Margaret Gibson

Margaret Mary Gibson was born on 7 May 1907 at Rock Big, Arklow, County Wicklow. She was the eldest daughter of John Gibson, a sett-maker and stone dresser, and Elizabeth Kavanagh.

Her birth was registered on 22 May 1907 by her grandmother, Margaret Gibson, who was present at the birth.  

1911 Census of Ireland

Recorded as a 3-year-old scholar living with her parents, John and Elizabeth, and her paternal grandparents, Peter and Margaret Gibson, at Rockbog, Arklow.

1926 Census of Ireland

Margaret was an 18-year-old single woman engaged in "Home Duties" at House 20, St. Brigid's Terrace, Arklow. She resided with her parents and six younger siblings; Thomas, John, Jane, Elizabeth, and William.

Marriage to Laurence Byrne

On 30 December 1931, Margaret married Laurence Byrne (b1901) at the Roman Catholic Church of Arklow.  At the time of marriage, Margaret was residing at Abbey Street, Arklow, working in domestic service. Laurence, a musician residing at Lower Main Street, was the son of James Byrne, a postman.

The ceremony was officiated by Fr. Patrick Deering, C.C., with Edward Byrne and Margaret's sister, Janey Gibson, serving as witnesses.

Children of Laurence and Margaret

Margaret and Laurence had ten children: 

• Bridget

• James "Seamus"

• Sean "John" 

• Elizabeth

• William 

• Mairead 

• Bridget "Breda"

• Son

• Daughter

• Son

Laurence passed away on 28 January 1963 in Chorley, Lancashire, England, aged 61.  Margaret passed away on 12 December 1977, aged 70, at Seaton Delaval, Northumberland, England.