Peter Gibson

Peter Gibson was born in 1908 in Arklow, County Wicklow. He was the second son of John Gibson, a sett-maker and stone dresser, and Elizabeth Kavanagh.

1911 Census of Ireland

Enumerated as a 2-year-old grandson living at Rock Big, Arklow, in the household of his paternal grandfather, Peter Gibson (a quarry labourer). He is listed alongside his parents, John and Elizabeth, and his elder sister, Margaret Mary.  

1926 Census of Ireland

Enumerated at Finner Camp, Bundoran, County Donegal, serving as a Private in the Defence Forces (Department of Defence or Óglaigh na hÉireann). He is recorded as a 17-year-old single Roman Catholic, born in Arklow, County Wicklow.

Following the establishment of the Irish Free State in 1922 - Finner Camp in Bundoran, County Donegal, was a major active military base for the newly formed Irish army.

Peter had enlisted in the standing national army as a teenager, likely on a short-term regular or reserve enlistment, before eventually making his way back home to Wicklow.

Marriage to Elizabeth Cullen

Peter married Elizabeth Cullen on 11 September 1938 at the Roman Catholic Church of Arklow. At the time of marriage, Peter was working as a labourer, residing at 20 St. Brigid's Terrace, Arklow. His father is confirmed as John Gibson (Sett-Dresser). Elizabeth Cullen was a spinster residing at 3 Taffan's Lane, Arklow, daughter of Michael Cullen (Sailor). 

The ceremony was officiated by Fr. Michael Behan, with Owen J. Lynch and Ellen Donohoe serving as witnesses.