This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: mbieliauskas Surnames: Classification: queries Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.michigan.counties.kalamazoo/22365/mb.ashx Message Board Post: I am not related, but was doing research on the Gibson name and looked this up. I had found some other articles that mention that this Mr. Gibson founded a Reading Room in Kalamazoo and then later sold his business to a William Shakespeare. He is listed in the 1860 Kalamazoo census. Any of his relatives names remain a mystery. The obit is in very tiny print and my hard copy is somewhat blurred. Died Dansville NY Dec 1867 Mr Gibson was born at Morris NY and the early years of his life was spent at this place. His parents being unable to give him such an education as he desired, young Gibson determined to provide for himself in this respect, and in 1848-9 and '50, he is perseveringly pursuing his studies at the Delaware Institute of Franklin NY, paying for his way by his own industry. In 1850, he went to the office of j. (Josiah) L. Hawes, Esq., in Coblesville to study law, for which he manifested a strong liking-and remained in that office until Mr. Hawes removed to Kalamazoo in 1851. Mr. Gibson then went to Somerville NJ, and taught school there one winter. He then came to Kalamazoo, and again studied law; but fearing his health would be inadequate to the labor consequent upon a professional life he abandoned the idea of becoming a lawyer, formed a co-partnership with j. (Jacob) K. Wagner, with whom he carried on the book trade for several years. Mr. Gibson then continued the business b! y himself, until about 2 months before his death. The last few years of his life were years of great physical suffering. He resorted to every means that were suggested and that he could obtain to regain his health-but to no purpose. His last hope of relief was the Dansville Water Cure establishment, whither he went a few weeks since. His last moments were were soothed and made blessed by the presence, care and devotion of one who, in her love and fidelity, repeats the noblest lessons of earthly affection. There is more on this obit about his fine library and love of books and it ends by saying his remains were taken to be buried in Utica NY, where he had relatives. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.