He Laid His Hand on Them and Healed Many

What an appropriate title for a window in honour of a local doctor and his wife. 

Peter McGibbon was born in St. Thomas, Ontario, on August 19, 1873. He attended Arkana Public School, Parkhill High School, and London Collegiate Institute. He continued his formal education at the University of Toronto (M.B., M.D.) and University College in London, England (MRCS, LRCP). Soon after completing his education, he was commissioned in the Royal Army Medical Corps and was the Medical Officer of the 8th Royal Berkshires at the Battle of Loos. He was wounded twice during World War One and was awarded the Military Cross for his work. He was released from service early and returned to Muskoka where he stood for election in 1917 as a Conservative, and became M.P. for the Muskoka riding. He lost the next election in 1921, but was successful in the elections of 1926 and 1930. Dr. McGibbon was also the owner of the Muskoka Herald Publishing Co., President of the Bracebridge Board of Trade, Honorary President of the Ontario Lacrosse League, and a member of the Albany Club.

Mabel Brown grew up in Bracebridge and taught for a few years at Bracebridge Public School before becoming the bride of Peter McGibbon. She was very involved in all activities of the ladies of the town and was a very staunch member of the United Church. Mrs. McGibbon was a very talented musician and an avid gardener. The grounds around her home were a show piece. During her husband’s long career as Member of Parliament, she was a gracious hostess in Ottawa as well as Bracebridge, entertaining Prime Ministers, senators, M.P.’s and other dignitaries.   

Mrs. McGibbon was very active in community work and served on the executive of the Women’s Patriotic League during the war years. One of The League’s objectives was to raise money for the purchase of a four-stretcher motor ambulance which was shipped overseas to be used in the war effort.

When word of Mrs. McGibbon’s death was received, the flag of the Town Hall was lowered to half-mast in her honour.