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19 May 2006 - Blue Plaque Unveiling - Willaim Gibson

It was a fine May afternoon for the unveiling of a blue plaque to one of County Down's illustrious sons at his former home, now owned by Victor and Norma Shields who graciously hosted the event. The Ulster History Circle was represented by Jimmy Hawthorne, Sean Nolan, Victor Price, Jim Crawford and Pat Devlin. Councillor Jim McIlroy, Chairman of Banbridge District Council attended in his official capacity and when the time came performed the cermony. Also present were representatives of the Dromore Historical Society; John Davis, Queen's University; Walter Smyth, The Gibson Trust; Brian King of RUAS and his wife, Rev. Sam Peden and Raymond Kelly whose Count Down website profiled many local worthies including William Gibson and who had come over from Scotland to see him honoured. The Plaque was sponsored by Banbridge District Council.

The official proceeding were opened by Tom Shields. Jimmy Hawthorne gave a brief account of the Ulster History Circle's work and mentioned that there were two other plaques in the area, to Helen Waddell and John B. Yeats. He thanked the Banbridge Council for their sponsorship and Victor and Norma Shields for their hospitality. Sean Nolan spoke briefy about William Gibson and his achievements and Jim McIlroy unveiled the plaque.

After the splendid repast provided by Victor and Norma the company dispersed well satisfied with a impressive event, well attended, humourous and convivial.

The photos give a flavour of the event.


Jimmy Hawthorne addressing the group - PHOTO Pat DevlinSean Nolan talking about William Gibson - PHOTO Pat Devlin
Jim McIlroy, Chairman of Banbridge District Council, addresses the company - PHOTO Pat DevlinThe plaque unveiled by Jim McIlroy  - PHOTO Pat Devlin
Group - PHOTO Pat Devlin
Victor Shields and group - PHOTO Pat DevlinVictor and Norma Shields - who hosted the event - PHOTO Pat Devlin


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