Ziba Elijah Gibson (c. 1700-1750)

Overview

This report summarizes genealogical research into the life of Ziba Elijah Gibson, an early 18th-century figure. The information is compiled from various genealogical databases, family trees, and historical publications, which largely corroborate a consistent family lore. This interactive application allows you to explore his documented life, his family, and the legend of his origins.

Born c. 1700-1710 Scotland
Died c. 1740-1760 Colony of Virginia
Spouse Mary Bennett Married c. 1730
Immigration Early 1700s Scotland to Virginia

Immediate Family

Ziba and Mary Gibson are the progenitors of a significant family line in the American Southeast. Below is a simple diagram of their immediate family as documented in genealogical records. After Ziba's death in Virginia, his widow Mary moved with their children to North Carolina.

  • Ziba Elijah Gibson (c. 1700-1750) + Mary Bennett
    • Thomas Gibson Served in Revolutionary War
    • Nelson Gibson Served in Revolutionary War
    • Mary Gibson Married "Wildcat" Billy Smith

The Scottish Legend

Your query about Ziba changing his name and fleeing Scotland is a prominent part of his story, repeated across many family histories. This legend appears to be well-corroborated by oral tradition, though definitive primary sources from the period are scarce. Explore the two main parts of the legend below.

Original Surname

Family lore is consistent that "Gibson" was an assumed name. The original name is most frequently cited as being from a major Scottish clan. The "Elijah" in your query is also noted in some records, sometimes associated with the original name.

McGregor: The most common name mentioned in the legend. One story claims Ziba was a member of the "prominent, wealthy and influential MACGREGOR clan."
McDougal or MacKenzie: These names are also mentioned in some family histories as the possible original surname. One record explicitly lists his name as "Ziba Elijah Gibson (Mackenzie)".

Legacy in America

Ziba's life marks the beginning of a well-documented American family line. While he died in Virginia, his family's subsequent migration to North Carolina established roots that spread along the Pee Dee River Valley in North and South Carolina.

Migration Path

1

Scotland (Birth)

Ziba born c. 1700. Emigrates in the early 18th century.

2

Virginia (Life & Death)

Lives, marries Mary Bennett, and dies c. 1740-1760.

3

North Carolina (Descendants)

Widow Mary and children move c. 1750 to Anson/Richmond Co.

Genealogical Record Locations

Distribution of genealogical records referencing Ziba's life stages.