Historic Fires of Fredericton
Gibson Mansion FireJune 6, 1914
The Gibson Mansion was known as "the big house" by the locals of Marysville and was built in the 1860's.
Mrs Gibson worked closely with architect Matthew Stead (who also designed the local church) to achieve a Gothic Victorian look. A ballroom ran the entire length of the house and a circular staircase rose to the third floor. There was even a marble fountain on the grounds.
Mrs Gibson would entertain people in the magnificent parlors and spacious grounds and the evenings would sometimes end with fireworks. The Fredericton Brass band played at several events. Guests included Prime Minister John A. MacDonald and the Lieutenant Governor would bring special visitors by to visit.
On a Saturday afternoon, June 6, 1914, the house burned to the ground. Crowds gathered and watched as this landmark of the late Boss Gibson was destroyed.
Excerpts from a story in the Daily Gleaner by Ted Jones