[1] The son of John McGibbon and Isabella Mackison, he was born in Petite-Cote and grew up on the family farm.
The following year, he established his own business, selling tea, coffee, wines and various spirits, and groceries.
McGibbon was an important member of Montreal's Scottish community, serving as president of the St. Andrew's Society and the Caledonian society.
[1] During the North-West Rebellion, he served as quartermaster general and chief transport officer for Major General Thomas Bland Strange.
In May 1886, he was named Indian Affairs inspector for the North-West Territories.