He studied law with his brother Jacob, was admitted to the bar and practiced in Schoharie County.
[2] In addition to practicing law, Gebhard farmed[3] and was involved in several business ventures, including construction over the Schoharie Creek of the Middleburgh Bridge, which travelers paid tolls to use.
[4] Gebhard was elected as a Federalist to the 17th United States Congress, holding office from December 3, 1821, to March 3, 1823.
Gebhard amassed a large personal collection of minerals found in the caves, and provided samples to other academics and researchers.
[5] Gebhard's daughter Charlotte was the wife of Charles Goodyear, who also served in Congress.