(1797-1870) First permanent settler in this area. Born in Tennessee, he was a steamboat captain. Came to Texas 1837. Built mills and was first navigator of Trinity River headwaters. After filing for land in this vicinity in 1856, he built cabin near this spring and dug trench around homestead to keep out buffalo herds. His daughter Hettie was first white child known to have been born in the county (1860). Indian raids drove family away repeatedly. Twice married, Gilbert had 19 children. Peach trees he planted here were for years a landmark used by incoming pioneers. (1970)