Notable South Australians/William Gilbert, J.P., M.P.
William Gilbert, J.P., M.P.,
BORN in Bucks, England, in 1829, and educated at a boarding-school in the same county. Followed the business of his father (engineering and millering) for many years. During his residence in his native land Mr. Gilbert took an active part in political and religious matters, and since coming to this colony has interested himself in all movements having for their object the elevation of his fellowmen. He arrived here in 1869, and entered political life in 1881, when he was returned as member for Yatala at the head of the Poll; and also headed the poll at the election for the same district in 1884. Mr. Gilbert formerly held radical opinions, but is now a liberal conservative. Among many useful measures which he has been instrumental in carrying, the repeal of the Totalizator Bill, in 1883, is the most notable. Mr, Gilbert was a Councillor for Robe Ward, North Adelaide, during the mayoralty of Messrs. Scott and Buik; has been a member of the Destitute Board for the past five years, and a J. P. for upwards of four years. As a politician he is deservedly popular; and though his speeches are not characterised by great brilliancy, they are at least logical and forcible.