Hibbs Family Genealogy & History

Albert Roach Hibbs was an influential American mathematician and physicist associated with the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). Known as "The Voice of JPL," he excelled in communicating complex science to the public. Hibbs played a pivotal role as the systems designer for Explorer 1, America's first satellite, and led JPL's Space Science Division. He qualified as an astronaut in 1967 but did not travel to the Moon due to the Apollo program's end. Honors include the NASA Exceptional Service Medal and a Peabody award. He also co-authored the textbook Quantum Mechanics and Path Integrals with Richard Feynman.

Jesse John Hibbs was a prominent American film and television director and a notable football player. Born on January 11, 1906, in Normal, Illinois, Hibbs played college football for the USC Trojans, earning consensus All-American honors in 1927 and 1928 and captaining their first national championship team in 1928. Transitioning to Hollywood, Hibbs directed films such as "The All American" and several westerns, notably collaborating with Audie Murphy. He also left a significant mark on television, directing multiple episodes of hit series like "Perry Mason," "The F.B.I.," and "Gunsmoke." Hibbs passed away on February 4, 1985, in Ojai, California, and was posthumously inducted into the USC Athletic Hall of Fame in 1999.

Robert John Hibbs was a distinguished United States Army officer known for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. Born on April 21, 1943, he graduated from the University of Northern Iowa before joining the Army in August 1964. As a second lieutenant in Company B, 2nd Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, Hibbs demonstrated exceptional bravery during Operation Cocoa Beach, leading to his posthumous Medal of Honor award on February 24, 1967. His gallant efforts in combat, including a daring rescue under enemy fire, reflect the highest traditions of the U.S. Army.

Peter Kenney Hibbs (c. 1757 – 1847) was a distinguished English mariner and a notable member of the First Fleet to Australia in 1788. He played a crucial role in the exploration of Australia, commanding the Norfolk on groundbreaking voyages, including the first circumnavigation of Tasmania, establishing it as an island and proving the existence of the Bass Strait. Hibbs also sailed north to explore Moreton Bay and Hervey Bay, contributing significantly to Australia's maritime history. His association with notable figures like Matthew Flinders and George Bass further highlights his importance in early Australian exploration.

Peter was born to Mary Kenney and George Hibbs in Ramsgate, Kent, around 1757. Although initially thought not to be George Hibbs' biological son, DNA tests confirmed Peter's lineage with the Hibbs family. The family later relocated to Swanage, where Peter was baptized in 1762. This connection to both Ramsgate and Swanage underlines his English roots and familial heritage.