Born at Fort Sill, Eddy Gibbs was raised in Checotah by his mother. Only 10 when his father passed away, Gibbs felt a strong need to provide for the family. After graduation from high school he began installing fence in Tulsa, followed by apprenticeships in Kansas City, Missouri and Bakersfield, California to perfect the trade. He returned home to start his own company and, eight years later, began manufacturing fence. Ameristar became the largest ornamental fence manufacturer in the world. Upon sale of the company, with terms that the company remain in Oklahoma, Gibbs distributed a portion of the proceeds from the sale to employees as a token of appreciation.

Close to his Owasso home, Gibbs’ weekend retreat is northeast Oklahoma’s Shangri-La Resort. After falling into disrepair, he purchased the property and restored the resort’s reputation, dramatically increasing tourism to the area and employment opportunities for local residents.

A proponent for education, Gibbs’ generosity resulted in the largest single gift in the United States to a private K-12 school. With a strong respect and admiration for veterans and first responders, he built the Legacy of Liberty Memorial Park to honor the veterans of World War II and ensure younger generations know the history of our Nation’s heroes.

Recognized for his contributions in a multitude of arenas, Gibbs has been inducted into the Fence Industry Hall of Fame, received the Community Appreciation Award from the Owasso Chamber of Commerce, and the Excellence in Business Award for his positive economic impact on northeast Oklahoma, among countless others.

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