An Ulster History Circle blue plaque will honour James Gamble, a businessman born in Fermanagh who co-founded Procter & Gamble. The ceremony takes place at The Church Mouse, East Bridge Street, Enniskillen, on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at 2pm.

James Gamble was born in Graan townland near Enniskillen on April 3, 1803. He attended Portora Royal School. His family emigrated to the United States as a teenager. They settled in Cincinnati after stops in New Brunswick, Pittsburgh, and along the Ohio River.

In Cincinnati, Gamble apprenticed as a soapmaker. He partnered with William Procter, an English candlemaker, in October 1837 to form Procter & Gamble Manufactory. The partnership followed a suggestion from their father-in-law to combine businesses and buy raw materials in bulk. Gamble managed manufacturing, while Procter handled sales.

The company produced soap and candles. It supplied the Union Army during the American Civil War. Gamble's son developed Ivory Soap in 1879. Procter & Gamble now sells household, health, and personal care products worldwide with annual sales in tens of billions of dollars.

Tom Moody, Procter & Gamble Northern Europe senior vice president and managing director, stated the company takes pride in Gamble's Northern Ireland origins. He noted Gamble left Enniskillen with values and determination that still guide the company.

James Applegate, United States consul general in Belfast, said Gamble's achievements show the work ethic, resilience, and ambition of Irish emigrants who aided American industry along the Ohio River.

Enniskillen resident Selwyn Johnston nominated Gamble for the plaque. Ulster History Circle chairman Chris Spurr called Gamble's path from Lough Erne to Cincinnati a key contribution to global industry.