NEWSLETTER Summer 2017 Editor – Douglas Barr-Hamilton

AGM This year, our AGM was held on 27th March and followed a Society visit to the Cutty Sark in Greenwich. Several of us met at the clipper ship at eleven on a cool, sunny morning and wandered its decks until around noon, finding it surprisingly uncrowded giving plenty of time to discuss history and life on board with the helpful and friendly staff. We then joined other members in The Spanish Galleon in Greenwich Church Street for lunch and started the AGM at two o'clock.

Present were our President Bryan Corrin and his wife Sheila, Secretary Douglas Barr- Hamilton and his wife Margarita, Treasurer Sam Weller and his wife Mary, committee members Maron Honeyborne and Alastair Kneale and members Peter and Sally Miller.

Reports summarised the year's activities and confirmed that finances are sound.

The usual business was conducted, Sally Miller was elected to the committee to replace Colin Gill who has decided to stand down after a long and valuable contribution to the running of the Society, and an important rule change enacted to deal with the Society's assets in the event of it winding up. The draft minutes are available for members' study on the Society's web site. DBH

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Photographs: Sam Weller Annual Lunch Members began arriving at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Southampton Row, the traditional venue for our annual lunch well before the appointed hour of one o'clock and the thirty-two able to come had a good time catching up with gossip and exchanging news of the Island and folk they know there. The lounge gradually filled and some of the groups are pictured opposite thanks to Sam Weller. The group included Paul Allott, Douglas and Margarita Barr-Hamilton, Voirrey and Robin Carr, Stewart Christian, Bryan and Sheila Corrin, Meryl Cowley, Edna and Colin Flint, Rose Fowler, Sheila and Colin Gill, Maron Honeyborne, Alastair Kneale, Sally and Peter Miller, Ethel Qualtrough, John Qualtrough, Maisie Sell, Alan and Pam Townsend, Jim and Sue Wood, Peter Nash, Melodie and Harry Waddingham, Sam and Mary Weller, Elizabeth and Nicholas Watson.

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We enjoyed an excellent meal starting with leek and potato soup with croutons and cream, following it with a main course of roast loin of pork with a garnish of lardons, onions, mushrooms and red wine sauce then tucking into a wonderful caramel apple crumble. Coffee and mints followed, then the toasts.

After the loyal toast, past President Alastair Kneale toasted the Land of our Birth recalling the Snaefell Mine disaster (see his article in this newsletter) as well as good times on the Island. President Bryan Corrin toasted our guests and our guest of honour, Alan Townsend MBE FRCOG, replied with fascinating account of his long career most of which he spent as consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Nobles's Hospital up to his retirement in 1995 and giving an insight into the way the provision of health care has evolved both on the Island and in the United Kingdom.

The usual raffle was drawn, an essential part of our proceedings as members and guests' generosity ensures the Society's finances continue sound and the top prize, generously donated by the Steam Packet company: the free carrying of a car and two passengers to and from Douglas, was won by Rose Fowler. Other prizes included a first edition Hall-Caine novel and delicious home-made truffles. Everyone seemed to get something.

After the singing of Ellan Vannin everyone could move more freely and most folk were slow to drift away preferring to chat in the dining room and in the hotel lounge. Then a walk to tube and bus in a late return to city life. DBH

OBITUARIES Alan Corlett I have no information about Alan and his time with the Society and was advised that he died during 2016 by email from his daughter, Jo Scott. I have been advised though that his wife was a sister of Allan Clague, another LMS member, whose death at the end of 2016 we reported in our last newsletter. We are therefore keen to express our condolences to both families at their further loss in such quick succession. Should any member be able to provide me with more detail we would wish to publish a full tribute to Alan.

Margaret Brady

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We are extremely sorry to have to let you know that Margaret died on 3rd March after suffering severe kidney failure in December. She had been an active member of the Society since joining it, serving on the committee for many years and faithfully playing the organ at the harvest thanksgiving service of our mhelliah right up to the one in 2016.

Margaret Kelly was born a year before the War broke out, a younger sister to Isobel who still lives on the Island, and she grew up in Onchan, her father being one of the well-known wood-carving family, Kellys of Kirk Michael. She spent part of her primary education in Scotland and retained a slight Scottish burr in her voice all her life. Secondary education was at the Buchan School where her contemporaries as pupils included Society members Mavis Bell, Pam Fiddik and Maron Honeyborne. A gifted linguist, she had thought of studying French and German at university but, after practicing for the Karl Bohm scholarship at the Guild (Manx Music Festival) when in the Sixth Form, went to the Royal Academy of Music.

On the face of it, music became Margaret's life. However, at her very well-attended funeral, organised by her friend Maureen Lomas whom many members will have met, at which the Society was represented by Douglas and Margarita Barr-Hamilton, Pam and Mike Fiddik and Sally and Peter Miller, it was clear that Jesus Christ was her life although her contribution to the work of her church was through its music. The service, planned by Margaret herself, was a modern one reflecting her faith through today's songs and the tributes of friends and family and we were able to meet them with church members at a lovely meal afterwards. Margaret will be missed. We extend our condolences to her daughter Fiona and son Paul.

Fiona's eulogy spoke emotionally about her mother, "Her age is a closely guarded secret," she said, "Unfortunately for her it is now all over the order of service. She and her sister Isobel were also coy about who was the elder. They managed to keep this a secret from mum’s in-laws for a long time but in case any of you are still unsure, Margaret was younger than Isobel by two years. Isobel still lives in the Isle of Man near to where they were born in Kirk Michael." The Kelly sisters were sent to boarding school in Scotland at quite a young age but were not very happy. Margaret once described scraping frost from inside the windows. It did give her the first opportunity to play the piano though. Fortunately, she got a scholarship to The Buchan senior school and the sisters returned to the island. She was happy there; every old school picture shows her with her trademark grin - in fact it was hard to find any pictures of her without that big smile!

She finished school with French, German and Music A-Levels and was destined to study languages at university until a last-minute decision made her follow her heart and apply to study Music at the Royal Academy of Music. She loved being a music scholar. Getting through rush-hour in London carrying a cello presented its challenges though. She was highly embarrassed about the day she was squashed onto the tube

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and put her cello down, landing the large spike at the bottom on someone’s toes. That same cello remains with the family to this day. She loved playing music by Vaughn Williams who was both a composer and her tutor.

Margaret graduated in 1961 and pursued a job in teaching. She eventually became head of music at Southport Girls school. She settled in the town and one Christmas put together an adult choir to sing carols locally. She hit it off with one of the members of this choir. His name was George Brady and they were married in 1967. They settled into married life in Southport. Sadly, they were told it was unlikely they could have children. You can imagine their surprise when Fiona turned up in 1976, shortly followed by Paul in 1978. Fiona remembers their house being open and there being a lot of laughter, confirmed by a number of old friends who have got back in touch recently.

The family moved to Camberley in 1984 and quickly put down roots, firstly in the church, now known as The Beacon Centre, where the reception was held providing a three-course meal in true Margaret style and the family were delighted that friends made back then have journeyed to be present.

If Margaret was soft on the outside, she was very tough on the inside. She focused and was grateful for what they had and what they could do rather than feel sorry about what they couldn’t have. As well as family life, she worked as a music teacher at Hammond Middle School and Lightwater First School. Though she retired officially in 1998, she became even busier post-retirement with music pupils, Len Tyler school of music, The London Manx Society, German classes, supporting various charities, church commitments, Singspiration and probably many more.

Finally, no account would be complete a mention of her faith in God. Faith is tested in tough times and they didn’t get much tougher than recently. First, in intensive care, with tubes and catheters and dialysis machines, then lastly in Sue Ryder, living in the valley of the shadow of death. She remained peaceful throughout and was looking forward to seeing in full what we can only see dimly now.

In memory of Margaret Brady

Summer Serenade Concert

by

Basingstoke Symphony Orchestra

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with which Margaret played

at

Anvil Arts Centre Churchill Way, Basingstoke RG21 7QR

(adjacent to Basingstoke train station)

on

Saturday 24th June, 2017

starting at 7.45 p.m.

including

music by Vaughan-Williams (Margaret's tutor at the Royal College of Music)

book at box office

01256 844 244

Tynwald Cooish The Society has decided to hold its mid-summer cooish on Tynwald Day itself again this year and Sally and Peter Miller have kindly and generously offered to throw open their house and garden and invite LMS members to celebrate with them. Their address is 225 Chesterton Road, Cambridge CB4 1AN and we aim to assemble from about one o'clock. Do note that parking is difficult. Rail travel and taxi is recommended.

New Bishop for Sodor and Man After a lengthy interval, the Island is to have a new bishop. He will be Ven. Peter Eagle, since 1992 Archdeacon for Royal Army Chaplains' Department and honorary chaplain to the Queen since 2013. The Church Times described him as an Anglo-

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Catholic priest, a curate in St Martin's Ruislip from 1989 to 1992 after education that included King's College London and St Stephen's House Oxford. On his appointment he spoke of a need for humility: to speak for the diocese, not to it. "There will be challenges, clearly, in moving from one form of ministry to another but I'm confident of being able to adapt to island life and ministry and become integrated. That's what I've done in all my military postings," he added. DBH Source: Church Times

Snaefell Mining Disaster 1897 Snaefell (Manx: Sniaull) is the highest mountain on the Isle of Man (Mannin), at 2,037 feet (621 m) above sea level. To the east the magnificent Laxey Valley sweeps down towards the coastal village of Laxey (Manx: Laksaa) where it meets the Irish Sea. Walking upwards along the track from Laxey, past the tiny settlement of Agneash, a gradual climb takes you alongside the river that flows along the floor of the valley. On a fine day the views are spectacular. As you approach Snaefell you eventually reach the remains of the old Snaefell Mine that lie in the shadow of the mountain. Just above the site nestling behind a group of pine trees there is a beautiful little waterfall. A peaceful and tranquil place to sit and take in the scenery. Nevertheless, there is an air of sadness here, often commented upon even by those without a knowledge of the events that took place at the Snaefell Mine on 10th of May 1897. As if a memory of the tragedy that happened here over a century ago is held within the clasp of the surrounding hills. Laxey was the centre of an important lead and zinc-mining industry which was once one of the most important to be worked in the British Isles and, at the time, the world. lead; zinc, copper and iron had been exploited on the Isle of Man from prehistoric times. Mining remained commercially viable until the early 20th century. Mining, which started at the Snaefell Mine in 1856, was on a much smaller scale than the two biggest Mines on the Island at Laxey and Foxdale. It continued until the mine was finally abandoned in 1909. Disaster struck on the 10th of May 1897 due to an underground fire resulting in the suffocation of nineteen miners and a twentieth, having been rescued dying some days later. The depth of the mine was 171 fathoms (1026 feet). On that sad Monday morning, shortly after 6 a.m., thirty five men descended into the shaft to begin their shift. It was not long before several returned to the surface exhausted and complaining that the stench of gas filled the mine. This set in motion a desperate rescue attempt with Captain Kewley sending for help from Laxey. He then started a descent into the mine. On the way he met several exhausted, breathless miners struggling to climb up the ladder. As he went further down he discovered others, still alive but unconscious. The rescue attempt continued under hazardous conditions until five in the afternoon when the last survivor, James Kneale, was found, Over the coming hours deeper descents into the mine were made as far as the 100 fathom level with the discovery of bodies. From that point rescue attempts ceased and the awful task of recovery commenced again the next day. Over the next week more bodies were brought to the surface, but due to poisonous gas at

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the 130 fathom level work had to stop. It was not until the 17th of June 1897 when last body, that of Robert Kelly, was recovered. At the inquest it was explained that a practice of the miners at the time was to place a nearly burned out candle up against the side of his working place whether it be timbered or not and to light a new candle from it. It was determined that timbers igniting from a candle led to the disaster. It seems that after miners had finished their shift on Saturday 8 May, a candle had been left burning. This then set light to a nearby pit prop leading to a fire in the shaft. Sunday 9 May and the mine was closed, but the fire continued burning as long as oxygen was present. This resulting in carbon monoxide forming which then filled the lower parts of the shaft. A statue, depicting a Laxey miner, was unveiled in the village in May 2015 to honour those who worked in the village mines. Carved by Ongky Wijanafrom in Carlow Blue limestone sourced from Ireland, it sits on a granite plinth with four Welsh slate panels, They depict the arduous conditions the miners endured. The statue stands in an enclosure of Manx stone, the work of local stone masons Tony Bridson and Howard Kneale. Life was hard for the Manx miners with many having to walk many miles to get to their place of work and then working long hours. In all weathers they would have no choice but to get to the mines. Benefits and health provision were almost non- existent. Self-help was the order of the day with working people combining to form cooperative provision and friendly societies. Not many of the miners would have had the time to sit by the small mountain stream waterfall above the mine. Taking in the beauty and admiring the view down the Laxey Valley toward the Irish Sea. But if you go to this place you will pass the covered mine-shaft where those men met their end on that morning of May 10th 1897. You will see the small plaque that records their names. When you sit by the waterfall think of them and think of the hardships that they had to endure. Those that died: Joseph Moughtin 28, Louis Kinrade 38, William Christian 26, Walter Christian 21 (his brother), William Kewin 24, John Kewin 29 (his brother), William Senogles 46, Robert Lewney 24, Edward Kinrade 27, John Oliver 57, John James Oliver 22 (his son), Robert Cannell 41, John Kewley 32, Edward Kewley 22, Robert Kelly 21, Frank Christian 39, Sandy Callan 24, William Callow 29, John Fayle 40, James Henry Corkill 44 (rescued alive but died 26th May) Alastair Kneale

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Snaefell Mine Rescue Team

Snaefell Mine around 1870

Falling Island Population The answer is 83,314 if, for you like me, the most frequently asked question is, "What's the population of the Isle of Man?" Results from the latest census, published in the first week of March, reveal that the resident population fell by 1.4 per cent to this figure in 2016 from 84,497 in 2011. Worrying for the government is that the core working-age population fell by just over 2,000 with the biggest drop among the 20 to 29-year-olds who are leaving for university or work and not coming back. Coupled with a falling birth rate and an ageing population, the figures will concern Tynwald which needs the tax revenue to pay for public services and pensions. DBH Source: IOMtoday

Swift Action Needed to Encourage Local Bird Population 9

Our contemporary lifestyle may have brought additional benefits to Island life, but for one annual summer visitor from Africa it has made a significant impact on their much needed habitat.

The Manx Ornithological Society, in conjunction with Manx BirdLife, have now joined forces under the banner of Swift Action to assess the breeding population of the swift, and monitor current numbers after a visitor from Tasmania noted a decline in the local population in comparison to a previous visit and suggested setting up a project to help them.

Undistinguished by their somewhat plain, brown colouring, they are more likely to be remembered for their dexterity and distinctive sound as they soar upwards and onwards - their long, scythe-like wings and short, forked tail strikingly silhouetted against an endless sky. Spending most of the time airborne, where they happily eat, mate and sleep on the wing, they head to the Isle of Man to breed, typically arriving during the month of May and departing in August.

Unfortunately a decline in suitable nesting sites has been identified as being partially responsible for a notable drop in the number of swifts visiting our shores to breed. As a rule they favour elevated holes in wall crevices, eaves of houses, spires and church towers, but many sites have been lost due to our enthusiasm for building renovation.

But this is where you can help raise awareness and appreciation of this fabulous bird, in an effort to encourage more nesting opportunities on the Isle of Man.

Swifts are communal in nature, and project organisers anticipate that the greatest success can be achieved by encouraging new nesting sites in the vicinity of other established nests; although it is possible to gain their confidence on a new site using recordings of their screeching calls.

And here's what you can do to reinforce the bird's presence on the Isle of Man. If you suspect there might be a current nesting site you can easily record your sightings on the Manx BirdLife website, or by telephoning Janet Thompson on 835524, noting its approximate location and number of birds sighted in recent years.

Alternatively project organisers would welcome anyone (including children and young people) who would be interested in either helping to monitor specific sites, or know of a suitable location for new nesting boxes, to contact them for further information: www manxbirdlife im Valerie Caine © May 2017 (Courtesy of Manx Tails)

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Photos courtesy of Pete Hadfield

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Yn Chruinnaght presents Celtfest Isle of Man Programme 2017

Monday 10 July - Friday 14 July, Lunchtime sessions from local and visiting musicians at Noa Bakehouse in Douglas, 1pm, free

Tuesday 11 July - Centenary Centre, Peel, 8pm Festival opens with lecture on the Celts by anatomist, anthropologist and broadcaster, Professor Alice Roberts, £15.00

Wednesday 12 July - Centenary Centre, Peel, 8pm Hamish Napier’s The River: with Hamish Napier, Ross Ainslie, Sarah Hayes, James Duncan Mackenzie, James Lindsay, Martin O’Neill, Calum MacCrimmon, Dave Milligan, Tom Gibbs. £12.50

Thursday 13 July - Centenary Centre, Peel, 8pm Talisk: with Mohsen Amini (concertina), Hayley Keenan (fiddle) and Craig Irving (guitar). £12.50 This event is supported by Thornton Financial Services.

Friday 14 July - Centenary Centre, Peel, 8pm Rioghnach Connolly Band. £12.50

Saturday 15 July, Cathedral Isle of Man, 12-5pm The Gathering - Artisan Craft Fair and family day based in and around the Cathedral. Sponsored by Conister Bank. Artists include: Rachel Hair, Bree, Manx youth group, Mooinjer Veggey. Manx Gaelic and music workshops and yarn-spinner and puppeteer Fi Angwin, with traditional stories of Celtic lands to the festival. Free.

Saturday 15 July ~ Centenary Centre, Peel, 8pm Connla, featuring Ciara McCafferty (vocals), Ciaran Carlin (whistles), Paul Starrett (guitar) and siblings Emer and Conor Mallon on harp and uilleann pipes. £15.00

Saturday 15 July - The Creek, Peel, 10pm Foot-stompin’ party bands to close Celtfest IOM 2017. Free

PLUS After-show trad sessions Tues – Fri at The Whitehouse, Peel

More info & ticket sales from: www celtfest im. Kindly sponsored by Culture Vannin, Isle of Man Arts Council and the Malcolm Scott Dickinson Charitable Trust.

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Changing gardens in Cregneash Much loved horticulturist Cilla Platt has recently left her role as head gardener at Cregneash after nearly two decades. Her dedication to heritage vegetables and replanting traditional Manx varieties has made a lasting legacy to the gardens of the much loved village.

But it wasn't always as well tended. "When I began working Cummel Beg back in 1998, it was a bit of a jungle but with the help of volunteers Gill Wheeler, Belinda Crebbins and Jan Lowe, one by one they reclaimed, replanted and restored each garden to its former glory".

Cilla continued, " Not all of our projects were entirely successful. We dedicated ourselves to restoring hedgerows around the village only for the oldest indigenous resident, Stanley Karran to explain that historically dry stone walls predominated, so we had to cut them all back down".

Although little historical information about indigenous planting existed, the resident of Port St Mary left no stone unturned in her quest to discover fruit, flowers and herbs that would likely have grown in Cregneash over the centuries, all of which she has documented for future generations.

More recently, willow varieties from cuttings of species found in the Abbey in Ballasalla have been established in order to show visitors and volunteers traditional weaving methods. Cilla plans to spend her retirement keeping as busy as possible. "I'm planting a couple of acres of trees on the Sloc and my role as education officer for the National Beekeeping Federation is something I'm extremely passionate about."

Her replacement Karen Griffiths, explained, "Filling Cilla's boots is going to be very difficult. We all owe her a huge debt of gratitude. she's an amazing and inspirational person whose dedication to the gardens of Cregneash has preserved a unique record for Manx horticulture".

Karen went on to explain that she's very excited about new plans to supply the chefs in Cregeash and the Sound Café with fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs grown in the garden. Karen reiterated that the lifeblood of the gardens is the volunteers and anyone wishing to get involved should contact her on 01624 412488 or the site manager, Helen on 496590. Cregneash opened for the summer season on 1st April.

For further information please contact Helen Ashcroft, Heritage Site Manager. Tel: 07624 496590 Lynsey Clague Communications Manager, Manx National Heritage

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Kathleen Joughin Back in the summer of 2012 after Maureen Wigley, an honorary British Legion representative, told us how she came across the grave of New Zealand nurse Kathleen Joughin who had died in Egypt during WW2 and wondered if there was a Manx connection. The article has now reached Rachel O'Reilly (née Joughin) who tells us that Kathleen was her aunt and she has very kindly sent us a lot of information from a copy of Kathleen’s eldest sister Hazel’s memoirs:

Kathleen was born in 1919 in Christchurch, New Zealand to William Cleave & Rose (née McCree) Joughin, the second youngest of eight children – Hazel Rose, Mona Annie, Willam, Harold Richard, Florence Margaret, Trevor Cyril (Rachel's grandfather born 1914), Kathleen and Albert Cleave. There was almost a twenty year age gap between Hazel and Albert so as the two youngest of the family, Kathleen and Albert were very close. The family was raised in Christchurch (New Zealand) next door to their grandparents (William’s parents). Richard Cleave Joughin (Kathleen’s grandfather) emigrated to New Zealand in 1880 from the Isle of Man. He came from a large island family, his parents being farmers whose estate was named Ballakew. Hazel remembers a photo of the family homestead not far from Douglas hung on the wall of Richard’s dining room. Richard, a fully apprenticed house-painter and decorator, came to New Zealand with his brother James who was a draper by trade. The night before they left for New Zealand they stayed with “Uncle Will”, a coal merchant based in Douglas. According to Hazel, apparently William during the war years for 1914-1916 became the Mayor of Douglas. (I note that according to official records the years were 1910 to 1912 so Hazel is a little off here). Kathleen’s father, William Cleave played the cornet and joined the Woolston Band. When a man named Ted Derry decided to form a band he persuaded your Cleave to join him. That was the start of his successful association with Derry’s Band which lasted his lifetime. My father, no doubt under his grandfather’s influence learned to play the euphonium as a youngster and this has been a life-long passion. Prior to the 1960s the New Zealand Army did not have an official army band. It was decided that Derry’s Band would take up this role and some of the younger players joined up, including my father. Dad served two tours in Malaya in the late 60s in the Engineers and I have copies of recordings the band made in Singapore. Kath, as she was always called, was a healthy baby of over 8lb with blonde hair and blue eyes. Hazel’s memoir notes that during her first 2-3 years of life Kath was subject to fits of some kind. I clearly remember my granddad telling me of the time he saw her have a fit beside the fire place in the living room. He said the children were shooed out of the room quickly and it wasn’t something that was ever talked although both Hazel and granddad always suspected these fits (probably epilepsy) contributed to her death in Egypt.

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Kathleen nursed in a diphtheria ward when she caught the “malady” and did not report it early enough. A New Zealand doctor as well as a Harley Street specialist were called to care for her when she collapsed. One dose of serum did not have any effect and they had to give her two doses which proved fatal to the heart. Kathleen’s mother never really got over her death. It was the three boys who were overseas in the service whom the family worried about, never imagining it would be their sister who would sacrifice her life. She was a very radiant person with a great sense of humour, very loyal and loving. Jack West, her fiancée was a strict Roman- Catholic. Fortunately there was no prejudice in Kathleen’s Anglican family as Cleave had bought the children up to respect “the other fellow’s opinion – whether it be religion or politics”. Hazel’s memoirs also mention that their mother Rose received an invitation from the Queen (the Queen Mother) a couple of years before she died inviting her to Westminster Abbey to the dedication of a Chapel of Memorial in part of the Abbey in which would be kept all the names of the nurses who had given their lives during the War. Unfortunately Rose was never able to make that trip. I hope this helps to give you some insight behind the headstone so very far away from Kathleen’s beloved family. I don’t remember meeting her sisters but do recall her brothers and my father speaking very fondly of her. She was indeed a courageous young lady. Rachel O’Reilly

Island at the Cinema I'm grateful to member David Kirkby for drawing to my attention 7th May's Observer review of the film, "Mindhorn" which Mark Kermode describes as a pathos-tinged comedy that could well be subtitled, "Alpha Papa goes to the Isle of Man." Telling the story of a washed up actor once famous as a TV detective lured to the Island by a suspected s serial killer's demand to the police that he will talk to nobody else, it will certainly attract LMS members to watch. Not for the story, perhaps, though that's not unappealing, but for views of our Island which Mark Kermode describes as having a rare and welcome chance to play itself. Sea Terminal and Laxey Wheel are among many Manx scenes we'll want to see. It was released in early May and member David Kirkby who kindly sent me the review so enabling the society to circulate members with known email addresses said, "My wife and I went to see the film at the weekend. There were indeed many film shots of island locations but I fear that they did not outweigh the poor story line of the film which was, I thought, quite dire although the critics and also my wife did praise it. Curious also was that the film was part funded by the IoM government". Something to chat about at the Tynwald cooish and our mhelliah in the autumn. DBH

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'This is Summer' Exhibition at House of Manannan Memories of summer on the Isle of Man in the 1950s, 60s and 70s are captured in a new exhibition that opened at the House of Manannan on Saturday 6th May. 'This is Summer' features highlights from thousands of images from the Manx Press pictures archive held in the Manx National Heritage collection. the exhibition captures many popular occasions and locations on the Island from the 1950s to the 1970s; and era of long summer days, packed beaches, a vibrant atmosphere and celebreties galore, along with protests, interesting advertisements and a spam hamper! Manx Press Pictures and Peters Photography Ltd were owned and run by William George (Bill) Peters and based at Prospect Hill, Douglas. Owner, Bill joined the Isle of Man Examiner newspaper photographic department as an apprentice photographer in March 1938 and was contracted to supply press pictures for both the Examiner and the Isle of Man Times. Bill and his staff photographed thousands of events and captured key moments in the Island's recent past, anything from Tynwald Day, sporting events, visiting celebreties, news, to social occasions and weddings. The office closed in 1980 when Prospect Hill was redeveloped for offices and the company dissolved on 8th October 1981. Bill Peters retired in 1986 and died two years later. Katie King, curator of 'This is Summer' said: "I have loved curating this exhibition to get the chance to dig a bit deeper to find out the stories behind the Manx Press Pictures photographs. The holiday heyday is the era in Manx history which I wish I could be transported back to – the gorgeous dresses and the sense of fun! To see all aspects of life through the lens gives you a great sense of the times and no doubt will dig up memories for many people". The exhibition was launched at a special event the preceding evening, offering the opportunity to meet the press. Special guests included Charles Guard, Valerie Cottle and Bill Dale to reminisce about the heady days of Manx journalism. It runs until 10th September. The full collection of digitised images can be viewed at www imuseum im/thisissummer/ Lynsey Clague Communications Manager, Manx National Heritage, Eiraght Ashoonagh Vannin

New Member Vic Quayle Pressure on space in our last newsletter which, you may have noticed, contained four extra pages thanks to our printers who produced it at no extra charge, meant we omitted one item of news and greeting. The Society welcome to its ranks at the end of February, Guildford's Vic Quayle. He and his wife were unable to attend our lunch but sent their apologies and look forward to meeting us in the near future; as we do to meeting them. DBH

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Queen's Pier progress We raised the subject of Ramsey's pier in our newsletter a year ago and it looks as though it will be the next big restoration project and fund raising appeal on the Island. So far cash has been raised for surveys and legal work and I understand that a start is about to be announced. The lease the Queen's Pier Restoration Trust needs to access the construction has been agreed in principle and is being studied by lawyers prior to signing. The trustees have prepared an attractive flier for any reader who is interested, especially if thinking of making a donation. I can send one electronically to all who ask. Something close to £2 million will be required but there is some £30,000 already in the kitty, services have now been connected to the pier and things are ready to start beginning with the old entrance converted into a volunteer centre/office. There are some voices against the expenditure on the Island, of course, but I'm told the lieutenant governor is in favour and much interest was stimulated earlier this month by a talk by Chris Foote Wood, brother of the late Victoria Wood, on the history of the piers of Great Britain. Somebody present told me he was great and gave the Ramsey pier a really good critique. The hall had been packed so hopefully everyone in the audience is now a supporter. A really lovely atmosphere of excitement and interest is building up. Practical help could be as valuable as cash so members resident on the Island or fancying a working holiday in Ramsey will be interested in the needs listed in the flier: cleaning down, painting, installing electricity, plumbing, carpentry, engineering work on steel beams, accountancy, computing and secretarial help, fundraising and publicity. Should this be you, do contact Andreas resident Tom Durrant on 880229 More information is available and updates will be posted on www ramseypier co uk DBH

Queen's Pier c 1890, photo courtesy of Manx National Heritage

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Manx Words - A New Dictionary If you're one of the growing number of Manx language speakers, then you'll be interested in the recent publication of a new pocket dictionary under the expressive title Manx Words. Produced jointly by Manx speakers James Harrison and Adrian Cain (Manx Language Development Officer for Culture Vannin), this recent addition to the rapidly growing material for learners and speakers was heavily influenced by the work and assistance of Steve Morris. Based at Swansea University, he produced a similar publication for learners of the Welsh language. Adrian Cain, the Manx Language Development Officer for Culture Vannin commented, "This resource will be of real use to anyone who intends to learn the language. It isn’t meant to be a comprehensive introduction to Manx, rather it covers the key vocabulary that students are likely to encounter when they start to pick up the language." Manx Words is particularly useful to students in their first two years of study, with each word accompanied by examples used in every day speech, together with useful word lists and explanations of irregular verbs and common prepositions. The dictionary is now available from many Island bookshops priced at £10. Valerie Caine © February 2017 (Courtesy of Manx Tails)

The Hammer of Thor Despite its title, this book has little to do with Norse mythology, but one of its meanings, 'fearful destruction', is a perfect epitaph of the life-changing consequences of what was termed the Great War. The effect of war is, by its very nature, manifold, but in her new book Patricia Skillicorn reveals the true picture of how the Island fared during World War I and what became of it at the cessation of conflict; including some valuable first-hand accounts. Our unique position juggled the provision of internment alongside providing a higher proportion of men for military service than anywhere else in the British Isles, self-sufficiency became a priority, the visiting industry, along with its valuable income, vanished virtually overnight and the aspiration of Home Rule fell by the wayside. This is a compelling story which also provides important detail about the Island prior to World War I, setting the scene for what arrived in its wake as the Lieutenant Governor, Lord Raglan, members of the House of Keys and a number of important social reformers, such as Samuel Norris, labour radicals and unionists, faced the challenges of a declining local population and inevitable economic problems; but not always singing from the same hymn sheet. Well researched and informative, The Hammer of Thor provides a sometimes brutal account of how islanders survived away from the battlefield, (particularly women) deficient of a number of social monetary benefits available in England. But in amongst the sacrifice, depravation and despair of the working class, Patricia also presents the reader with details of how resourceful Manx people were at this time, developing strategies, coping mechanisms and embracing the need for enterprise. The Hammer of Thor can also describe a protection of mankind, but other sources, appropriately, reveal it to be an indicator of a future path. 18

Valerie Caine © January 2017 (Courtesy of Manx Tails) Island Quiz (Open to non-members through the web site)

1. Is Kermode Street in (a) Australia, (b) Canada, (c) South Africa, (d) United States? 2. Peel Sailors' Shelter first opened in (a) 1871, (b) 1873, (c) 1875, (d) 1877? 3. The giant deer in the Manx Museum dates from approximately (a) 14,500 BC, (b) 12,500 BC, (c) 10,500 BC, (d) 8,500 BC? 4. What caused the Laxey Mine to close for over two years from 1919 (a) flooding, (b) gas, (c) rock fall, (d) workers' strike ? 5. At the age of 17, was Hall Caine a teacher in (a) Braaid, (b) Crosby, (c) Maughold, (d) Sulby?

Answers to March's Quiz 1. A dock gate (b) was recently discovered at the Manx Nautical Museum. 2. Castle Mona was originally built for (a) the 4th Dike of Atholl. 3. Hollandtide is celebrated on (c) 31st October. 4. The height of South Barrule is (c) 483m. 5. "Braddan Vicarage" (a) starts, "I wonder if in that far isle . . ."

The first all-correct answer was received from Sam Weller who received £20 in Manx notes.

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Closing date for prize of £20 in fuel on hiring a car from Mylchreest Motors, Ronaldsway Airport for first all correct set of answers received by 6th July 2017. The last day of May The glinting of the sunshine flirting through the trees, The leaves waving slightly with each gentle breeze, The scent of the garden on this golden day A fitting finale to the month of May, The song of the birds for our music With the tinkling sound of the stream While dining alfresco, at peace with the world: The start of a summer dream. Maisie Sell

Acknowledgements The Editor thanks Valerie Caine, Lynsey Clague, Maron Honeyborne, Waverley Jenkins, David Kirkby, Alastair Kneale, Maureen Lomas, Pauline Lyle-Smith, Rachel O'Reilly, Maisie Sell, Fiona Strange (née Brady), Sam Weller for their kind contribution and also Isle of Man Newspapers, Culture Vannin, Yn Cruinnaght and Manx National Heritage. News about you and articles (of around 450 words) about Island life are welcome and of interest to all. If in doubt, please contact me. Contributions can be sent at any time for inclusion in the next newsletter, if possible by email (barrhamilton@btinternet com) or to 132 Bush Hill, N21 2BS. Copyright is retained by the contributor. Opinions expressed are those of the contributor and not necessarily those of the editor or the Society. Closing date for the next issue, 22nd August.

Dates for your diary

Tynwald Cooish 5th July 2017, 225 Chesterton Road, Cambridge, CB4 1AN Contact: 01223 602007 (See page 7 for details)

Mhelliah 9th October 2017, St Bride's Church, Fleet Street followed by lunch at Punch Tavern, Fleet Street

NEXT NEWSLETTER DUE IN THREE MONTHS PLEASE SEND NEWS TO: Douglas Barr-Hamilton, 132 Bush Hill, London N21 2BS (telephone number 020 8360 8001) e-mail: barrhamilton@btinternet com

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Visit the Society’s web site at www londonmanxsociety co uk

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