Captain Webb did indeed visit the island. He was the official opener of the first Noble's Swimming Baths [with sea water] in Victoria Street , Douglas.

When the I Museum goes on line you will be able to do an online newspaper search [for a fee] free to local callers. At present it is unofficially open while they see how it works etc. Official opening

Tynwald Day/ July 5th this year. The online service is hoped to be active by Dec. 2011 latest.