I grew up hearing about my Manx heritage. We were very proud knowing that we were just a little bit "different" from everyone else. My sister, brother, and I knew that our dad would love someday to visit the Isle of Man but doubted that would ever happen.

Now, it's coming true. My son had planned a European trip for this fall and has decided to take his "papa" on one part of the trip with him. Although we realize it's not much time, we have scheduled 24 hours for my dad to visit the land of his grandparents.

We would like to use that time as economically as we can. Daddy has asked to visit the Laxey Wheel and we think the Mann Cat Sanctuary (he referred to it as a cat farm). My son who has friends in England and Wales, has suggested he visit some site associated with the pagans who once were on the island. Of course, we would like Daddy to see as much of the countryside as possible.

We would like to hire someone who could pick them up at the airport and give them a guided tour of the island, visiting the places that they have specific interest in. We would also like a good recommendation of some place to stay for the night.

Ideally, we would like to hire a relative. Since I'm not big into geneology and most of our relatives who had direct connections are no longer with us, I have only limited knowledge of the family lines. My dad's grandfather was John Craine. He entered the US through Seattle, Washington and farmed in both Ohio and Illinois. He is buried in the cemetary at Galva, IL. My father's grandmother was Margaret Brideson. I do not know how she came to the US, but she, too, is buried in Galva. Their children were William, John, Margaret, Katherine, Helen, and I know I'm missing at least one other, I think. My great grandfather married a second time, again a Manxwoman, who had a some named Frank. She, too, is buried in Galva. A relative by the name of Tom Brideson had visited the family in Ohio and the family in Illinois quite some time ago, but I believe he has since passed away.

If anyone has any information for us or would be willing to act as chauffeur for a day, we would appreciate hearing from you. Likewise, a recommendation for accomodations is also welcommed. They will be visiting the Isle of Man on September 27, leaving the morning of the 28th. Daddy is 73; my son is 24.

Thanks for any help you can give us.