true but there was a legal requirement since 1730's to send children to school until about 12 - however the name Smith almost certainly indicates a non-manx family so I cant say how they would behave - boys certainly worked in the coastal fishing but they seemed to be around 12 or so (ie when they had some strength though most duties were preparing the food) - I cant see why anyone would send an 8 year old to sea in a working sailing ship when muscle power was often of major importance - an 8 year old cant even cook tho a 12year old could.
The name Evander I think needs some investigation - cant see any Manx connection here.