[From The Manx Quarterly, #15]
Died. January 12th, 1915.
A very prominent figure in Manx life as removed by death on Jan. 12th, in the person of Mr Thomas Horsman Parker Mylechreest, manager in the Isle of Man for Parr's Bank, Ltd. Up to quite recently Mr Mylechreest was in good health and regularly attended to the duties of his position, but during the early days of the present year he became much inconvenienced from a carbuncle at the back of his neck. For this he was treated by Dr Sugden, of Ramsey, but he gradually became weaker, and when the end came it was not unexpected by his family. Mr Mylechreest, who was in the sixty-sixth year of his age, resided at Glentrammon, Lezayre. He was by birth a Ramsey man, his father having been engaged in business in the Northern town. As a youth he obtained a clerkship in the Ramsey branch of Dumbell's Bank, and subsequently entered the service of the ill-fated City of Glasgow Bank, eventually becoming manager of the Dumfries branch of the institution. This position he held when the City of Glasgow Bank failed in the early autumn of 1878, and in the following year he secured an appointment with Parr's Bank at Warrington, in the capacity of private secretary to Mr John Dunn, the general manager. Afterwards he became superintendent of branches from the head office of the concern in London, and when, in the year 1900, Parr's Bank acquired the goodwill of the business carried on in the Isle of Man by Dumbell's Banking Co., Ltd. (now in liquidation), Mr Mylechreest was appointed manager for his company in the Isle of Man, with his headquarters at Douglas.
This position he held to the day of his death, and during his occupancy of it he secured the respect and esteem of business people throughout the Island. He was a most considerate chief, and his loss will be much felt by the staff. Mr Mylechreest, since his return to the Island, has resided at Glentramamon, near Ramsey, which belonged to his wife's family. He married a Miss Quayle (Bolivia Mount), who died a few years ago. The family consists of three grown-up sons and four daughters. One son, Mr Leonard Mylechreest, is an advocate practising in Ramsey ; the other two awe abroad. Of the daughters, three awe at home, and one, married, resides in Liverpool. The deceased gentleman took a deep interest in Freemasonry. He was initiated at the St. Maughold Lodge, Ramsey, before he left the Island over forty years ago, and on his return, when appointed Insular manager of Parr's Bank, he resumed his connection with that Lodge, and ultimately (in 1902) he rose to the position of W.M. Notwithstanding his business :associations, he had a strong penchant for rural life and pursuits. Of horses he was particularly fond, and generally he took great interest in agricultural live stock. A staunch adherent of the Isle of Man Agricultural Society, he was some years ago elected as president of that institution, and displayed much zeal and energy during his year of office. He was one of the founders of the Ramsey Cottage Hospital, and was one of the management committee up to the time of his decease. The funeral took place Friday, January 15th, and was largely attended,
Died February 24th, 1915.
We deeply regret the death of Mr Thomas Philip Ellison, ex-secretary and manager of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, who died at his residence, " The Anchorage," Buck's-road, Douglas, on Wednesday afternoon. For some months he had been confined to the house by serious illness. Indeed, at the annual meeting of the Steam Packet Company, held on Tuesday, there was a reference by Dr. Marshall which pointed to Mr Ellison being at the point of death. Born in Douglas 69 years ago, Mr T. P. Ellison was the elder of the two sons of the late Mr John Ellison, saddler and harness-maker, who by birth a Kirk Andreas man came to Douglas in early manhood and eventually set up business in the town. The younger of Mr Ellison's sons, Mr. John Ellison, junr., a clerk in the Douglas Post Office, predeceased his elder brother many years ago. Mr T. P. Ellison was educated in Douglas, and was at first intended for a schoolmaster. For about three years he served as a pupil teacher in St. George's School, Athol-street, but when about 18 years old, he abandoned that career, and in the early 'sixties he entered the head office of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, the late Mr J. J. Goldsmith being the secretary in those days. When Mr Ellison entered the service of the Company, the number of clerks did not exceed half-a-dozen, and among his colleagues was the late Mr J. J. Taggart, who subsequently became head of the firm of Quiggin and Company, Douglas, and who remained Mr Ellison's lifelong friend. When Mr Ellison joined Steam Packet Company's office staff, the late Mr Henry Bloom Noble was the Chairman of the Company, and was succeeded in that position by the late Mr. William Dalrymple, who in turn was followed by the late Mr J. A. Mylrea, on whose resignation, fifteen years ago, Mr. Dalrymple Maitland, the present Chairman, was appointed to the office, Mr T. P. Ellison serving under all these gentlemen. In due course, Mr Ellison attained to the position of the Company's chief clerk and when Mr Goldsmith, resigned from the position of secretary and manager in 1879, Mr Ellison was appointed by the Board of Directors to succeed him. In 1908, he resigned the office, and he was followed in office by the present secretary and manages, Mr W. M. Corkill, who had been his chief clerk during the whole period of his managership. Mr Ellison's term of management synchronised with the most important happenings in the history and development of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company. When he entered the office 51 years ago the Company was a comparatively small concern with a staff not one-tenth in number of that at present engaged-It was after Mr Ellison's appointment as secretary and manager that the rapid development of the Company's business set in. In 1879, the commodore vessel was the old four-funnelled steamer Ben-my-Chree, which had less than half the carrying capacity of her namesake, the present commodore vessel, and was eight knots per hour slower. Increasing popularity of the Isle of Man as a holiday resort in the early 'eighties induced an enormous expansion of tourist traffic, and the Company took energetic, measures to cope with the situation. A great crisis in the history of the Company came in the year 1887, when Sir William Pearce, the famous Clyde shipbuilder, promoted the Manx Line to run in opposition to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company, so far as the Liverpool-Douglas passenger traffic was concerned. During the seasons of 1887 and 1888 the opposition between the rival concerns was cut-throat of character and afforded some exciting experiences. So far as the local company was concerned, the time was one of very great anxiety, and as the chief burden of keeping the Company's end up, as it were, lay with Mr Ellison, he, for two years or so had anything but a bed of roses. Eventually an agreement was agreed to under which the Manx Line was absorbed by the old Company, the Queen Victoria and Prince of Wales being taken over. Since then, the tourist traffic has gone on increasing steadily. Mr Ellison's resignation in 1908 was deeply regretted by the company. He was highly respected and esteemed by a large circle of tradespeople. By his subordinates he was greatly liked, and in every way that lay in his power he endeavoured to promote their well-being. After retirement into private life he resided at "The Anchorage," Buck's-road. Though he took a considerable interest in Manx affairs, Mr Ellison could never be induced to stand for public office. Had he chosen to became a candidate for either the House of Keys or the Douglas Town Council his election would have been certain, but his tastes and inclinations did not lie in this direction. After his retirement, however, he associated himself with movements that had for their object the rational enjoyment and improvement of young people, and particularly did he lay himself out to encourage the cultivation of vocal music. He was a generous supporter of such movements both financially and by means of the considerable influence which he was able to bring to bear. He was for several years a zealous member of the Committee of the Isle of Man General Hospital and Dispensary, and as Chairman of the Douglas Carnival Committee of 1911, he rendered yeoman service to the town. Of many public charities he was a most liberal supporter. Throughout his life he was a loyal adherent of the Wesleyan Methodist Church and gave freely towards local and Connexional objects. He took a leading part in providing the magnificent organ in Victoria-street Church, and was a most munificent contributor to the fund. Mr Ellison was a bachelor and he is survived by two sisters, who resided with him.
THE FUNERAL.
Amid heartfelt manifestations of sympathy and sorrow, the funeral of the late Mr Thomas Philip Ellison, ex-secretary and manager of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Co., whose death was recorded last week, took place on Saturday morning. The cortege left Mr Ellison's residence, "The Anchorage," Bucks-road, at 11 o'clock for Braddan Cemetery. The chief mourners were Mr and Mrs W. Ellison, Ivydene, Michael; Mr D. Vondy, Mr J. Cleator, Ernie and Stanley Mortimer Mr E. Qualtrough, Port St. Mary; Mr J. J. Joughin, Ballacrebbin; Mr F. Gale, and Mr N. Douglas. Among those present who attended to pay their last tribute of respect were several of the directors and a number of the officials and employees of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Co., Ltd. They were Measrs D. Maitland, S.H.B., W. H. Kitto, C. T. W. Hughes-Games, W. A. Wail: (directors), W. M. Corkill (secretary and manager), T. Craine (assistant manager), R. Heggie (chief accountant), E. C. Kneen (advocate to the company), A. L. Whyte (foreman engineer), Jas. Ritchie (caterer), W. G, Burwell, G. M. Morrison, W. Looney, J. Richards J. Bell (Ramsey agent), W. Kissack, John Halsall (foreman carpenter), Jno. Lewin (chief boatsman), Capts. Reid, Corkill, Cogeen, Billot, Quine, Cain, Gawne, and Cannell. Amongst the members, of the general public were Messrs R. F. Douglas, E. Corrin T.C., W. Kermode, W. J. Corlett, A.K., F. Edmondson, R. Connall, F. Sanders, H. Shimmin, Joe. Faragher, W. Quine, G. Green, W. Beck, J. McLaughlin, J. Cubbon, E. Bell, J. G. Adamson, J. T. Cowell, R.G., J. C. Cain, J. C. Cannell, G. M. Jones, Wm. Goldsmith, W, H. Blaker, W. Lewin, B. Cain, F. C. Painter, T. W. Kelly, H. Ward, T. R. Lewin, J. Phillips, J. P. Smith, W. Clegg, J. H. Clarke (Selborne-road), R. Clucas, H.K. , H. Robinson, T. H. Fleming, G. Robertson, Alderman Robt. Corlett, Councillor J. J. Corlett, D. Corrin, C. H. Kay, H. Cowin, H. B. Sissons, E. Quaggin, T. Stowell, W. Shimmin, T. Moore, J. J, Davidson, W. Caley, J. Comish, Alderman R. D. Cowin,
[p324 missing]
school were as near to his heart as any nterest outside of his own home, and for upwards of twenty-five years he was its treasurer, and in that capacity he took a large share in the erection of the new schools. His work far the youth of this Church would alone hold him in our unfailing remembrance. But that was by no means his only sphere of activity. All that made for the honour of the House of the Lord and the service of praise more comely was his delight. Hence, it was natural that he should take a large share of the work of arranging for the erection of our organ, along with the ladies of the sewing meeting. He will be remembered for that so long as music is so diligent a handmaid in the service of worship as she is likely long to be in this sanctuary. Others of you will remember of other works of his that I have not mentioned. In all his work the man himself was made manifest. He had an in-finite capacity for taking pains, and exerted all that capacity in the service of his beloved Church. His bounties were as munificent as his labours were manifold. and his encouragements were as precious as both. My friends behind me could bear testimony to his many kindnesses. The cause of human progress and the task of alleviating human misery and pain found in him an untiring helper. As a son and as a brother his relationshipss were characterized by reverence and love. There was something sacramental in the affection of that home. If I sought to epitomise the faith of his soul and the manner of his life, I should find that epitome in two verses of Gray's " Elegy " :-
Large was his bounty and his soul sincere,
Heaven did a recompense as fully send
He gave to Memory all he had-a tear,
He gained from Heaven-'twas all he wished -a Friend.
No further seek his merits to disclose
Not draw his frailties from their dread abode,
There they alike in trembling hope repose,
The bosom of his Father and his God.
In the course of the service the choir sang the anthem, "Yea, though I walk through the Valley" (Sullivan), and at the close the congregation remained standing while the organist played Chopin's "Funeral March."
With the passing of Mr T. P. Ellison, the limited stage of our Island home loses one of its best characters. Others there were, and are, who bulked larger in the world's sight and who lifted up their voices with strength,. He lived quietly. He mingled much with men, from sheer love of his kind, but in spirit he was withdrawn from the world. He has died as he lived, in quiet retreat ; and for some of us another star has veiled its light, and a strange trembling touches our hearts. Heaven rest this soul
Many people in Douglas knew Mr Ellison longer than I did. Indeed, our friendship covered only a period of some sixteen years, and was particularly connected with, his last decade in business. For seven of the years during which I was in the employ of the lisle of Man Steam Packet Company I was with him constantly-first as a private clerk ands afterwards in a confidential capacity. Why he gave me that privilege I do not pretend to know. It began, I believe, with the discovery of my shorthand speed, and that work like the reporting of interviews between the directors and visiting deputations (hitherto regarded as impossible) could be done. It was done, and memory ceased to be the only guide to the conversation on such occasions. From that time, confidential and responsible work, came my way ,constantly, with the very natural result that my industry was considerably stimulated, and my loyalty to him quite won. I was willing to go for him, when quite a tad more than for any other man in Douglas.
As a business man he had many of the gifts which make for success, though he suffered from delicate health and was very susceptible to his immediate environment. Indeed, he was a man who needed congenial surroundings in order to show to advantage, for., mixed with the clay of the man of affairs was an undeniable strain of the dreamer. Some-times on a winter day, in his private room at the Imperial, he would pause to think over the expression of some letter or report, and the boom of the waves outside the window breaking the silence would seem to stir the latent poetry of his soul. He had a very fair gift of speech. Tricks of manner and phrase-ology naturally abounded. I shall never forget the shorthand outlines of some of them, and I often smile now as I catch the solid of them in the reports and correspondence which emanate from the Red Pier. Under emotional pressure he could at times lift discussion and correspondence alike to a real literary height. In fact it was when he was stirred that he revealed his best and most capable form some of his schemes born in such hours having exercised immense influence on the Steam Packet Company and the Island generally. He was better as an advocate than as a critic and was freest from personal idiosyncrasy when importing a measure. He had much more independence, decision and nervous energy than he was often given credit for. His judgement of men was at times quite heterodox, but in cases where he followed his intuition he was usually right. In an ordinary way, be seemed to need time to weigh up men. He was very human in his attitude to subordinates, and was considerate and, kind to an exceeding degree. Many missed him when he retired; ; more will miss him now.
He was a man of many interests, and his withdrawal from business did not lessen his zest for life. In a way he seemed to me for some time after his retirement to be stronger and happier than for years. In his books, music, pictures, china and church work he found real pleasure. He read widely rather than deeply, and had a taste for real literature.
He was one of the old school of business the men of leisurely ways, cultured tastes and gentlemanly bearing, a striking contrast to the Americanised modern type. all business, self and ignorance. The assumption of pompemness or dignity never troubled his soul, though his reserve gave him a dignity of his own. Of whims and affectations like the, rest of us he had a share. Often I have heard him laughed at for them by men. not fit to unloose his shoe-lachet, men who never suspected the hinterland of his mental life, nor could have valued it if they had known it. His modest and shrinking nature was both a hindrance and a help
When travelling we discussed many things-churches, preachers. politics, war. books, but never, I think, religion. He was, of course, a profoundly religious man, but I had been some years with him before he discovered my leanings that way. When I intimated my intention of abandoning business and entering the ministry, his sympathy and kindness surpassed anything of the sort I knew in Douglas. His kindnesses were innumerable, yet withal done quietly, even secretly. In. all this he was much more of a parent than a master.
I suppose the sea still booms at the foot of the Imperial, when the, inshore gale lashes the flooding tide to fury. I suppose its boom is as full of music and longing as it ever was and it is not in the slightest degree different because a good man has died. But when I hear it thunder beside me now, rolling up from the depths of the wild North Sea, I fly back in spirit to the old days, when, pencil and notebook in hand, I waited for the kindly voice of him who has now laid him down to sleep.
R. WILFRID CALLIN.
Grimsby.
Died February 19th, 1915.
It will be learned with deep regret that Mr Matthew Sharp, ironmonger, Douglas, died early on February 19th. For some years Mr Sharp had borne with patience the affliction of painful illness, and he was confined to his bed for thirteen months Prior to death. He was a Scot by birth, nerd ewer retained a warm affection for the band of his nativity. A founder of the Isle of Man Caledonian Association, he was, while in health, a most enthusiastic member of that patriotic body. He was, too, an ardent Freemason, Tynwald being his mother lodge. In youth and early manhood Mr Sharp was a trusted and respected employee of the firm of Todhunter and Elliot, but nearly forty years ago he, in partnership with Mr James Cubbon, established an ironmongery business in Douglas. On their dissolution, Mr Sharp carried on the business, and survived as one of the oldest tradesmen in the town. A musician of considerable attainments, Mr Sharp was for several years precentor at St. Andrew's Church, and he was otherwise a prominent figure in musical affairs, of thirty to forty years ago. Mr Sharp, who was about 70 years old, leaves a widen and three children. His son, Mr George Sharp, is a sergeant of the Isle of Man volunters. Mr Sharp's two daughters are married, and resident in Scotland.
Died March 4th, 1915.
The Isle of Man has sustained a great loss in the death of Mr. Alexander J.P., general manager of the Isle of Man Banking Company, Ltd., which sad event occurred at Eastbourne, Douglas, on Thursday, 4th March. Particularly will the Banking Company have reason to regret the death of Mr. Hill, whose control of the affairs of the concern for a period of twenty-one years had been marked with conspicuous success, and had been coincident with the most prosperous chapter in the bank's history.
Mr Hill for many years had been handicapped by indifferent health. With a view to a cure he in the year 1908 toured round the world in company with Capt Kitto. They proceeded to Australia, whence they visited China and Japan, subsequently crossing the Pacific to Vancouver and returning home via Canada and the Atlantic. The rest and change did Mr Hill a great amount of good. Transient, however, was the improvement, for in the following year the throat trouble which had been the most marked feature of his illness returned, and be, on the advice of his medical attendant, Dr. Mackenzie, consulted Mr. Stiles, of Edinburgh, a surgeon of great eminence, at whose instance he underwent more than one operation in connection with his malady. These operations relieved him from time to time, and he bore up bravely for years under circumstances which would have caused most men to succumb. He remained at the post of duty in the bank up to January 9th last, when his condition grew serious and he was compelled to keep the house. For a brief time the rest had a beneficial affect, but complications eventually set in, and the case was recognised as hopeless. Mr Hill in his last illness displayed the resignation and fortitude which were always characteristic of him, and he faced the inevitable manfully. The end came about sunrise on Thursday.
Mr Alexander Hill was the eldest son of the late Capt John Hill, some-time commodore of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's fleet. Born in the south of Scotland, he came to Douglas with his parents when he was two years old, so that while not a Manxman by birth, practically the whole of his life was spent in the Island. He was educated at the Douglas Grammar School, and on attaining the age of sixteen he entered the service of the, Bank of Mona, the Manx branch of the ill-fated City of Glasgow Bank. On the collapse of the City of Glasgow Bank in the autumn of 1878, Mr Hill joined the staff of the Isle of Man Banking Company, Ltd., at its head office. Mr Hill steadily rose in the service of the company, and on the resignation of Mr A. Clarke, he was appointee) cashier. In the year 1884 Mr J. J. Kaman resigned the managership and joined the board of directors, Mr Hill being appointed his successor in the management, while Mr Thos. Cubbon took up the position of cashier vacated by Mr Hill on his promotion-Throughout the whole period of Mr Hill's control the business of the bank increased rapidly sad substantially. He had a remarkably complete grasp of banking and financial affairs, and he ever brought energy, ability, tact and courtesy to bear in the discharge of his arduous and responsible duties. The failure of Dumbell's Bank in 1900 was a particularly trying time for him, but he emerged triumphantly from the severe ordeal. As a matter of fact the collapse of the rival banking institution had a most unfortunate influence upon Manx finance, and it was in large measure due to Mr Hill's masterly dealing with the situation that the credit of the Island was quickly restored. Especially did he display splendid grasp of the situation, when shortly after the failure of Dumbell's Bank, certain malicious persons set afloat an utterly unfounded rumour which resulted in a run upon the Isle of Man Bank. Mr Hill quickly realised the situation, and made arrangements to cope with it. These were so effective that in less than a day the run was stopped and the public confidence in the bank was completely restored.
When Mr Hill entered upon the management the bank head office was in the premises now occupied by Mr R. Williamson, at the corner of Athol-street and Church-street; but business grew so enormously under his regime that removal to larger and more suitable premises became a matter of necessity. Accordingly a block of shop property in Athol-street and Prospect-hill was acquired, and the old buildings being pulled down, the site was utilised for the erection of the existing bank premises whose superb granite frontage to Athol-street and Prospect-hill and the spacious and handsome interior constitute one of the finest architectural features of the Island. The new building was completed and occupied in 1902, and doubtless the excellence of the situation and of the accommodation has contributed in considerable degree to the great advance of business which has been experienced during the last thirteen years. Mr Hill took the leading part in bringing about this new housing of the concern, and he was also mainly instrumental. in securing the establishment of branch offices in Regent-street and the Crescent (Douglas), and the opening of new branches at Port Erin and Laxey. The Isle of Man Bank was opened for business on November 1st, 1865; thus the concern celebrates its jubilee this year, and it is satisfactory to find that the fiftieth year of its existence sees the concern doing by far the largest banking business in the Isle of Man. That the bank occupies this proud position is in very large measure due to the zealous and discreet supervision of its affairs for twenty-one years by Mr Hill, combined with the com-plete confidence which the Mans public had in his management. In business life he was sagacious, far-seeing, and level-headed, while his probity was of the strictest character. So far as was consistent with the conscientious discharge of duty he was most considerate of the bank's customers, and his sound advice was ever at the disposal of clients, and was frequently of the very greatest benefit. In private life he was most kindly and agreeable, and his breadth of view inclined him to charity of thought and deed. Naturally retiring of disposition, he avoided public meetings, and had almost a horror of speeches. At social functions he was at his best, and these he, thoroughly enjoyed in his own quiet way. He always retained a warm affection for the land-of his birth, and in this connection he took a leading part in the formation of the Isle of Man Caledonian Association, and while health permitted was delighted to be, present at the annual Burns' celebration of the society. From childhood he was an adherent of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Douglas, and he was an ardent supporter of movements in connection with that place of worship. He held the hon. treasurership of the Sunday-school, and took an active and substantial interest in the building and furnishing of the new school adjoining the church. He was for long a friend and adviser of the late Mr Henry Bloom Noble, of Villa Marina, and it came as no surprise that he was appointed one of the trustees under that gentleman's will. In the administration of Mr Noble's vast estate he was very prominent. Practically the whole of the estate was bequeathed for charitable purposes, and the trustees were invested with almost absolute discretion as to its application. His advice and suggestions in this respect were much appreciated by his co-trustees, and it is an open secret that it was in large degree owing to his influence that so much money was wisely devoted to salutary public purposes. He particularly gave his whole-hearted support to the application of a large sum of money with the object of improving agriculture in the Island, and of educating the farming community in the matter of agricultural research; though it is to be feared that his efforts in this direction have not been appreciated to the extent they should have been by Manx landowners and tillers of the soil. In the year 1910 he was placed upon the Commission of the Peace, for the Island, but ill-health interfered largely with the discharge of his duties as a magistrate.
Mr Hill married Miss Annie Cowen, third daughter of the late Mr John Cowen, proprietor of the Kewaigue dye works. Mrs Hill survives her husband. There is issue of the marriage one daughter, now the wife of Capt Kneale Morrison, a son of Mr R. E. Morrison, the eminent Manx artist. Capt Morrison is at present at Knowsley, on military service. Mr Hill was fifty-three years old.
THE FUNERAL.
At the funeral of the late Air Alexander Hill, manager of the Isle of Man Banking Co., Ltd, whose death took place on Thursday, March 4th, all classes, of the community were represented. The cortege left the deceased's late residence at 11 o'clock on Saturday morning for the Borough Cemetery. The principal mourners were Capt. Wm. Hill (brother), Mr S. Cowen and Mr G. Cowen (brothers-in-law), Mr G. Cowen, junr. Capt. Morrison (son-in-law), Major Wey (4th North Lancs. Regiment), Mr A. Robertson, Mr A. C. Paterson, and Mr W. J. Corlett, M.H.K. Representing the Isle of Man Banking Company were Messrs D. Maitland, S.H.B., E. T. Kissack, Philip Christian, J.P., J. R. Kerruish H.K., L. Goldie-Taubman, J.P. (directors), Thos. Cubbon (secretary), J. B. Keig (Ramsey), Thos. H. Watterson (Peel), P. G. Ralfe (Castletown), T. K. Garrett (Port St. Mary), J. Boyd (Regent street), T. Dodd and W. J. Corlett (Head Office) and W. Kelly (caretaker). Amongst the,mem-bers of they general public were the Mayor (Councillor D. Flinn), Aldermen R. Moore, R. D. Cowen, Councillors J. J. Quine, J. J. Corlett, D. Collister, R. J. Kelly, J. Kelly (Christian-rd.), R. C. Cain, Andrew Caley, W. Knox, E. Corrin, G. Gillmore, Mr A. B. Cuthbertson (Deputy Town Clerk), Mr F. Cottle (Borough Surveyor), the Clerk of the Rolls, Deemster Callow, Surgeon-Major Richardson, Major Mackenzie, Lieut. P. Kissack, Canon R. D. Kermode, Rev. F. Callister, Capt. Penwell, Capt. Keig, Capt. Corkill, Capt. Ward, Lieut. J. H. Cubbon, Messrs C. H. Kay, T. Craine, V. Bucknall O. Costain, E. C. Kneen, Thos. H.
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Now the struggle is over and he has passed from a world of sin and pain and sorrow to glory, honour, and immortality. We are much the poorer for his departure, for men cast in the mould of Alexander Hill are hand to find.
Our respectful sympathy goes, out to the sorrowing widow and her daughter, as well as to the brothers and sisters of the deceased, who, like him, were reared in this congregation. May the sundering of so many earthly ties bring a closer, dearer union with our Load and Saviour and also the blessed hope of reunion with our loved ones, on the far side of death.
On September 23rd, in Cleveland, Ohio, a service was held over the remains of Mr William Hudson, late of Douglas, by the Bigelow Masonic Lodge of Cleveland, Ohio, of which he was a member. Mr Hudson was foreman for the firm of John Gill and Sons, and in performing his duties met with an accident. After being operated on successfully in Glenville Hospital, and, regaining strength, he was taken to the home of Mr Michael Crebbin, superintendent for John Gill and Son, and remained there in the constant motherly care of Mrs Crebbin both night and day. After Mr. Hudson had regained sufficient strength to be around for three or four weeks, he was suddenly taken ill, and it was found necessary to have him removed to the hospital, where he passed away peacefully on September 21st, Mr Hudson was placed in a vault in Lake View Cemetery until further arrangements. Numerous flowers added to the beauty of the service. Me pallbearers were all her Masons, namely:- John Hyslop and Robert G. Anderson, formerly of Peel; John Corris, Richard Crebbin, and Daniel Kelly, formerly of Port St. Mary ; and Steve Kelly, formerly of Douglas.
Many Douglas people now in the sere and yellow leaf, or approaching to that period of life, will have pleasant and kindly recollections of the Rev John Chater, who in the early 'sixties of the last century was minister of the Congregational Church in Douglas. In those days the church met in a building in Athol-street, the site of which is now occupied by Messrs Mylchreest's garage. The church building was erected during the opening years of the nineteenth century mainly as the outcome of efforts put forth by the Rev Samuel Haining, the first minister in charge of a Congregational Church in the Isle of Man. Mrs Inglis, wife of the Rev David Inglis, B.A., now of Lancaster, and formerly of Douglas, is a grand-daughter of the Congregational pioneer. Mr Chater left Douglas to take charge of a Congregational Church in Southport, and has since resided in the famous Lancashire seaside resort. He quickly established himself as a power in Southport Free Church circles, and for many years before his death, which took place on Jan. 18th, he was, constantly referred to as the Grand Old Man of Southport Nonconformity.
Died March 7th, 1915.
The tidings of the death of Mr Thos. Clague, senr., T.C., came upon the inhabitants with startling suddenness on March. 7th, and cast a deep shadow over Port St. Mary and the South of the Island. The circumstances connected with his death are sad in the extreme. Edward Keggen, proprietor of the Albert Hotel, had been drinking heavily and became unmanageable. Mrs Keggen was ill in bed, and those in charge of the household duties felt it incumbent to call in the assistance of the police. The late Mr Clague has a public telephone call office on his premises, and a messenger was despatched from the hotel to ring up Sergt. Faragher. Mr Clague pleaded with the pasty not to take this drastic measure without a further attempt to pacify Keggen, and out of the goodness of his heart went down to the hotel and did his utmost to restrain Keggen from further violent conduct. His kind but firm persuasion was without avail. A struggle ensued, in which Mr Clague easily overpowered his adversary and had him pinned down to the floor of the landing. The exertion and excitement proved too much for Mr Clague, and he called for someone to run for help, but when assistance arrived Mr Clague was found in a state of complete collapse. Dr Williams and Sergt. Faragher were promptly summoned and were quickly on the scene. The doctor worked most assiduously in an effort to restore animation, but Mr Clague had passed away. Mr Clague, who had only just recovered from an attack of influenza, had previously been medically attended by Dr Williams for a weak heart. There is not the slightest indication that Keggen struck Mr Clague at any time during the struggle, and no marks of violence were found on the body after thorough examination by the doctor and Sergt. Faragher. Keggen, who was in a pitiable condition on account of his drinking bout, was taker into custody, and stimulants were given to him at frequent intervals by Sergt. Faragher. He was discharged at the close of the inquiry.
Mr Thomas Clague, senior, was born at Port Erin 64 years ago, and with the exception of a brief period spent in Liver-pool in early manhood, he resided all his days in the South of the Island. As farmer and butcher, he carried on extensive businesses at Port St. Mary and Port Erin. He was widely known as a man of enterprise, foresight, and ability, and was one of the first to realise the possibilities of Port Erin as a visiting resort. He built the Belle Vue Hotel a. bold strokel and under his capable management the concern attained a wide popularity. His genial nature and cheerful disposition won for him a host of English friends, and there was great disappointment amongst them when he disposed of the hotel to the Isle of Man Breweries, Ltd., in 1899. Along with several other speculators, Mr Clague some years ago opened out the Calf of Man as a visiting resort. This, however, did not prove a lucrative undertaking. Mr Clague eventually became sole proprietor, and in 1911 he sold the islet to Mr Samuel Haigh, of Huddersfield, for the sum of £2,650. Subsequently Mr Clague established a holiday camp at Perwick Bay, Port St. Mary, which culminated in the erection of the present handsome hotel and Hydro. The building is furnished throughout in most complete and modern fashion, and has already become popular with a large section of the better-class visitors. Mr Clague was regarded a prince of caterers, and personally supervised the management of the new premises. The deceased gentleman took a warm interest in local government affairs. He has served something like 14 years on Port St. Mary Commission, tenaciously championed and saw brought to fruition many desirable improvements. Among these we might mention the inclusion of Four Roads, Smelt, and Fistard in the Port St. Mary district, and the thorough sewerage of the port. The latter is one of the finest systems on the Island, and Mr Clague was one of its keenest supporters. He has ably filled the position of chairman on the board for several terms. Mr Clague was also for some time a member of Port Erin Commissioners, and he was equally jealous for the prosperity of both resorts, with which he was so closely identified. An ardent educationist, he was about 20 years on the Rushen School Board, and for a greater part of the time he was vice-chairman. He retired in November, 1911. He was a director of Port Erin and Port St. Mary Gas Company up to the time of his death; and he was for some time on the directorate of the Rusher Water Works Company and Port St. Mary Golf Club. He was Past Grand of the Harbour of Peace Lodge of Oddfellows, and has been a trustee of the lodge since 1895. A Freemason, he was a member of the Lodge of Mona, Castletown. He was a trustee of Port St. Mary Wesleyan Church. A man of wide interests, Mr Clague endeared himself to all; he was an honoured citizen, and his ministries and thoughtfulness for those in distress was one of his striking qualities. Genuine sorrow goes out to the widow and son (Mr Thos. Clague, junior) and the other members of the family in their great and unexpected sorrow.
The funeral of the late Mr Thomas Clague took place on Wednesday March 10th. The high esteem is which the deceased was held by all classes of tho community was manifest when about seven hundred persons attended to pay their last token of respect. The interment was at Kirk Christ Churchyard. Rushen. At the door of Mr Clague's late residence in Athol-street, Port St Mary, Miss Radcliffe (evangelist) gave out the hymn "God moves in a mysterious way," which was feelingly sung. The coffin was then borne on the shoulders of a detachment of the military guard stationed at Port St Mary (to whom Mr Clague had been exceedingly kind in providing necessaries, such as beds, etc, for the house in which they are billetted in Marine-terrace), member of the Lodge of Mona (Freemasons) Castletown, and of the Loyal Harbour of Peace Lodge of Oddfellows, En route to the churchyard the hymns " Jesu, Lover of my Soul," "O God our help in ages past," and part of the 90th Psalm were sung. The cortege was met at the gate by the Rev Canon Leece (vicar of Rushen) who sympathetically officiated at the last rites, and the remains of the deceased were again borne on the shoulders of the military. In the church the hymn "Abide with me," was majestically sung by a congregation which filled every part of the building. Mr A. Cregeen, A.I.S.C., presided at the organ, and played an extemporisation of his own composition, and Beethoven's "Funeral March." The burial service at the graveside concluded, Mr J. D. Clucas, C.P., P.P.G.M., read the Oddfellows' service, and feelingly referred to the life and sterling character of the deceased. The hymn "Peace, perfect peace " was sung round the open grave, and Miss Radcliffe touchingly offered up ex-tempore prayer. The members of the Masonic Lodges present wore sprigs of acacia , which were deposited on the coffin. The coffin was inscribed as follows '.-" Thomas Clague, died 7th March, 1915 ; aged 64 years." Many of those assembled were deeply and visibly affected and sympathy was expressed on all sides for the family who are under the shadow of a deep and mysterious sorrow.
The chief mourners were :- Mr Thomas Clague (son), Miss Madge Clague (granddaughter), Mr John Clague, The Hydro, Port Erin ('brother), Messrs J. J. Clague, T.C., Ernest Clague, Henry Clague , W. H. Watterson (tailor) and John Watterson (nephews). Mr Henry Kormode (Howe) Mr and Mrs Quinney (Ballasalla). Messrs T. J. Qualtrough. Arthur Gross, W. Kneen (Victoria-road), Herbert Moore, A. Muom, T.C., W. S. Gelling (Crosby), W. S,. Gelling (Douglas), J. H. Gelling (Port St. Mary). J. H. Gelling (Crosby), and the late Mr Glague's employees. The numerous gathering of public and private persons present at the funeral included Messrs J. S. Gell (High-Bailiff of Douglas and Castletown) , J. D. Clucas. C.P., Geo. Kay (architect), Dr. Williams, Rev. P. Ockford, S. Watterson baker (Douglas), J. D. Cowley (Douglas), Ddw. Martin (Castletown), J. J. Spence (Douglas), G. J. Burtonwood (Douglas), Sergt. Faragher, T. Clague (Peel), J. A. Sutcliffe, T. A. Sale (Castletown), G. W. Dean (Douglas), W. Allcock (Onchan), A. Kitto, Vincent Bucknall, Isaac Costain, Jas. Costain (Colby) Capt. Jos. Elliott, Capt. Wm. Elliott (Harbour Master), J. Hughes (Harbour Master), J. C. Dickson, H. J. Qualtrough, R. H. Maddrell (Ballamaddrel) E. R. Collister, G. H. Williamson, H. Harris, Edw. Anderson (Surby), W. E. Collister D. Lace, F. L. Heslop, T. K.neen (Ballacorkish), H. Kermode (Bradda), W. Rae, S. Prideaux, T. Cregeen- (Sea Mount), J, Q. Watterson, James Kelly, W. Moore (Milner House), J. Page (The Snaefell), Joe. McArd S. Keggen, Jno.. Gerry (draper), W. Cowley (Bay View-road), Edw. Costain, H. P. Kelly, T T. Kinley, R. H. Kennaugh, W. H. Gell (grocer), Edw. Kinley (Ballafesson), R. Christian (Ballafesson), M. Pollard. J. J. Sansbury, Wm. Qualtrough, W. S. Qualtrough, Edw. Turnbull (Port Erin), Richard Costain, :senr, E. Turnbull (Croit-e-Caley). T. Quillian, senr., J. H. Moore, 1Korfitt, W. Maddrell, J v. Jackson, Cant_ Wm. (Uhtster, W. Jackson, S. Harboroug'h, Chnstie, Ambrose Collister, W. L. Corlett, T. S. Crebbin, Capt Walter Cowley, Thos- Keig, Fred Watter-sem, Fred Rogers, V. L. Swales, T. H. Qualtrough, J. Carry (Howe), Jas. Crebbin, Tom Cregeen, Thos. Qualtrough., W. Keig (Howe), J. Caine (Bradda), T. McArd, J. R. Connal, J.P, CL W. Leigh, W. Coals, Woods (Kentraugh), Bell (Kentraugh), H. A. Omit, J. S. Henderson, Edward Moore (chairman Rushen School Board), Wallace, W. W. Kelly, James Costain (Port Erin), J. W. Kermode, C. H. Clague, H. C, Chadwick, W. H. Gell (baker), W. J. Skillicorn, James Moore. H. Costain (Four Roads), Richard Qualtrough. R, Collister, E. Qualtrough (parish clerk), etc etc.
Port St. Mary Commissioners were represented by Messrs J. J. Qualtrough (chairman), R. Costain, N. G. Murray. T. A. Miller, W. Kelly, A. Moore, J. Oliver, and R. A. Collister (clerk).
Port Erin Commissioners: Messrs J. J. McArd (chairman), Ambrose Qualtrough, H.K., James Crebbin, Thos. Costain, J. J. Clague, and Thos. E. Moore (clerk).
Rushen Parish Commissioners :-Messrs Alfred Contain (Ballagawne), Alfred Clague, and Thos. Radclife.
Rushen Poor Law Guardians. Rev. Canon Leece (chairman), Messrs SanrWl Gorry, W. Kneen (Croit-e-Caley), Richard Keig, R. C®Water. Herbert Moore, Jas. Maddrell, and Mr J. AAem (who was the late Mr Clague's co-trustee in the Oddfellows' Society).
Lodge of Mona (Freemasons) Castletown :-Wor. Bros. A. Cregeen. , PPGSW, J. S. Gell, PK, PPGR., A. E. Gawne PM., PCP:, G. Is Trustran , PM., C. J. Adams, IPM_ James Rogers, PM., Carl Luft, PM Richard Moore PM, A. Liddle, SW, F. R. Moore (treasurer). Irvin Ashton (secretary), Thos. Lamb, H Hudson, T. J. Qualtrough, Wm. Cubbon (butcher), J. Parkes (Port Erin). J. Quayle, E Kinley; E. Madrell, N. G. Murray etc.
Wreaths were sent by the following :-Wife, Tory and daughter; Madse and Winnie ; from all at the Rows"; Mr John Clague and family, The Hydro, Park Erin ; Susie and Arthur (cross); Alice and Frank J. Page; Mr W. H. Watterson ; Mr and Mrs Wm. Kneen and family (Victoria-road) ; Mr and Mrs Herbert Moore ; employees ; Port St. Mary Commissioners ; Lodge of Mona (Castletown) Freemasons; directors of Port Erin and Port St -Mary Gas Co. ; members of Port Erin Golf Club; J. D. Clucas, (JP).; Mr G. L. Trustrum ; Miss Smith, Belle Vue Hotel ; Mr E B,. Gawne J.P. ; Mr and Mrs James Moore ; Mr J. J. Spence, Douglas Mr G; J,. Burtonwood ; M- H. Fineberg ; Mr and Mrs W. Collister, Port Erin ; and Mr and Mrs Woods, Kentraugh.
Mr Herbert Moore carried out the funeral arrangements.
Died January 17th, 1919.
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Mr Arthur G. Kaye, architect [] and London. Eldest son of Mr Joseph Kaye, builder, of Douglas, died on Jan. 17th at of Highfield, Selborne-road, ex-Mayor of Douglas, Mr Arthur Kaye was born in Douglas 44 years ago, and was educated at the Douglas Grammar School. On leaving that institution he was articled to Messrs J. and S. Kewley, architects and builders, Douglas, to whose business he ultimately succeeded. He was a master of his profession, combining practical knowledge of building with rare skill in design and draughtsmanship. In his youth Mr Kaye was a very fine exponent of Rugby football, and played a useful forward game for the Douglas F.C: In later years he travelled considerably and saw much of America, Egypt, Algiers, and the Continent of Europe. His health has been failing for same years. By a large circle of acquaintances Mr Arthur Kaye was regarded with both affection and []. The funeral took place on Friday, Jan 22nd (Friday), interment being at Braddan Cemetery.
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