[From The Manx Quarterly, #29]

CHARLES BERNARD HEYES.

Died April 13th, 1922.

Mr Charles Bernard Heyes, formerly editor and proprietor of "The Ramsey Courier" died in London on April 13th. Mr Heyes was born in Manchester, and had journalistic experience on the " Catholic Times," "Manchester Evening News," " Manx Sun," "Isle of Man Times," and after his leaving the Island, he was for some time managing editor of " Reynolds’ News-paper." Although over age, he served in the Great War. He was married to a sister of Mr J. A. Brown, J.P., editor of the "Isle of Man Times."

The following appreciation, under the signature of "A London Manxman," has been sent us concerning Mr Charles Bernard Heyes :— The late Mr C. B. Heyes was an enthusiast. His aid to any cause was a surety of success. Though born in Manchester, his love for the Island and things Manx, was greater than that of many favoured to be born inside its coasts. His career was begun on the "Catholic Times," and after a short period on the "Manchester Evening News," he preceeded to the Isle of Man. After seven years in Douglas and ten in Ramsey, " C.B." came to Fleet-street in 1903, and the positions held by him speak highly of his ability and worth. These included : Managing editor of "Reynolds’ Newspaper" ; night editor in charge "Central News" ; chief sub-editor "Daily Herald" ; sub-editor "Daily Mirror " ; sub-editor and reporter, "Daily News," and reporter, "Daily Telegraph." As a shorthand writer, there were few indeed his superior. In this capacity he attended the conference of Mr Chamberland and Lord Kitchener with the Boor Generals ; the Colonial Premiers conference in London ; and the Alaska Boundary Commission.

It made even the most sensation-hardened denizen of Fleet-street halt when it became known that " C.B" had joined up " for the duration," in the early days of the Great War. But the snow-white hair crowned a frame that was made of stern stuff, and "enthusiasm for the cause" again asserted itself. And he came through it all with high commendations from all superior officers with whom he came into contact — and gained a commission.

Affairs in " The Street of Adventure" had greatly changed on his release from active war service.And so the veteran set out to again unravel the tangled skein, with the result that ere long he had established a shorthand agency, and gathered together a splendid connection.

And now he has gone ! It may be truthfully said that he died in harness, for he was at his office up to late afternoon on the day of his death.

Only the previous Saturday evening, he had charmed the April gathering of the London Manx Society with happy stories of his humorous journalistic experiences in the Island. It was remarked then how well he looked, and in what good form he was.

His coming to the Metropolis in 1900 meant a valuable addition to that early band of enthusiasts who strove, with varying success, to firmly establish a society of Manxfolk in London. His lectures, his songs, and his pen, were always at the Society’s bidding ; his enthusiasm spread to others, and kept up many a faint heart. He was one of those early workers who lived to note with pride the growth and importance of the London Manx Society, and he filled various official positions, including that of president. For several years he had been a member of the committee.

At the funeral, which took place in the Jesuit Church, Edge Hill, Wimbledon, the principal mourners were : Mrs Heyes (widow), Mrs Saunders (daughter), Miss Brown, of Douglas (sister-in-law), Mrs Walter Brown, of Douglas, Mr J. W. Ross- Brown, K-C. (brother-in-law), and Mr Cyril Brown (nephew). Among the general mourners were the following representing the Londan Manx Society : Mr William Radcliffe, Mr J. G. Crellin and Mrs Frowde (past presidents) ; Mrs Geo. Robertson, Mrs F. W. Haddy, Miss Bertha Radcliffe, Mr J. Brew Shimmin, and Mr W. S. Roses (members of the committee); Miss Annie Kaye, Mrs Wm. Radcliffe, Mr John Frowde, and Mr S. K. Bawden—another former Manx journalist, now editor of the " Kentish Mercury "—(members of the Society) ; Mr J. E. Dawson (secretary) ; and Mr D. C. Christian (Press secretary), who also represented the Central London branch committee of the National Union of Journalists. Mr J. M. Denvir, a well-known Fleet-street journalist, was also present.

ROBERT CHARLES CAIN.

Died February 8th, 1922.

Mr Robert Charles Cain, one of the leading tradesmen in the Isle of Man, died at his residence, " Glenfaba," Crosby, on Wednesday, at the age of 64. The fatal illness onily lasted a few days. Mr Cain was a native of Michael, and came to Douglas to serve his apprenticeship with the late Mr William Cannell, draper, of Duke-street, Douglas. Later on he entered the employ of Messrs Moore & Burr, drapers, and 37 years ago he set up in business for himself, having Mr E. Gelling as partner for a year or two. Mr Cain steadily built up a large business, and extended his premises until they comprised six adjoining shops—quite the largest business establishment in, the Island, and employing the largest number of assistants. He was an industrious, enterprising, courteous business man, widely known throughout the Island, and his death will occasion genuine regret. Mr Cain was a director of the Peveril Hotel, Ltd., and was interested in several other local companies.

The deceased gentleman was a widower, and leaves one son, Mr Drury Cain, and two daughters—Mrs Gelling, wife of Mr J. W. Gelling schoolmaster, Braddan, and Mrs Rigby, whose husband is a clergyman in Bristol.

WILLIAM HENRY FARGHER.

Died February 12th, 1922.

For simple sincerity and sense, for pride in his work and straightness in his dealings, the Manx country joiner who has come to town, and set up for himself in a small way, takes some beating. An admirable specimen of this type was Mr William Henry Fargher, of Walpole avenue, Douglas, who died on Feb. 12th, after having been found unconscious in his workshop the previous Monday. Mr Fargher, who was 65 years old, was born at Ballacostain, Santon, and came to Douglas about forty-five years age. For some years he worked with the late Mr R. E. Cain, and then he and his name-sake, Mr W. J. Fargher, and Mr T, Callow, set up for themselves. A few years later, each had gone his own way. Singly and in partnership, the deceased gentleman was responsible for erections in Walpole-avenue, Hutchinson-square, Duke's-road, Crosby-terrace, and elsewhere in the town. Mr Fargher was a staunch supporter of the Victoria-street Wesleyan Church, a Past Chief Ruler of the Manx Union Rechabite Tent, and an inconspicuous, but reliable member of innumerable election committees. Almost a year to the date of his death, he attended the funeral of his brother-in-law, the late Alderman Kelly, the two gentlemen having married sisters.

 

PERCIVAL CORLETT KEE.

Died January 20th, 1922,

The news of the death of the young gentleman was received with much regret, not only in Peel but in other parts of the Island. He passed away last Friday at the age of 38 years. Mr Kee lived for some years in Hull, and from thence he removed to Canada. where he engaged in business; on his own account. He joined the Canadian forces during the war, and was wounded in one arm. Upon. his discharge he came back to Peel and managed his father's watch and jewellery business in Michael-street. The deceased took an enthusiastic interest in various movements in the town both before he went away and after his return. The funeral took place on Sunday and was attended by a large concourse. Ex service men acted as bearers, and the last rites were conducted in Peel Cemetery by the Rev E. Douglas Jackson, B.A.

DR. ROBERT HAMILTON,

Died February 21st, 1922.

After a somewhat lengthy illness, Dr. Robert Hamilton, M.B., C.M., died at his, residence in Derby-road, Douglas, on February 21st. The deceased gentleman, as his name implies, was of Scotch origin, having been born at Stonehouse, Lanarkshire, and he took his degrees at Glasgow University in 1886. After practising for a number of years in Bradford, ho came to Douglas, twenty-five years ago, taking over the practice of Dr Hoops. His skill and his sympathetic manner rapidly earned for him a. great measure of public confidence, and it is probable that his unremitting devotion to his profession shortened his life. About a year ago he took into practice Dr De Morgan. Like the other medical men of the town, he itlacA his services at the disposal of Noble's Hospital, and latterly he had held the position of hon. anæsthetist to that institution, He leaves a widow, one son in Australia, and two daughters -Mrs Cubbon, wife of Mr Joseph Cubbon, bank manager, Ramsey, and Miss Hamilton, who has resided with her father.

MRS. EMMA MARIA ALLAN.

Died March 11th, 1922.

Mrs Allan, widow of Mr Richard Allan, of Alpine Cottage, Strathallan Park, passed quietly away on Saturday evening last. Since Mr Allan's death in 1899, she has lived alone, and for some time past her friends have been anxious about her condition, for she was 87 years. On the pre-vious Saturday her room was forcibly opened, and she was found unconscious at the bedside. Mr J. C. Cowley' the well-known joiner and builder, at once. took charge of her, and a neighbour (Mrs Callister) tended her with kindness and skill. She recovered consciousness for a few days before she passed away. Her interment took place on Thursday afternoon at Onchan Churchyard in the presence of a large number of people, the service being conducted by the Rev. R. Wakeford, M.A.

Mrs Allan was very well known owing to her long residence in Onchan. Her husband and she came to the Island about 60 years ago, and settled in Ramsey, afterwards removing to Onchan, where Mr Allan died as above, in 1899. She was of Moravian extraction, and was a relative of Bishop Latrobe, and way very proud of her connection with that body of Christians. She was very intimate with the late Lord Raglan, and Lady Raglan, who will be very sorry to hear of Mrs Allan's death.

CAPTAIN ALEXANDER REID.

Died March 17th, 1922.

The death occurred at 9 Belmont-terrace, Douglas, this morning (Friday) of Capt. Alex. Reid, senior captain of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's fleet. Capt. Reid started life as a sailor, but his qualities were quickly recognised, and finally he became captain of the Empress Queen. His wife pre-deceased him a few weeks ago.

JAMES HEGINBOTHAM NORRIS.

Died March 26th, 1922.

At Port Erin Wesleyan Church on Sunday evening, reference warn made to the late Mr Jas. H. Norris, of "Rosemere," who passed away on the previous Wednesday. Appropriate hymns were sung, and the Dead March from 'Saul' was played by the organist (Miss Gladys McArd). The interment took place at Manchester, on Saturday last, and as a mark of respect for the deceased an artificial wreath was sent by the congregation of Port Erin. At the Sunday service, Mr James S. Kermode said:-

" It is with the deepest regret, as a church, we mourn the loss of one of our most devoted members, by death, in Mr James H. Norris. Though known to us for the comparatively short time of about 10 years, one can truly say he was loved by all who came in contact with him. Quiet and unassuming by nature a man of few words, Mr Norris has by his devoted life and Christ-like character helped many to realise the peace that is found in Christ Jesus. Previous to his coming to reside in Port Erin he lived in Didsbury, where for almost 50 years he rendered invaluable service to the Wesleyan Methodist Church, holding almost every office open for a layman, both in church work land Sunday school work. On identifying himself with our church, one would have thought our deceased brother would have felt he should take things easy in his latter days, but such was not his spirit. As long as God gave him health and strength, he was prepared to do his work; up to about three years ago he was a member of the choir, taking a great interest in music. Such interest was evidenced by his presenting to the Trustees, the music hymn books which the choir now sing from. For some years he was chapel steward and treasurer ; and who can ever forget the zeal and enthusiasm he put into our Wesley Guild work? He was always ready to take part in discussion, and in the "socials" he was the leading light. Many of the glees we sing will always remind us of our dear brother departed, for in spirit he was as young as the youngest Guilder. Many of his good deeds are known, probably a larger number are only known to those who benefited; the speaker could tell of many instances, where Mr Norris consulted him privately about many people (even outside our church) and asked him to take money and articles of clothing and food to them. A most regular attender at our church (until his health broke down-even as recently as Sunday, February 19th), his presence will be missed, but his spirit still lives. He will be remembered by all who knew him for his cheerful disposition and kindly heart, uprightness of character, simplicity of faith and earnestness of purpose. During his last illness he witnessed a bright and good confession, nobly completing a life which was in every sense " a sacrifice of praise." He was converted when a young man, and we who knew him ay a visitor to Port Erin, before he came to reside amongst us always recognised in him a Christian of the highest standard, always with his family remaining to the Sunday prayer-meeting and to the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper. He has now passed into the 'higher service,' leaving a cherished memory of a consecrated life devoted to the service of the Master. May we who are left behind be determined to take up the mantle to carry on his good work. To his sorrowing family of five daughters and two sons, as a church we offer up our prayers that in their sorrow grace may be given to them to sustain and strengthen them."

RICHARD ASHBURNER.

Died March 3rd. 1922

Mr Richard Ashburner, one of the pioneers of shipbuilding in Barrow, passed away on March 3rd, at the age of 85 years. The late Mr Ashburner, with his father and family, left the Isle of Man when very young, and resided in Barrow ever since. Along with his brothers, the late Alderman Ashburner and Mr Wm. Ashburner (ex Councillor of Douglas, and president of the Barrow Manx Society), he worked in his father's shipbuilding yard, where many wooden coasting vessels were constructed. The deceased became designer to his father, and for many years he and his brother owned a fleet of coasting craft. This industry was discontinued many years ago, to be followed by other and larger shipbuilding enterprises. Mr Ashburner had been living in retirement for 10 or 12 years. He leaves a widow and two sons, one being a captain in the Mercantile Marine, while another is a chaplain in the Church of England. The deceased was a grandson of the late Mr Thomas Kaighin, Lhergydhoo, German, and a relative of Mrs W. K. Palmer, Peel.

THOMAS STEPHEN KEIG.

Died April 4th, 1922

After an illness extending over many weeks, Mr T. S. Keig, Captain of the Parish of Ballaugh, died at his residence, Ballamona, Ballaugh, on April 4th. Mr Keig was in his 57th year, and was a son of the late Mr Thomas Keig, of Ballamona, who was also Captain of the Parish in his day. In the year 1902, Mr Keig was appointed Captain of the Parish of Jurby, and in 1913, on the death of Mr J. C. Crellin, he was given a similar office in his native parish. He took an active part in political discussions in the sheading of Michael, and he performed the various social duties of his office zealously and capably. He was one of the first-elected members of the Central Education Authority, and he only resigned his seat on that body in March, in consequence of his ill-health. When the Governor appointed a commission to report upon the establishment of a National Health Insurance scheme in the Isle of Man, Mr Keig, who had previously shown considerable interest in this topic, was appointed a member. He was an influential agriculturist, and had been a director of the Farmers’ Combine, Ltd. He is survived by a widow (formerly Miss Crellin, of the Friary, Arbory) and one daughter, Miss Isabel Keig.

HENRY ELIJAH FIELDING.

HENRY ELIJAH FIELDING

Died April 5th, 1922.

General regret will be felt at the news of the death of Mr Henry Elijah Fielding ex-schoolmaster, which occurred on April 5th, after a long illness. Mr Fielding, who was 65 years old, was a son of the late Mr James Rae Fielding, of Douglas, and served as a pupil teacher under the late Mr Henry Nicholls at St George’s School, Douglas. He subsequently went to a training college in Yorkshire, and in 1878 returned to become headmaster of his old school. In 1888, he was appointed to what was then Drumgold-street temporary school, and on the completion, shortly afterwards, of the Hanover-street Board School, he was appointed to take charge of it. Similarly, when the Demesne-road school for boys was erected, he was placed in command, and he retired in September of 1920. Mr Fielding was a great favourite among his professional colleagues, and among his scholars, and he had many social gifts which gained for him a widespread popularity. He was a successful conductor of children’s choirs, a prominent athlete, and a Past Grand of the Victoria Lodge of Oddfellows,

WILLIAM CALLISTER.

Died August 11th 1922.

" The Brooklyn Daily Eagle," New York, in its issue of August 22nd, records the death on the 11th of that month of Mr William Callister, one of the oldest residents of Queen’s Village, in his 92nd year-Mr Callister was born in Jurby, Isle of Man, in 1831, and was the son of Thomas Callister and Jane Mylechraine of that place.

Prior to 1849 he resided at the Ivy Bridge, Michael, Isle of Man. In that year he emigrated to America and joined his brother, Thomas Callister, who founded the wagon and motor-car business now carried on by J. T. & W. L. Callister, sons of William, Jamaica Avenue and Jericho Turnpike. Queens. He visited the Island in 1864 and in 1865 was married there to Jane Mylrea, who survives him.

Mr Callister retired from active business in 1896 and had acquired considerable wealth. He was a resident of Queens for about 71 years Surviving him, besides his wife, are two daughters and three sons.


 

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