Exhibition marking anniversary of death of Port Erin's greatest benefactors

'Milner: The Man and The Tower' on now

An exhibition marking the 150th anniversary of the death of Port Erin benefactor William Milner has opened at the Rushen Heritage Centre.

It’s drawn from the 2021 exhibition of the same name, 'Milner: The Man and The Tower, which marked the 150th anniversary of the building of Milner tower.

A renowned safe-maker William Milner was born in Sheffield but moved to the Island in 1860.

He became heavily involved in life within Port Erin - building the cottages on St Catherine’s Terrace to house poor fishermen, along with the Falcon’s Nest, the village’s first major hotel.

He was also instrumental in the building of the new breakwater, which was completed in 1864, but was destroyed by storms two decades later.

After his death on 30 September 1874 Milner’s estate funded the building of St Catherine’s Church, in Port Erin, in memory of his wife Jane.

Over the years Milner Tower has become one of the most iconic – and most photographed – landmarks on the Island.

The new version of the exhibition has been curated by Rushen Heritage Trust volunteers Julia Vanderpump and Christa Viohl.

Julia said: “The 2021 exhibition held at St Catherine’s Church Hall was a huge success and we wanted to revisit the story of Milner and his philanthropy to coincide with the 150^th anniversary of his death at the end of September.

“This will give those who couldn’t visit the exhibition three years ago the opportunity to learn about Milner’s life and the legacy he left behind.”

Also returning for the duration of the exhibition is Milner Tower Ale which was first produced by Bushy’s Brewery for the 2021 exhibition.

Christa said: “The ale proved to be a popular drink three years ago and we are delighted that Martin and the team at Bushy’s agreed to bring it back to coincide with this exhibition.

“The Bay Hotel, which Martin owns, on Port Erin promenade is only 10 years younger than Milner Tower, so it’s fitting that you can sit at The Bay and enjoy a pint of the ale while looking out across to the tower on Bradda Head.”

The exhibition will be on display until 5 October.