John Moore Jeffcott

John Moore Jeffcott QC (1817 – 17 May 1892) was a Manx advocate who became High Bailiff of Castletown and a Member of the House of Keys for the constituency of Castletown.

Biography Early life Descended from both an old Irish family of high connections as well as an old and respected Manx family, John Moore Jeffcott was born in Castletown, Isle of Man in 1817. His father had been a surgeon in the Royal Navy, who following his discharge settled in the south of the Island. Jeffcott's mother was a daughter of the Reverend John Moore, Vicar of Braddan, and a niece of a Manx Deemster. He received his education at Castletown Grammar School and King William's College, being one of the first pupils at that school. Throughout his life Jeffcott had an intense fondness of nature and botany. He was a keen artist, often taking his sketch book with him on his numerous nature walks. In addition he had a strong passion for antiquarian research, being regarded as a competent geologist and archaeologist. In 1878 he became Chairman of the Archaeological Association and in that capacity he became heavily involved in a report concerning the archaeology of the Isle of Man. Another work of eminence was his delineation of the character and description of the unique Meayll Stone Circle on Mull Hill and in addition he was highly knowledgeable regarding other historic sites particularly those on Cronk ny Arrey Laa. He was also said to be a keen angler and hunter.

In July 1850 Jeffcott purchased land on the western side of Castletown and on which he constructed his family home, Crofton. It would appear Jeffcott fell on hard times, for in October 1885 he and his wife entered into a deed which assigned and conveyed their real estate to trustees, to be sold to satisfy charges upon it. In respect of Crofton, Jeffcott and his wife entered into another deed of bond and security on a mortgage for £200. The deed contained a provision that if other properties within the deed realised sufficient funds to satisfy the amount outstanding, then Crofton would not be put up for sale and would be retained by the Jeffcotts. Unfortunately this was not the case and on February 5, 1886, the property was sold at auction. Today Crofton is a listed building.

Death During the latter part of 1891 Jeffcott began to suffer from declining health. His health continued to worsen into 1892 and he died at his home on May 17.

Funeral John Moore Jeffcott's funeral took place at St Mary's Church, Castletown on May 20, 1892. Numerous dignitaries including various Members of the House of Keys and members of the judiciary were in attendance. The funeral service was conducted by the Reverend H.S. Gill. Following the service the body was interred in the churchyard of Kirk Arbory.