Isle of Man

an island of the United Kingdom. It is situated near the center of the Irish Sea. The area is 220 square miles; the population 54,758. The island is mountainous, the chief peaks rising to a height of 2,000 feet. Portions of the shore are precipitous. Other portions afford harbors for a large fishing fleet. Douglas, the largest town, has a population of 15,719. The island is granitic, with upper strata of limestone which by weathering create soil of fertility. The valleys and lowlands are in a state of high cultivation. The inhabitants are called Manx. They are a Celtic people allied to the Welsh and Irish. Owing to intercourse with England and the establishment of English schools, the native language is almost extinct. Acts of Parliament do not bind Man, unless specifically mentioned. The administration is in the hands of a governor and council. Local legislation is entrusted to the House of Keys of twenty-four members. It is thought to be the oldest legislative body in existence. Its acts are proclaimed from the Tynewald, an elevated spot where the Manx have been wont to meet for centuries for the purpose. There are two judges, known as deemsters. There are frogs, but not snakes on the island. Hares, rabbits, red-legged crows, grouse, snipe, waterfowl, and rock-pigeons abound. The Manx cat, with a short, rabbit-like tail, is common. The chief productions of Man are lead, tin, black marble, horses, cattle, sheep, cloth, nets, twine, rope, and boots. Fisheries of herring, cod, and mackerel employ many boats and men. The island is a favorite summer resort, the season lasting from May to September. Popular interest has been aroused through Hall Caine's novels, The Deemster, The Manxman, etc.

Isotherms. SEE CLIMATE.