Journal of William Gill
Date(s): 1817-1818
Scope & Content: Written as a journal of spiritual reflection, Gill describes his plan for spiritual growth based on rising early (4 or 5 am) and a timetable of study (Latin, Hebrew and Greek, Manx, and mathematics), scripture reading and journal writing. He records his difficulty with the plan and his efforts to moderate his eating and sleeping (including a vegetarian diet). Gill notes that in his earlier days he had wanted to go to sea but now intends a career in the church. He weighs the pros and cons of a missionary career. There are references to his occasionally assisting his father in Customs House business, his acquaintances and visits including being introduced to the Douglas library (page 224, February 1818).
Gill records his attendance at many church services and the names of others present, his participation in the setting up of a Bible Society in Ballaugh and attendance at some Methodist meetings: he expresses concern that the Methodists might secede from the Manx Church. Social events are recounted including a pancake evening, the 'old custom of the ring and sixpence' and games such as Blind Man's Buff.
Occasionally Gill writes in shorthand code, for instance on pages 246-247 and 253.
Administration / Biographical History: William Gill was born on 30 July 1798 and was baptised on 3 September in Kirk German. His parents were Henry Gill, Customs Officer and Harbour Master at Peel and Marcia Corlett, daughter of the Vicar of German, Henry Corlett . Gill became an Anglican deacon in 1820 and held positions as Chaplain of St John's, German 1820-1824, Curate of Ballaugh 1824-1827 and then priest in charge of Malew, becoming Vicar from 1830 until his death in 1871. He was buried on 21 October 1871 in Malew churchyard.
The Gills were from Kennaa, German since the 1500s. William was the uncle of William Henry Gill (1839-1923) and John Frederick Gill (1842 -1899).
Language: English
Extent: 1 volume
Item name: journal
Collection: Manuscript Archive
Level: ITEM
ID number: MS 02203
Retrieval number: MS 02203 A
Record class: Private
Access conditions: No regulations or restrictions are implemented on this material. Advance notification of a research visit is advisable by emailing library@mnh.gov.im