driving force, Jeffcott had a substantial influence in the moulding of legislation at a critical period in the history of the Isle of Man, notably in the reform movement which led to the settlement of 1866. Another instance of Jeffcott's service concerned the construction of major works at Douglas Harbour. During the mid 1860s the development of the Port of Douglas was an issue which was said to agitate the entire Island. As a member of the Harbour Board Jeffcott was directly involved with the works proposed by John Coode. Jeffcott retired from politics in 1882. Personal life John Jeffcott married Lucy Mylrea of Orrisdale in the parish Michael. The marriage produced seven children, five daughters and two sons. His elder son, also named John Jeffcott, became an engineer in Vancouver, British Columbia, in the service of the Pacific Steam Navigation Company. His other son, William Lowther Jeffcott, predeceased him in 1877. 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. In addition he also wrote a guide to the mysteries of Castle Rushen. 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