Did you ever wonder about the man behind the name P. M. C. Kermode? This plaque commemorates Philip Moore Callow Kermode. He was a Manx antiquarian, historian, and naturalist.
P. M. C. Kermode was born in Ramsey on the Isle of Man. His birth date was March 21, 1855. He significantly contributed to Manx history and archaeology.
Kermode’s sister was Josephine Kermode. She was a Manx poet who wrote under the name “Cushag”. Neither P. M. C. Kermode nor Josephine married. Josephine cared for him throughout his life. He attended King William’s College near Castletown. Later, he was admitted to the Manx Bar in 1878.
He helped found the Manx Society in 1858. He also helped found the Isle of Man Natural History and Antiquarian Society in 1879. P. M. C. Kermode became president of the latter in 1884. In 1922, he became the first director of the Manx Museum.
P. M. C. Kermode was known for his seriousness. He worked hard on inscriptions on Manx crosses. He also wrote several books about Manx history.
Kermode advocated for the investigation of round mounds. These were archaeological earthworks at risk. He believed the society should protect the island’s heritage. Today, we recognize these values as good heritage protection policy.
His dream of a Manx Museum came true in 1922. He had the honor of being its first director. While director, he conducted a wide range of research. He helped shape the direction of the museum and the society. He played a key role in establishing research on the island.
P. M. C. Kermode is best known for cataloging Manx Crosses. His illustrations of crosses are held by the museum.
P. M. C. Kermode died on September 5, 1932. He died at his home in Douglas. He was buried at Maughold Church.
A memorial to P. M. C. Kermode was unveiled in 1943. It stands in Maughold Church. A memorial tablet is at his birthplace in Ramsey. It was unveiled in October 1950. This P. M. C. Kermode Plaque we stand before is a testament to his lasting impact. His work continues to inspire those interested in Manx history.