Cap worn by Illiam Dhone (William Christian)

Date made: 17th century

Description: The cap is reputed to have belonged to Illiam Dhone (William Christian) who commanded the Manx Militia during the English Civil War.

The cap is of fawn material, decorated with applique work in silver braid, in the form of loops and stylised flowers. It bears a strong resemblance to a cap worn by Christian in the only known portrait of him.

William Christian is the most iconic figure in Manx political history. As the Earl of Derby's most trusted lieutenant, he was charged with the defence of the Isle of Man against Parliamentary forces. Yet, in 1651 he negotiated the surrender of the Island against the wishes of the Earl's widow, in exchange for certain guarantees. Regarded as a traitor by the Derby family, after the restoration he was tried and executed. In recent years however he has been reconstructed as a Manx patriot by nationalist elements, and the site of his death at Hango Hill is now the location for an annual nationalist gathering.

Object name: cap

Collection: Costume & Textiles Collection

ID Number: 1963-0062

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