Who was Ned Maddrell?

About Ned Maddrell

One of the most moving chapters in the story of Manx is the life of Ned Maddrell (1877–1974). He grew up when Manx was still spoken in everyday life, and by the end of his life he had become the last native speaker. For many, his passing seemed to mark the end of the language.

But instead, it became a turning point. Recordings of Ned’s voice, and the efforts of learners inspired by him, sparked the revival movement that continues to this day. Thanks to that movement, children are once again growing up with Manx, and a living community of speakers is slowly taking root again.

Our course aims to be helping this cause. Language is a part of culture and if a language is lost, so is that part of the culture. We at Verboly absolutely love languages, so of course we want to help preserve it.