The Smuggling Trade

A brief introduction to the once vast smuggling trade which existed on the Isle of Man. The island acted as a store house during the 1700's when high duties created a very lucrative and risky trade between Ireland, England, Scotland, and America due to the low duty charged by the Lord of Mann. Tea, brandy, rum, tobacco and silk as well as other items were all sought after for the best price. After 1765 the island's right to set its own duty was transferred to the English Crown. I t seemed smuggling might end, but it was not to be and the trade continued through other external ports.