I am researching the Parkin family who were keel owners in the 1800s and from Lincolnshire. They worked on the River Trent, Humber, South Yorkshire Navigation and even ventured out into the North Sea. Two known boats are 'River Hoop' and 'Batchelor'. There were tragedies in the Parkin family with Jonathan Parkin drowning off Spurn Point in 1843. Then in 1877 brothers Vause (the landlord of the White Horse Inn at Susworth) and Jonathan drowned in the River Trent as they took part in a regatta. The regatta was part of Burringham Feast. 5 boats (keels) started. One other boat filled with water and another tippled over, this was due to bad weather conditions and all boats 'having too much canvas'. There were no other casualties. Jonathan, who died in 1843, was the uncle of Vause and Jonathan. It is believed that the name Vause comes from an female ancestors surname. The Parkins lived at Burton Stather, Burringham, Susworth and other Lincolnshire villages in that area. Has anyone come across the Parkins whilst carrying out research? Can anyone give me ideas as to where I may find the names of other keels belonging to the Parkins, if any? Thanks Helen