Thank you to Clifford, Grant and Stan for the response to my Goodchild shipbuilders. So far, I can see no connection to the other shipbuilding families It was John Goodchild (b. 1699) who started the business. He built Pallion Hall as a residence for his son John, who carried on the ship buiding, and limestone quarry business. He was a partner in the Wear Bank which folded owing to dishonesty and fraud by two of his partners, and he sold all his assets, even his gold watch to pay the investors. Stan, there were lots of Ralphs and I think the one you mentioned was born 1644 and a different branch of the family. I found George's site very interesting and intend to go back and spend some time perusing it. If I ever do find evidence we are linked I will certainly be in touch. Again, many thanks for the interest. Always eager for little titbits !! Marilyn, Canada also researching: Strickland, Knott, Cairns Stokoe(Durham), Bolam, Storey(Northumberland) >