[KEEL sb.2] One who works on a keel or barge.

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1516.  Patent Roll 8 Hen. VIII., Pt. 1, m. 15–16 (P. R. O.). The craftes of … Porters, Kelemen, Sclatters.

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1592.  Wills & Inv. N. C. (Surtees, 1860), 251. Henrie Robinsone of the towne of Newcastell-upon-Tyne, keillman.

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1695.  Lond. Gaz., No. 3193/3. Newcastle, June, 12…. The Keel Men are gone to work again.

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1774.  Wesley, Wks. (1872), IV. 21. In the morning I preached at the Ballast-Hills among the glassmen, keelmen, and sailors.

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1824.  Southey, Sir T. More (1831), II. 56. It has become a place of colliers and keelmen.

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