On 31/07/14 22:34, Doctor John wrote:
> IIRC those are called (in English) leeboards. The boats look much like
> Thames sailing barges with some differences. The leeboards have much the
> same effect as daggerboards but having two (one either side of the
> barge), independently controlled, facilitates sharp turns. Remember
> these are (or were) working vessels and often worked in close proximity
> to one another.
> 

just thought of another reason. The barges used tidal waters. If you
were above the low-water mark when the tide went out, the barge would
settle on the mud and then list over to one side or the other. If you
lowered both leeboards, they would help to keep her upright and thus
prevent the shifting of cargo.

John
-- 
Protect the Earth
It was not given to you by your parents
You hold it in trust for your children

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