> some chantey lists charting the earliest appearance in print of each chantey upto about 1900.

Steve, I've been doing the same thing! Material (mostly snatches) from U.S. newspapers as far back as 1860s.

Email me your lists and I'll see if I can add anything.

Gibb, if you're out there, same message to you.

Gargoyle, not humble - tactful.