In a message dated 8/8/2006 3:43:08 P.M. Pacific Standard Time, [log in to unmask] writes: Here is my query: What do we know about Huck Finn's father and mother, beyond the obvious?? Any speculations? Or even names (besides Pap, for instance)?? I could look it up in the various places that provide all of this sort of arcane info, of course, but none of those texts are readily available. Woodson Blankenship - head of the family, from S. Carolina. Worked at the old sawmill, drank heavily. 1845 tax delinquent rolls for 29c. Oldest son, Benson, called Bence, did odd jobs but mostly teased Sam Clemens and mates. Tom Blankenship, the younger brother, was the model for Huck Finn. The Blankenship girls were rumored to be into prostitution. (Wecter) Mark Twain A toZ, Rasmussen gives the wife's name as Mahala Blankenship, eight children, all born in Missouri. Hope this helps. David H Fears