Parker D. Robbins, a descendant of the first inhabitants of the Chowan River, wore many hats: mechanic, farmer, Union Army Sgt. Major, North Carolina state representative, postmaster, inventor, sawmill owner, steamboat builder and operator. A native of Gates County and a resident of Bertie and Hertford Counties, Robbins was granted two patents in the 1870’s while serving as postmaster of Harrellsville. Chowan Discovery Group intends to replicate working models of the invention of this remarkable man.