Robert Waterman--where in England?

Hi,

I'm a direct descendant of Robert Waterman and Elizabeth Bourne of Marshfield, MA.

As anyone who has explored this message board knows, there are conflicting accounts of the Watermans' origins in England. The tradition in my family is that (if I remember this correctly) Robert was the son of Thomas; that he was from Norwich, Norfolk, England; but that the family had deep, earlier roots in Wales. I am aware of the alternate tradition that the family was from Kent (this inferred, I think, from the Bournes' origins). Both accounts, from what I understand, are basically unconfirmed--i.e. undocumented. I would not be at all surprised if several other theories existed. It's a frustrating situation.

Can anyone provide me with some clarification, or at least more information? What do we know for sure? Where are we from, originally?

My hope, ultimately, is to travel to the city (or cities) of my ancestors, in Britain.

I would be very grateful for any help you can provide. Thank you.

Best,
Stuart Waterman