wasabiroots
6. Klabautermann
They came from a German folklore and are like the brownies but rather than helping in the houses they help and assist sailors or fishermen on the Baltic and North Sea. They are diligent in helping around the ship and would sing occasionally.
They are said to specifically come from an unbaptized child that died and buried outside of the churchyard. Then only if a tree grows on top of the grave and that particular tree is used to construct a boat or ship will the Klabautermann be born.
So, their image varies but often seen as about 2 feet tall, wears a sailor type of attire, has a tobacco pipe and often carries a caulking hammer. Though on rare occasions they are said to be in the nude.
They are harmless and quite useful rather but if a Klabautermann is seen, it usually means that the ship is or will be doomed beyond repair. Just like that time with Going Merry in One Piece.