Leyland Line Brass Buttons: Why a "Fouled Anchor"?

[Harland Duzen]

Apologies if this isn't the right thread to ask such an odd question (This has nothing to do with the Californian).

I've noticed that Brass Buttons on Leyland Line Officers coats have the relief image of an "Fouled Anchor" on them. Considering some superstitions or beliefs that some feel can be unlucky for a ship, can anyone explain why such an image was used?

(Photo above taken from Greenwich Maritime Museum)

 

[Doug Criner]

I didn't know that a fouled anchor represented a superstitious belief. Cap devices in the U.S. Navy have fouled anchors.

 

[Harland Duzen]

It doesn't (as far as I know), I'm just assuming. It just seemed a bit odd to me that having a fouled anchor would be used as an logo since having that actually happen to a ship would be a bit of a inconvenience or hindrance.

Actually a quick check on Google shows this quote from another thread, which makes some sense (not entirely sure if fully accurate:

"The fouled anchor is thought to symbolise steadfastness and hope in tribulation, and has long been used as a christian symbol."

 

[Rob Lawes]

Anchors are used in the Royal Navy on the badges for the ranks of Leading Hand, Petty Officer and Chief Petty Officer, they've always been fouled as long as I know. All of mine certainly were. I know a fair amount of nautical history and have never heard of it being an unlucky symbol.

 

[Harland Duzen]

That makes a lot of sense now, Thank you both.

Also Google again shows Cunard White Star and the Aberdeen White Star Line Officer's Button's also using a Fouled Anchor.

(Photos not mine.)

 

[Harland Duzen]

Just to let anyone know that is interested / looking for present ideas , a Leyland-Line Brass Button is for sale on Ebay:

LEYLAND LINE SHIPPING COMPANY BUTTON | eBay

__________________________
Edit + Small Print: If brought for someone else, positive and/or peaceful reaction to such a gift is not assured. Terms and conditions apply.

 

[Rob Lawes]

Oooh [HASHTAG]#excited[/HASHTAG]. I'd love to see the loving look in my wife's eyes as she opened a box with that in it on Xmas day.

The next sound I'd hear would be the ambulance siren as I'm rushed to A and E to have my balls surgically stuck back on.

 

[Harland Duzen]

Sorry Rob, I was thinking more for anyone with nautical tastes...