The anchor also represents the anchoring influence of Christ. Some say it was used as a sort of disguised cross. The anchor also serves as a symbol for seamanship and may mark the grave of a seaman, or be used as a tribute to St. Nicholas, patron saint of seamen. And anchor with a broken chain symbolizes the cessation of life.
Anchor
From Kimberly Powell, About.com
The anchor was regarded in ancient times as a symbol of safety and was adopted by Christians as a symbol of hope and steadfastness.
The engravings stand out sharply on this zinc tombstone in Malta Ridge Cemetery in Saratoga County, New York.
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