Hi Helgra
Yes it is interesting, found a paper on line that explains ' reading the bodies of seafarers.' They wrote all their cultural, political and personal convictions via the way of tattoos during long days at sea on their arms and chests. They did have meaning to them.
http://matrix.msu.edu/hst/hst202/docs/newman_essay.pdf It definiently confirms the tats were made by mariners who were at sea a long time. The anchors etc, Liberty written was common, for when they went to shore !
You could also google wikipedia on Cape Horn....the ship in full sail was their pride and joy, for those who achieved it. Their committment to the American Coat of Arms is interesting, even though I have the idea they were British, perhaps Mercantile Navy. Court Martial in England. Perhaps the parents emigrated to the US early on.
I was hoping some of the clever miltary guys on the site could help find more about Madras.......the place or the ship...they are very knowledgable about navy and military and court martials.
Not like some of us girls.........
Anyway, every little helps.
regards
jud
