Many of the convicts had tattoos
usually on their upper arms and symbols such as hearts, anchors and crosses
were popular. The anchor was a symbol of hope and constancy and initials of
loved ones were placed nearby. Other tattoos included the date of trial, name
of transport ship and date of release. Black soot from lamps was used to tone
the design of the tattoo. These distinguishing marks were usually included in
the detailed reports written by the authorities describing the physical
appearance of the convicts.
In 1849, James Johnson, (Guildford 1827) the ex-convict
father-in-law of Thomas Gough, was arrested at Sutton Forest for the theft of
some bags of sugar (about 450 kilos) worth 20 pounds sterling and a tarpaulin worth 4 pounds sterling, from a
carrier's dray parked outside Field's pub, and was imprisoned in Goulburn jail.
His jail entrance report describes his tattoos in detail.
left arm: mermaid; a woman and
child; sun, moon and seven stars; 1827
right arm: S.J.-M.J.-J.J. tree;
E.S.J. anchor; J.J.-W.J. and a bird
Any ideas on these tattoo symbols?
The family initials? 1827 was his date of arrival but what was the meaning of
the sun, moon and stars? Were they just decorative? Feel free to add your comment.
Source: SRNSW Gaol Description
& Entrance Books 1818 -1930
series 2229; item;6/5430; reel 1875
