Maritime Tattoo History

The history of maritime tattoos harks back to Captain’s Cook’s explorations. C.W. Eldridge, curator and researcher of the Tattoo Archive in Winston-Salem, N.C., will share his knowledge of the history of maritime tattoos in a free, illustrated virtual program for the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth May 31 at 7 p.m. Eldridge will delve into the storytelling symbolism, common motifs, tattoo tools and masters that comprise the art of nautical tattoos. The Tattoo Archive is a working shop and online seller of tattoo collectibles from around the world. The archive also houses tattoo books and a nonprofit research center for preserving tattoo history.

This program is offered free through a donation from the Mass Humanities and Mass Cultural Council but registration is required through the historical society website, www.hsoy.org/events.