Woodland Cemetery, Des Moines, Iowa
The representation of the Virtue of Hope is a fairly common symbol found in American cemeteries. It can be found on zinc monuments as a bas-relief and as a full statue carved in marble or granite on stone markers. Hope is portrayed as a woman leaning against an anchor. The anchor is an ancient Christian symbol that has been found in early catacomb burials. The anchor was used by early Christians as a disguised cross. The anchor also served as a symbol of Christ and his anchoring influence in the lives of Christians. Just as an anchor does not let a moored boat drift, the anchoring influence of Christ does not allow the Christian life to drift.
Woodland Cemetery, Des Moines, Iowa
Gravely Speaking 
Now, can this same symbolism be used to explain the choice of title for “Anchor” standards? as sources of hope, as safeguards against drifting?
Maybe so, I hadn’t thought about that application.
I always assumed it was a reference to Christ as a fisher of men, as well. Thanks for giving me more to think about.