answersLogoWhite

0

It appears that the 'crossing the line' ceremony was started during early sailing days. this would be around the 17th century or so. There is documentation of ceremonies at the equator in the log books of French ships as early as the 1500's century. As the trade routes and funding of expeditions to foreign lands caused European ships to regularly cross the equator, the ceremony evolved. There were religious observances of Thanksgiving in the early years. Even FDR was served summons to appear before King Neptune when traveling to Malta during WW 2. US Navy ships continue to observe the tradition, though with avoidance of any permanent damage to the participants. Which is good, believe this Shellback!

User Avatar

Wiki User

17y ago

What else can I help you with?