Captain Edward J. Smith. Lost

Edward J. Smith, master of the Titanic, was making his final crossing as captain of a White Star vessel. From his home in Hanley, Stoke-On-Kent, England, Smith made his way to Liverpool at age 14, signing on a merchent clipper.

White Star hired him on in 1880 as first officer of the Celtic and he became captain of the Republic in 1887. He eventually became a favorite of many, and came to be known as the millionaires captain.

He lived in Southampton with his wife Elenor. The two one daughter, Helen.

Critisized by some for driving his ship too fast and failing to provide adequate lifeboat drills, Smith met his end on the Titanic. Although his final moments have been debated, the most reasonable discription comes from the transcripts of the enquiries. He was witnessed being washed from the bridge area by the wave which swept aft as the ship went down.