Arthur Webster Newell

Who was Arthur Webster Newell?

Arthur Webster Newell was a prominent American banker and first-class passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born on January 30, 1854, in Chelsea, Massachusetts, Newell rose from humble beginnings to become the chairman of the Fourth National Bank in Boston. Known for his astute business acumen, unwavering integrity, and devotion to his family, Newell’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 58 (fifty-eight) when he perished in the Titanic disaster on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Career

A Young Man of Promise

Arthur Webster Newell was born the only child of Benjamin and Susan (Bennett) Newell. Raised in Chelsea’s public schools, young Arthur displayed an early aptitude for academics and a strong work ethic. At a tender age, he embarked on his professional journey, starting as a clerk in a Boston bank.

Rapid Rise in Banking

Newell’s intelligence and dedication did not go unnoticed. He quickly advanced to become a bookkeeper at the Fourth National Bank of Boston. His keen understanding of the banking industry, coupled with his reliability and accuracy, propelled him through the ranks. In 1879, at the age of 25 (twenty-five), Newell achieved a significant milestone when he was appointed the bank’s chief cashier.

Family Life and Personal Characteristics

A Man of Principle

Arthur Newell was known for his direct approach and high regard for truth. His daughter Marjorie later remarked on her father’s “inner clarity of spirit,” which made him an excellent judge of character. While some found him austere, those close to him recognized a deeply affectionate and sensitive man beneath the stern exterior.

The Newell Family

On October 11, 1877, Arthur married his childhood sweetheart, Mary Greeley. The couple went on to have three daughters:

Madeleine (born October 10, 1880)
Alice (born 1882)
Marjorie (born February 12, 1889)

As his career flourished, Newell moved his family to Lexington, Massachusetts in 1888, purchasing a large home that he transformed into a gentleman’s farm.

A Musical Household

The Newell home was known for its musical gatherings. Arthur played the cello, his wife the piano, and all three daughters were accomplished violinists. These Sunday afternoon concerts became a cherished family tradition and a source of delight for the local community.

Professional Success and Community Involvement

Chairman of the Fourth National Bank

In 1897, Arthur Newell’s career reached its pinnacle when he was elected chairman of the Fourth National Bank. Under his leadership, the bank thrived in the heart of Boston’s financial district.

Civic Engagement

Beyond his professional life, Newell was an active member of the Hancock Congregational Church. His deep religious convictions and dedication to the community made him a respected figure in Lexington.

The Fateful Titanic Journey

A Middle Eastern Adventure

In 1912, Arthur Newell decided to take his family on a trip to the Middle East. A student of the Bible, he was eager to visit Egypt and the Holy Land. While his wife Mary and daughter Alice remained at home, Newell embarked on this journey with his daughters Madeleine and Marjorie.

Boarding the Titanic

After three months of travel, the Newells boarded the RMS Titanic in Cherbourg, France, for their return journey to the United States. They were assigned first-class accommodations:

Mr. Newell: Cabin D-48
Madeleine and Marjorie: Shared stateroom D-36

Their ticket number was 35273, and it cost £113 6s (equivalent to about £13,000 or $16,000 today).

The Night of the Disaster

On the night of April 14, 1912, when the Titanic struck the iceberg, Arthur Newell calmly led his daughters to the boat deck. In a poignant moment, he placed them in a lifeboat (possibly number 6 or 8), uttering his last words to Marjorie:

“It does seem more dangerous for you to get into that boat than to remain here with me here but we must obey orders.”

Arthur Newell did not survive the sinking. His daughters last saw him helping other women into lifeboats.

Legacy and Remembrance

Recovery and Burial

Arthur Newell’s body was recovered by the Mackay-Bennett, identified as body No. 122. The description noted:

NO. 122 MALE. ESTIMATED AGE, 60. GREY IMPERIAL & MOUSTACHE CLOTHING - Black suit; white shirt; black boots EFFECTS - Gold watch and chain; signet ring; gold cuff links; solitaire diamond ring; fountain pen; keys; knife; four gold studs; 8s. in silver; 6 pounds; 103 francs; $2.96; letter case containing $31.00; cheque for $35.00; diary; pocket book with initials “A.W.N.”; His business card with name and address.

He was laid to rest at Mount Auburn Cemetery in Cambridge, Massachusetts, following a funeral at the Newell home on May 4, 1912.

The Family’s Grief

Mrs. Newell never fully recovered from the loss of her husband. She lived the rest of her life in mourning, sleeping with Mr. Newell’s watch under her pillow every night. She passed away in November 1957 at the remarkable age of 103 (one hundred and three).

Arthur Webster Newell’s life exemplified the American dream of his era - rising from modest beginnings to achieve great success through hard work and integrity. His tragic death aboard the Titanic serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of historical events on individual families.