Blanche Greenfield

Who was Mrs Blanche Greenfield?

Mrs Blanche Greenfield was a 45-year-old American first-class passenger who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Born on February 21, 1867, in Manhattan, New York, she was a frequent traveler and wife of prominent furrier Leo David Greenfield. Her remarkable story includes not only her survival of one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters but also her resilience in continuing to travel despite the haunting memories of that fateful night.

Early Life and Family

A New York Upbringing

Blanche was born into a family with German roots. Her parents were:

• Father: Henry Strouse (born 1851), a merchant from Germany
• Mother: Hannah Mork (1846-1914), a Kentucky native of German descent

The couple married on May 28, 1863, in Jefferson, Kentucky. Blanche grew up with two siblings:

• Elder sister: Tillie (born 1864, later Mrs. Max Thorn)
• Younger brother: William (born 1876)

Marriage and Family Life

On May 5, 1887, at the age of 20, Blanche married Leo David Greenfield in Manhattan. Leo, born on July 19, 1863, was a New York City native of Bohemian descent who became a successful furrier. The couple had one child:

• William Bertram Greenfield, born on May 11, 1888

The Greenfield family, including Blanche’s mother, resided in Manhattan. They appeared in both the 1900 and 1910 census records as residents of the city. Leo’s business, Leo D. Greenfield & Co Inc., specialized in manufacturing ladies’ fur garments, providing the family with a comfortable lifestyle.

The Titanic Journey

Why were the Greenfields on the Titanic?

As frequent travelers, Blanche and her son William boarded the Titanic at Cherbourg, France. William had been in Europe on business, and his mother likely joined him for the return journey to America.

Titanic Ticket Details

• Ticket Number: PC 17759
• Cost: £63, 7s, 2d (equivalent to about £7,500 or $9,300 in 2023)
• Cabin: D-10/12
• Class: First Class

The Night of the Sinking

On the night of April 14-15, 1912, when the Titanic struck an iceberg, Blanche and William were among the fortunate passengers to be rescued. They were placed in lifeboat 7, which holds the distinction of being the first lifeboat to leave the sinking ship.

Life After the Titanic

Immediate Aftermath

Upon arriving in New York, Blanche made a poignant decision out of respect for those lost in the disaster: she postponed her silver wedding anniversary celebrations, which had been planned for May 5, 1912.

Long-lasting Effects

The Titanic disaster left an indelible mark on Blanche’s life:

• She was haunted by the screams of those who perished in the icy waters
• Her exposure to the frigid North Atlantic affected her hearing in later years

Continued Love for Travel

Despite her traumatic experience, Blanche’s passion for travel remained undimmed:

• In 1921, she voyaged on the Olympic, Titanic’s sister ship
• She also traveled on other notable ships including:
  • Amerika
  • Lafayette
  • Multiple trips on the Leviathan

Later Years and Legacy

Relocation and Final Years

By 1915, Blanche and Leo had moved from Manhattan to:

• 52 Summit Drive, Far Rockaway, Queens

Blanche was widowed on November 27, 1934, when Leo passed away. Following her husband’s death, she returned to Manhattan, where she lived until her own passing on November 5, 1936, at the age of 69 (sixty-nine).

Final Resting Place

Blanche and Leo Greenfield are buried together at the Salem Field Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York. Their final resting place is marked by the Greenfield Mausoleum, a testament to their enduring bond and the family’s prominence.

An Enduring Tale of Survival

Mrs. Blanche Greenfield’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. From her survival of the Titanic disaster to her continued love of travel despite the trauma, she exemplified the spirit of many Titanic survivors who carried on with their lives while bearing the weight of their extraordinary experiences. Her journey from the luxurious cabins of the Titanic to her final resting place in Brooklyn encapsulates a life lived fully, touched by both tragedy and perseverance.