Carrie Constance Chaffee

Who was Mrs Carrie Constance Chaffee?

Mrs Carrie Constance Chaffee (née Toogood) was a 47 (forty-seven) year-old American first-class passenger who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Born on August 28, 1864, in Manchester, Iowa, she was known for her musical talents, her role as a mother of six, and her resilience in the face of tragedy. After losing her husband in the Titanic disaster, she became an active businesswoman and philanthropist.

Early Life and Education

A Musical Beginning

Carrie Constance Toogood’s early life was marked by a passion for music. In 1886, she embarked on her higher education journey at Oberlin College in Ohio. Her academic pursuits included:

1 year at the Conservatory of Music
1 year studying Art at the College

Although she initially enrolled for a three-year program, fate had other plans for young Carrie.

A Life-Changing Meeting

In 1887, Carrie’s life took a significant turn when she met Herbert Chaffee. Their whirlwind romance led to marriage on December 21, 1887, just months after their first encounter. This union would shape the course of Carrie’s life in ways she could not have imagined.

Family Life and Career

The Move to North Dakota

Shortly after their marriage, Carrie and Herbert relocated to North Dakota. This move was prompted by Herbert’s need to take charge of his family’s farming business. The couple quickly settled into their new life, with their first son born on September 28, 1888.

A Growing Family

Carrie’s life in North Dakota was bustling with activity as she managed a complex household while raising her children. Her family grew to include six children:

Eben Whitney Chaffee
Dorothy Chaffee Stroud
Herbert Lawrence Chaffee
Florence Adele Chaffee
Lester Fuller Chaffee
One child who sadly died in childhood

Balancing Motherhood and Music

Despite the demands of her growing family, Carrie never lost touch with her musical roots. She shared her talents with the community by giving voice lessons to the children of prairie farmers. This act not only kept her connected to her passion but also contributed to the cultural enrichment of her new home.

The Fateful Titanic Journey

Embarking on a Tragic Voyage

In April 1912, Carrie and Herbert boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton as first-class passengers. They were assigned cabin E-31 for their journey. The couple was returning from a European trip to their home in Amenia, Cass Co., North Dakota.

Ticket Details:

Ticket Number: 5734
Cabin: E31
Ticket Price: £61 6s (equivalent to about $7,692 in 2023)

A Night of Terror and Survival

On the night of April 14-15, 1912, when the Titanic struck an iceberg and began to sink, Carrie found herself facing a life-or-death situation. In the chaos of the evacuation, she was able to secure a spot on lifeboat 11, ensuring her survival. Tragically, her husband Herbert was not as fortunate and perished in the disaster.

Life After the Titanic

From Survivor to Businesswoman

Following the loss of her husband, Carrie demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. She took an active role in managing the Land Company’s assets, stepping into a business world that was predominantly male at the time.

Philanthropic Endeavors

Carrie’s survival seemed to ignite a passion for helping others. She became a leader in charitable work, focusing her efforts in two main areas:

North Dakota
Minneapolis, Minnesota

Her philanthropic spirit extended beyond national borders. Carrie became a charter member of the American-Chinese Education Committee in Canton, China, showcasing her commitment to international education and cultural exchange.

Legacy and Final Years

Carrie Constance Chaffee’s life was marked by resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to community service. Her experiences as a Titanic survivor did not define her but rather seemed to fuel her determination to make a positive impact on the world.

She passed away on July 4, 1931, at the age of 66 (sixty-six) in Amenia, North Dakota. Carrie was laid to rest in Amenia Cemetery, where a cenotaph also stands in memory of her husband Herbert.

Carrie’s journey from a music student to a Titanic survivor, and finally to a respected businesswoman and philanthropist, serves as a testament to her strength of character and her ability to face life’s greatest challenges with grace and determination.