Charles Edward Dahl

Who was Charles Edward Dahl?

Charles Edward Dahl, born as Karl Edvart Dahl, was a Norwegian-born carpenter and joiner who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic. He was 45 (forty-five) years old at the time of the disaster and became known for his eventful life that spanned multiple continents, including his dramatic escape from the ill-fated ship.

Early Life and Family

Norwegian Roots

Charles Edward Dahl was born on July 22, 1866, in Grense-Jakobselv, Sør-Varanger, Finnmarkens, Norway. He was one of eight children born to Nordmand Ellef Andersen Dahl, a fisherman and trader, and Marcelie Charlotte Mikaelssen. This large family background would later influence his decision to travel to North Dakota, where some of his siblings had settled.

A Life of Adventure: From Norway to Australia

The Australian Chapter

In 1892, at the age of 26 (twenty-six), Karl embarked on a life-changing journey. He emigrated to Adelaide, Australia, to work as a joiner. It was during this time that he anglicized his name to Charles Edward Dahl, a decision that reflected his adaptation to a new culture and perhaps his ambition for a fresh start.

Why did Dahl change his name?

The decision to change his name from Karl Edvart to Charles Edward was likely influenced by the common practice of immigrants adopting more anglicized names to better assimilate into English-speaking societies. This change might have helped him secure work and navigate social situations more easily in his new Australian home.

The Fateful Journey: Titanic and Survival

A Change of Plans

In 1912, Dahl made a decision that would alter the course of his life. He initially planned to return to Norway, but upon arriving in London, he had a change of heart. Instead, he booked passage on the RMS Titanic, embarking at Southampton as a third-class passenger.

Titanic Journey Details:

• Ticket Number: 7598
• Ticket Price: £8 1s
• Class: 3rd Class
• Embarked: Southampton
• Destination: Fingal, North Dakota

The Night of the Sinking

On the night of April 14-15, 1912, Dahl’s life took a dramatic turn. He later recounted that the impact of the Titanic hitting the iceberg threw him out of his bunk. Displaying remarkable presence of mind, he:

1. Changed into warmer clothing
2. Made his way to the aft well-deck
3. Proceeded to the boat deck
4. Joined in prayer led by Father Byles

A Narrow Escape

Dahl’s survival came down to a series of fortunate events. He was rescued in lifeboat 15, but not without drama. He claimed that he was allowed to climb down the falls to enter the boat, but once aboard, the other occupants, overwhelmed by the dire situation, attempted to throw him overboard.

Life After the Titanic

Recovery and Travels

After the Titanic disaster, Dahl’s life continued to be eventful:

• He was sent to St. Vincent’s hospital in New York for recuperation
• Visited family in North Dakota and Minnesota
• Spent two years traveling extensively instead of returning to Australia

Return to Norway and Family Life

In 1914, Dahl returned to Tromsø, Norway, where his life took another unexpected turn:

• Fathered an illegitimate son with Kristine Helgesen
• Married Hansine Kristine Pedersen in 1916
• Moved back to Oceania, Australia with his wife

Legacy and Final Years

Charles Edward Dahl’s life came full circle when he returned to Norway in his later years. He passed away on February 13, 1933, at the age of 66 (sixty-six), while visiting Tromsø. His final resting place is in Tromsdalen kirkegård, Tromsø, Norway.

What made Charles Edward Dahl’s life extraordinary?

Charles Edward Dahl’s life was a testament to the adventurous spirit of the early 20th century. From his birth in Norway to his time in Australia, his survival of the Titanic disaster, and his global travels thereafter, Dahl’s life embodied the tumultuous and opportunity-filled era in which he lived. His story serves as a reminder of the countless individual tales of survival and perseverance that emerged from the Titanic tragedy, each contributing to the rich tapestry of human history.