Charles Eugene Williams

Who was Charles Eugene Williams?

Charles Eugene Williams was a renowned English racquet player and Titanic survivor. Born on July 28, 1888, in Brompton, London, he rose to fame as the World Champion in racquets, a precursor to modern squash. Williams survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912 and later emigrated to the United States, where he continued his sports career as a tennis instructor.

Early Life and Family

A Multicultural Background

Charles Eugene Williams was born into a family with diverse roots:

• Father: Edmund Williams (born 1847), Welsh
• Mother: Elizabeth Holland (born 1858), French-born of Welsh parentage
• Siblings: Amy (born 1882), Ellen (born 1891), and James (born 1893)

Both his parents worked as tailors, providing a modest upbringing for their children. The 1901 census places the Williams family at 5 Cottage Place, Westminster, offering a glimpse into their early living conditions in the heart of London.

Rise to Sporting Fame

From Ball Boy to World Champion

Charles Williams’ journey in the world of racquets is a testament to his talent and determination:

1. Started as a ball boy at London’s exclusive Prince’s Club
2. Turned professional, showcasing his skills on the court
3. January 1911: Won the Open Championship of England, defeating Edgar Maximilian Baerlein
4. Later in 1911: Challenged for the World Championship against India’s Jamsetji Merwanji
5. Secured the World Champion title after winning at Queen’s Club and drawing at Prince’s Club

This rapid ascent in the racquets world established Williams as a formidable player and set the stage for his future endeavors.

Personal Life and Family

Charles Williams married Lois Wilkins in the latter half of 1910. Lois, born on January 27, 1888, in Chelsea, London, was the daughter of John Wilkins, a carpenter and joiner, and Leah Stevens. The couple’s family grew quickly:

• First child: Eugene Charles, born March 29, 1911
• Subsequent children:
  • Ninian (born 1913)
  • John (born 1915)
  • Dorothy (1917-1998)
  • Jean (born 1920)
  • Hilda Theresa (1921-1981)

The 1911 census shows the young family residing at 2 Drury Road, Harrow, London, where Charles was employed as a racquet professional at Harrow School.

The Titanic Journey

A Fateful Voyage

Charles Williams boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton as a second-class passenger. His ticket, number 244373, cost £13, equivalent to approximately £1,500 in today’s currency. The purpose of his journey was significant: he was traveling to New York to defend his world racquets title against George E. Standing.

The Night of the Disaster

On the evening of April 14, 1912, Williams’ routine took a dramatic turn:

• 10:30 PM: Left the squash racquet court
• Settled in the smoking room
• Following the collision, he rushed out to witness the iceberg
• Described the iceberg as rising 100 feet above the deck and breaking up amidships

Survival and Aftermath

Williams was among the fortunate survivors, believed to have been rescued in lifeboat 14. However, the initial confusion following the disaster led to him being reported among the lost. This misinformation was quickly corrected when the Racquets Association received a cable from Williams, stating:

“Match postponed; return next week. Williams.”

– Daily Sketch, April 20, 1912

Life After the Titanic

Return and Family Expansion

After his harrowing experience, Charles returned to England, reuniting with his wife and son. Over the next decade, the Williams family grew, welcoming five more children into their fold.

A New Life in America

On July 29, 1924, Charles and his family embarked on a new chapter, arriving in New York aboard the Olympic. They settled in Chicago, where the 1930 census records them living at 5524 Lakewood Avenue. In this new setting, Williams adapted his sporting expertise, working as a tennis instructor.

Final Years and Legacy

Charles Eugene Williams’ life came to an end on October 27, 1935, at the age of 47 (forty-seven). He succumbed to bronchial pneumonia and was laid to rest in Rosehill Cemetery, Chicago, three days later.

His widow, Lois, continued to reside on Lakewood Avenue for some time before relocating to Evanston, Illinois. She remained devoted to Charles’ memory, never remarrying. Lois passed away on November 25, 1959, and was buried alongside her husband in Rosehill Cemetery.

Charles Eugene Williams’ life story encapsulates a remarkable journey from the racquet courts of London to the decks of the Titanic, and finally to the tennis courts of Chicago. His survival of one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters adds a layer of intrigue to the legacy of this world champion athlete.