Christopher Head

Who was Mr Christopher Head?

Mr Christopher Head was a prominent English politician, insurance broker, and art enthusiast who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Born on December 25, 1869, in Stoke Newington, Middlesex, England, Head was a well-respected figure in London’s political and business circles. He served as the Mayor of Chelsea from 1909 to 1911 and was known for his passion for modern art and his involvement in the King Edward Memorial discussions.

Early Life and Family

A Privileged Upbringing

Christopher Head was born into a wealthy family, the son of Henry Head, an underwriter at Lloyd’s Bank in London, and Hester Beck. He was one of ten children, growing up in a bustling household that valued education and professional success.

Childhood Homes and Education

The young Christopher’s life was marked by moves that reflected his family’s social status:

• 1871: Resided at 122 Albion Road, Stoke Newington
• 1881: Moved to 41 Wimpole Road in Marylebone
• 1891: Family home was Great Buckingham House in Old Shoreham, Sussex

As a young man of 21, Christopher was described as a law student, setting the stage for his future career.

Professional Life and Achievements

Legal Career and Business Ventures

Christopher Head’s professional journey was marked by several notable achievements:

• Alumnus of Trinity College, Cambridge
• Called to the Bar, practicing in the Admiralty Division and on the North-Eastern Circuit
• Joined Lloyd’s Bank, following in his father’s footsteps
• In 1905, became a director at Henry Head & Co Ltd

Political Career

Head’s political aspirations led him to significant roles in local government:

• 1906: Elected as a Conservative councillor
• 1909-1911: Served as Mayor of Chelsea
• Took a leading role in discussions at the Mansion House regarding the King Edward Memorial

Artistic Pursuits

Beyond his professional and political life, Christopher Head was known for his cultural interests:

• Ardent collector of prints and drawings, particularly modern art
• Member of the prestigious Burlington Fine Arts Club

Personal Life and Marriage

A Late Marriage

Christopher Head’s personal life took a romantic turn relatively late:

• Married in London in late 1910 at the age of 41 (forty-one)
• Bride: Ethel Georgina Mary Hill-Trevor (née Chapman), born 1871
• Ethel’s background: Previously married to Major George Edwyn Hill-Trevor, divorced in 1910

Residence and Status

The 1911 census provides a snapshot of the Heads’ married life:

• Resided at 7 Wyndham House, Sloane Gardens, London
• Christopher described as an insurance broker

The Fateful Titanic Journey

Why was Christopher Head on the Titanic?

Mr. Head boarded the Titanic for a business trip to the United States. His journey details include:

• Embarked at Southampton
• Traveled as a first-class passenger
• Ticket number: 113038
• Ticket cost: £42, 10s
• Cabin: B11

A Prudent Precaution

Before embarking on his transatlantic voyage, Christopher Head took a significant precaution:

He had his life insured for £25,000 for the trip, a substantial sum equivalent to millions in today’s currency.

The Tragedy and Its Aftermath

Loss at Sea

Tragically, Christopher Head did not survive the sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912. He was 42 (forty-two) years old at the time of his death. His body, if recovered, was never identified.

Estate and Legacy

The financial aftermath of Christopher Head’s untimely death:

• Estate value: £56,207, 8s, 2d
• Estate administered to his brother Geoffrey on June 12, 1912

What Happened to Ethel After Christopher’s Death?

Ethel’s life after the loss of Christopher Head took several turns:

1. Remarried in 1914 to Sir John Phillip Du Cane, Brigadier General and Chief of the Imperial General Staff of the War Office
2. Became Lady Ethel Georgina Mary Du Cane
3. Continued to reside in London

Further Tragedy

Ethel faced more heartbreak during World War I:

• Her son from her first marriage, Hillyar George Edwin, served as Lieutenant in the First Battalion of the Scots Guards
• Hillyar was killed in action in France on December 21, 1914, aged just 18 (eighteen)

Later Life

Ethel’s long life saw further changes:

• Widowed again in 1947 upon Sir John Du Cane’s death
• Passed away in Chelsea on October 16, 1960

Christopher Head’s life, though cut short, was one of accomplishment and social prominence. His tragic end aboard the Titanic serves as a poignant reminder of the many lives lost in one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.