Engelhart Cornelius Østby

Who was Mr Engelhart Cornelius Østby?

Mr Engelhart Cornelius Østby was a prominent Norwegian-American jeweler and businessman who tragically perished in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. He was 64 (sixty-four) years old at the time of his death and had built a remarkable career as the co-founder of Østby & Barton, which became the world’s largest producer of gold rings.

Early Life and Education

Born on February 6, 1848, in Christiania (now Oslo), Norway, Engelhart Østby showed an early aptitude for craftsmanship and design. He pursued his passion at the Royal School of Art in his home city, where he studied to become a jeweler. His education was rigorous, including a six-year apprenticeship that laid the foundation for his future success.

From Norway to America: A Journey of Opportunity

Family Migration

In 1866, while Engelhart was still studying, his parents and one of his brothers made the bold decision to emigrate to America. This move would set the stage for Engelhart’s own transatlantic journey and future success.

Østby’s American Dream

Following in his family’s footsteps, Engelhart Østby arrived in America in 1869. His journey took him from New York to Providence, Rhode Island, a city that would become central to his life and career. This move exemplified the spirit of many immigrants of the era, seeking new opportunities and a chance to apply their skills in a burgeoning economy.

Professional Success

Early Career

Østby’s career in America began with positions at reputable jewelry firms:

Initially worked for Hunt & Owen (possibly G. & S. Owen)
Moved to Arnold & Webster (later Arnold & Steere)
Served as head of design and engraving for nine years at Arnold & Webster

Founding of Østby & Barton

In 1879, with a modest capital of $3,000, Engelhart Østby took a significant entrepreneurial leap:

Formed a partnership with Nathan B. Barton
Created the business of Østby & Barton
Started operations at 25 Potter St. (later called Garnet St.) in Providence

The company’s growth was remarkable:

Became the world’s largest producer of gold rings
Expanded operations, moving to larger premises multiple times
Finally settled in the former Ladd Watch Case Company building, which they had to double in size to accommodate their booming business

Beyond Jewelry

Østby’s business acumen extended beyond his jewelry empire:

Director of the High Street Bank
Director of the Industrial Trust Company
Trustee of the Citizens Savings Bank

His involvement in these financial institutions underscored his prominence in Providence’s business community and his diversified approach to wealth management.

Personal Life and Family

Marriage and Children

Married Lizzy Macy Webster on June 7, 1876
The couple had four sons and a daughter, Helen Ragnhild, born on November 30, 1889
Lizzy passed away on November 26, 1899, at the age of 45

Single Fatherhood

After his wife’s death, Engelhart raised his youngest children with the help of his mother until her passing on December 5, 1902, at the age of 76. This period showcased Østby’s dedication to his family amidst his business responsibilities.

European Business Travels

Østby was known for his frequent trips to Europe, particularly Paris, to stay abreast of market trends and innovations in jewelry design and production. These trips became a family affair when, starting in 1906, he began taking his daughter Helen with him on all subsequent European business trips.

The Fateful Titanic Journey

Booking the Titanic

In January 1912, Engelhart and Helen embarked on another European trip, combining business with pleasure:

Traveled through Southern Europe and Egypt
Learned about the possibility of returning to America on the Titanic while in Nice, France
Met Frank and Anna Warren in Paris, whom they had previously encountered in Egypt

Titanic Details

Paid £61 for their tickets (equivalent to £7,619 in 2023)
Boarded at Southampton, despite Helen’s later claim of boarding at Cherbourg
Occupied cabin B-30, while Helen was in B-36
Carried an old doctor’s bag containing gems, precious stones, and other valuables bought in Paris

The Night of the Disaster

On the night of April 14-15, 1912:

Engelhart and Helen sat in the reception room with the Warrens, listening to the orchestra
After the collision, they met in the corridor and climbed to the boat deck
Engelhart left Helen near lifeboat 5 to retrieve warmer clothes
Helen boarded the lifeboat, and they never saw each other again

Recovery and Burial

Engelhart’s body was recovered by the Mackay Bennett, numbered 234
Identified by David Sutherland, an employee of Østby & Barton, in Halifax
Buried on May 11, 1912, at Swan Point, Providence
The funeral was marked by an enormous floral tribute, despite requests to refrain from sending flowers

Legacy and Family Compensation

The family sought compensation from the White Star Line
Harold Østby claimed 840,000 Norwegian Kroner for loss of life
Helen claimed 5,376 Norwegian Kroner for loss of property and 33,600 Norwegian Kroner for loss of property and damage
Engelhart left a 14-page will, bequeathing his estate to his children and making provisions for other family members

Mr Engelhart Cornelius Østby’s life story is a testament to the immigrant experience, entrepreneurial spirit, and the tragic intersection of personal lives with historical events. His legacy lives on through his descendants and the enduring story of the Titanic.