Ernest Pearce

Who was Ernest Pearce?

Ernest Pearce was a 31 (thirty-one) year-old English farmer who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. Born in Thame, Oxfordshire, Pearce had a diverse background that included military service and various occupations before embarking on his ill-fated journey to Canada as a third-class passenger aboard the Titanic.

Early Life and Family

Ernest Pearce was born on September 9, 1880, in Thame, Oxfordshire. He was the son of John Pearce, a cooper born in 1833, and Mary (née Rolfe), born in 1836 in Brill. Ernest came from a large family, being one of ten children:

• Mary Elizabeth (1861-1950)
• Charles William (1864-1896)
• Alfred (1865-1944)
• Fred (1867-1925)
• Kate Eleanor (1870-1933)
• Clara (b. 1871)
• Emma (b. 1875)
• Alice (b. 1877)
• Mary (b. 1879)
• Ernest (1880-1912)

Childhood and Early Years

Where did Ernest Pearce spend his early years?

Ernest’s early years were spent in various locations across England. The 1881 census shows the family living at the Seven Stars Inn in Thame, where Ernest was listed as a 6-month-old infant. By 1891, the family had moved to 13 Moffatt Street, Bray, Maidenhead, Berkshire. At this time, only Ernest and his sister Alice Mary were still living at home with their parents.

Military Service

Ernest Pearce’s life took an interesting turn when he joined the military. On May 24, 1899, at the age of 18 (eighteen), he enlisted in the 10th Hussars at a London recruiting office. His military records provide a vivid description of the young Ernest:

• Height: 5 feet 5½ inches
• Weight: 131 pounds
• Hair color: Light brown
• Eye color: Blue
• Complexion: Fresh
• Distinguishing marks: Blue dots tattooed on his right forearm and a scar on his forehead

Where did Ernest Pearce serve during his military career?

Ernest’s military service took him to various parts of the world:

1. South Africa: August 9, 1900 - September 21, 1902
2. India: September 22, 1902 - February 5, 1907
3. Returned to England and transferred to Army reserve: May 24, 1907 - May 23, 1911

Pre-Titanic Life

After his military service, Ernest Pearce pursued various occupations. When he first joined the army, he listed his trade as “butcher.” However, by the time he boarded the Titanic, he had changed his occupation to “farmer.”

The Titanic Journey

What were Ernest Pearce’s plans when boarding the Titanic?

Ernest Pearce boarded the RMS Titanic on April 10, 1912, as a third-class passenger. His ticket number was 343271, and he paid a fare of £7. Pearce’s intended destination was Canada, where he likely planned to start a new life as a farmer.

Before embarking on this fateful journey, Ernest gave his address as 10 Bedford Place, Southampton, which was the residence of his brother Alfred. Alfred, a carriage builder and employer, lived there with his wife Clara.

Tragic End

Sadly, Ernest Pearce did not survive the sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912. He was 31 (thirty-one) years old at the time of his death. His body, if recovered, was never identified, leaving his family without closure.

Legacy

Ernest Pearce’s story is a poignant reminder of the many lives cut short by the Titanic disaster. His journey from a small town in Oxfordshire to the decks of the ill-fated ship encapsulates the spirit of adventure and hope for a better future that drove many passengers to embark on the Titanic’s maiden voyage. Today, Ernest Pearce is remembered as one of the many souls lost in one of the most famous maritime disasters in history, his life a testament to the diverse backgrounds and aspirations of the Titanic’s passengers.