Francis Carruthers

Who was Mr Francis Carruthers?

Mr Francis “Frank” Carruthers was a prominent English civil servant and ship surveyor who played a significant role in the construction of the RMS Titanic. Born in 1856 in Carlisle, Cumberland, Carruthers had a distinguished career in marine engineering and ship surveying, culminating in his supervision of the building of both the Olympic and Titanic for the Board of Trade.

Early Life and Family

Francis Carruthers was born into a military family in 1856. He was baptized on August 24, 1856, at St Mary’s Church in Carlisle. His father, William Carruthers (1825-1905), served as a Staff Sergeant in the British Army, while his mother was Christiana Ewing (1831-1908).

Marriage and Children

On February 18, 1884, Francis married Mary MacKinnon in Partick, Scotland. At the time of his marriage, Carruthers was working aboard the SS Ridsdale at Howdon Dock on the River Tyne. The couple went on to have four children:

• Francis
• Kate (twin)
• Margaret (twin)
• William

Career in Marine Engineering and Surveying

How did Francis Carruthers begin his career?

Francis Carruthers embarked on his illustrious career in marine engineering and surveying through a series of professional positions:

1. Assistant-Superintendent to Robert Baird on the Tyne
2. Assistant for F. Scudamore and Company, London
3. Assistant to John Baxter at Newcastle-on-Tyne

After gaining experience in these roles, Carruthers pursued a 13-year career as a marine engineer before joining the Board of Trade.

Professional Achievements

By 1912, Francis Carruthers had accumulated an impressive list of professional accomplishments:

• Member of the Institute of Naval Architects
• 16 years of service with the Board of Trade
• Supervisor of the construction of RMS Olympic and RMS Titanic

Connection to the Titanic

Francis Carruthers’ most notable contribution to maritime history was his involvement with the RMS Titanic. As a member of the Board of Trade, he was responsible for overseeing the construction of both the Olympic and Titanic, ensuring they met the required standards of seaworthiness.

Titanic Inquiry Testimony

Following the tragic sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912, Carruthers was called upon to provide expert testimony at the British Inquiry. His insights into the ship’s construction and seaworthiness were crucial in understanding the events that led to the disaster.

Later Life and Legacy

After his involvement with the Titanic inquiry, Francis Carruthers and his family returned to Britain. He spent his final years in Surrey, residing at 119 Rodenhurst Road, Clapham Park.

What was Francis Carruthers’ financial legacy?

Francis Carruthers passed away on December 26, 1934, at the age of 78 (seventy-eight). He left behind a substantial estate valued at £8,997 4s 8d, which is equivalent to approximately £670,000 in today’s currency, reflecting his successful career and prudent financial management.

Final Resting Place

Carruthers was laid to rest on December 29, 1934, in Putney Vale Cemetery and Crematorium, Wandsworth, London (Section I, Plot 323).

Family’s Later Years

Mary Carruthers, Francis’ widow, returned to her Scottish roots in her later years. She lived to the age of 91 (ninety-one), passing away on August 15, 1950, in Largs, Scotland.

Francis Carruthers’ life and career spanned a pivotal era in maritime history, from the golden age of steamships to the tragic loss of the Titanic. His expertise in ship construction and his role in overseeing the building of some of the most famous vessels of his time cement his place in the annals of naval architecture and maritime safety.