George B. Goldschmidt

Who was George B. Goldschmidt?

George B. Goldschmidt was a prominent New York lawyer and seasoned transatlantic traveler who tragically perished in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. Born on December 16, 1840, Goldschmidt was 71 (seventy-one) years old when he embarked on his final voyage. He was known for his dedication to the legal profession, his passion for travel, and his friendship with Captain Edward John Smith of the Titanic.

Early Life and Family

George B. Goldschmidt was born into a family with German roots in New York City. His parents were:

• Father: John Meyer Goldschmidt (1801-1877), born in Germany
• Mother: Celestine Judah (1813-1898), born in New York

The couple married on June 6, 1838, and George was one of five siblings:

• John (1838-1891)
• George B. (1840-1912)
• Meyer (known as May, 1842-1920)
• Samuel Anthony (1848-1933)
• Edward (1855-1936)

George first appears in historical records in the 1850 census, living in Manhattan with his family.

Military Service and Legal Career

Civil War Contributions

During the American Civil War, George Goldschmidt served his country with distinction:

• Enlisted in the 22nd New York National Guard
• Progressed from Corporal to Sergeant
• Participated in the Harper’s Ferry and Gettysburg campaigns
• Later promoted to Major in the 55th New York National Guard

Legal Profession

Goldschmidt’s legal career was marked by several notable achievements:

• Admitted to practice law in 1862
• Became a member of the Bar Association in 1870, one of its oldest members
• Specialized as a conveyancer in New York
• Partnered with his brother Edward in a law firm at 34 Pine Street, New York

Personal Life and Interests

George Goldschmidt never married, but he led an active and engaging life:

• Resided in Brooklyn by 1892
• Well-known in New York social circles
• Active member of various organizations, including the Museums of Art and Natural History
• Frequent visitor to Hackensack, New Jersey, where he had numerous acquaintances

Passion for Travel

Goldschmidt was an avid traveler, particularly fond of transatlantic voyages:

• Appeared on passenger lists of numerous ships, including Teutonic, Carmania, Campania, Columbia, and Minnetonka
• Stood at 5'7" with a light complexion, blonde/grey hair, and blue eyes
• Known for his friendship with Captain Edward John Smith, often choosing to travel on ships under his command

The Titanic Journey

George Goldschmidt’s final voyage on the Titanic was a testament to his love for sea travel and his friendship with Captain Smith:

• Boarded the Titanic at Cherbourg as a first-class passenger
• Ticket number: PC 17754
• Ticket cost: £34, 13s, 1d
• Assigned to cabin A-5

Tragically, Goldschmidt did not survive the sinking, and his body was never identified or recovered.

Legacy and Remembrance

Despite his untimely death, George B. Goldschmidt left a lasting legacy:

• His $10,000 estate was divided between his brothers Edward and Samuel
• A servant was bequeathed $250 in his will
• Remembered on a cenotaph in the family plot at Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx, New York (section 14, lot 2250)

George B. Goldschmidt’s life story is a poignant reminder of the diverse and accomplished individuals who were lost in the Titanic disaster. His passion for travel, dedication to his profession, and friendship with Captain Smith paint a picture of a man who lived life to the fullest until his final, fateful journey.