George Dennick Wick

Who was Col. George Dennick Wick?

Col. George Dennick Wick was a prominent American businessman and industrialist who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. He was a respected figure in the iron and steel industry, known for his leadership roles in several major companies and his contributions to the economic development of Youngstown, Ohio.

Early Life and Education

George Dennick Wick was born on June 24, 1854 (fifty-seven) years old, in Youngstown, Ohio. He was the son of Paul Wick, a banker, and Susan Abigail Bull. Growing up in a family of six siblings, young George was exposed to the world of business from an early age.

Educational Journey

• Attended public schools in Youngstown
• Graduated from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts in 1876

This educational background laid the foundation for his future success in the business world.

Business Ventures and Career

George Wick’s career in the iron and steel industry was marked by rapid advancement and notable achievements:

1. First venture: Wick, Bonnell & Co rolling mills in Chicago
2. Moved to Cleveland, Ohio to engage in iron commodities sales
3. Returned to Youngstown in 1882
4. Became president of the Trumbull Iron Company
5. By 1897, was president of the Mahoning Valley Iron Company

His business acumen led to the creation of several mills and the organization of various iron and steel companies. Despite a period of ill health in 1902 that forced a temporary retirement, Wick later resumed his work in the iron business.

Military Title and Civic Engagement

In 1896, George Wick acquired the title of Colonel when he was appointed as aide de camp to Governor Asa Bushnell. This appointment also made him a staff officer of the state national guard, showcasing his involvement in civic affairs beyond his business interests.

Personal Life

George Wick’s personal life was marked by both joy and tragedy:

• First marriage: Mary Caroline Chamberlain (October 1, 1879)

  • One child: Mary Natalie (born 1880)
  • Mary Caroline passed away on March 2, 1893

• Second marriage: Mary Peebles Hitchcock (June 10, 1896)

  • One son: George Dennick Jr. (born March 19, 1897)

The Fateful Titanic Journey

In early 1912, due to his ongoing health issues, George Wick decided to take a European vacation with his family. The trip included:

• Destinations: Naples, Venice, Paris, and London
• Traveling companions: Wife Mary, daughter Natalie, and cousin’s daughter Caroline Bonnell
• Boarded the Titanic at Southampton as first-class passengers
• Ticket number: 36928
• Cost of ticket: £164, 17s, 4d

The Night of the Disaster

On the night of April 14, 1912, when the Titanic struck the iceberg:

• George and Mary Wick were in their cabin
• Initially skeptical of the danger, George reassured his family: “Why, that’s nonsense, girls. This boat is all right. She’s going along finely. She just got a glancing blow, I guess.”
• The family made their way to the Boat Deck
• The Wick and Bonnell ladies boarded lifeboat 8
• George Wick was last seen waving to his family from the railing

Col. George Dennick Wick perished in the sinking, and his body, if recovered, was never identified.

Legacy and Remembrance

George Wick’s life and tragic death left a lasting impact:

• A memorial service was held in Youngstown on April 24, 1912
• At the time of his death, he held directorships in several companies including:
  • Dollar Savings & Trust Co
  • First National Bank
  • The Youngstown Sheet & Tube Company
  • Federal Building Company
  • Paul Wick Estate
• Member of the Youngstown Club and Youngstown Country Club
• Fraternal member of Kappa Alpha fraternity of Williams College

Stones for George D. Wick and his wives are located in Lot 748, Oak Hill Cemetery, Youngstown, Ohio, serving as a lasting memorial to this influential businessman whose life was cut short by one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.