Harry Gale

Who was Mr Harry Gale?

Mr Harry Gale was a 37-year-old English miner and second-class passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born in Calstock, Cornwall, he had established a life in Colorado’s mining industry before his fateful journey back to America in April 1912.

Early Life and Family Roots in Cornwall

Harry Gale was born on May 7, 1874, in Calstock, Tavistock, Cornwall, England. He was baptized on December 6 of the same year, marking the beginning of his life in a tight-knit mining community. Harry’s parents were:

Father: Elijah Gale (born 1853), a tin miner
Mother: Maria Sandercock (born 1850)

Both his parents were natives of Calstock, rooting Harry deeply in the local mining culture. Harry was one of eight children, growing up in a large family typical of the era:

Alice (born 1872)
Harry (born 1874)
Rachel (born 1876)
Shadrach (born 1878)
Enoch Edward (1882-1939)
Rebecca Spry (1883-1943, later Mrs. William Mitchell)
George (1886-1886)
Emily Knott (1888-1973, later Mrs. Thomas Edwards)

Childhood and Early Work Life

Harry’s early years were marked by close family ties and the influence of his grandparents. Key moments in his childhood include:

1881: Appeared on the census living at Rising Sun in Calstock with his maternal grandparents, Thomas and Rebecca Sandercock
1891: Still residing with his grandparents in Harrow Barrow, Calstock
At age 16: Already working as a general labourer, having left school

Following in his father’s footsteps, Harry eventually transitioned into mining work, a profession that would shape his future and ultimately lead him to the Titanic.

The Call of Colorado: A New Life Abroad

Harry’s adventurous spirit led him to seek opportunities across the Atlantic. His journey to America unfolded as follows:

August 25, 1900: Departed Southampton aboard the St Paul with his brother Enoch
Destination: Colorado, USA
Occupation in Colorado: Continued working in the mines
1903: Joined by his brother Shadrach in Colorado

This move showcased Harry’s determination to build a new life and pursue opportunities in the booming American mining industry.

A Fateful Return Journey

After more than a decade in America, Harry and his brother Shadrach decided to return to their roots:

June 15, 1911: Arrived back in Britain aboard the Majestic
Purpose: To visit their family in Cornwall
April 10, 1912: Boarded the Titanic at Southampton for their return to Colorado
Ticket Details:
- Number: 28664
- Class: Second Class
- Cost: £21

It’s believed that Harry and Shadrach may have been traveling with fellow Calstock natives Frederick Pengelly and William Ware, adding a touch of home to their journey.

The Tragedy and Its Aftermath

Tragically, Harry Gale did not survive the sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912. He was 37 (thirty-seven) years old at the time of his death. The loss of Harry and his brother Shadrach deeply affected their family and community.

Legacy and Remembrance

While Harry’s life was cut short, his memory lives on:

May 9, 1922: Harry’s mother, Maria, passed away
November 1, 1936: Harry’s father, Elijah, passed away
Both parents are buried in St Andrew’s Churchyard in Calstock
A poignant tribute: Harry and Shadrach are commemorated on their parents’ headstone, ensuring their memory endures in their hometown

Harry Gale’s story is a testament to the spirit of adventure that led many to seek new opportunities abroad, only to have their lives tragically intertwined with one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters. His journey from the mines of Cornwall to Colorado and back again on the Titanic serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the statistics of the Titanic’s victims.