Henry Lefebvre

Who was Master Henry Lefebvre?

Master Henry Lefebvre was a young French passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. At just 5 (five) years old, he was one of the youngest victims of the tragic maritime disaster that occurred on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Family

Henry Lefebvre was born on July 14, 1906, in France. He was part of a close-knit family that included:

• Frances Marie Lefebvre (mother)
• Ida Lefebvre (sibling)
• Jeannie Lefebvre (sibling)
• Mathilde Lefebvre (sibling)

The Fateful Journey

Boarding the Titanic

On April 10, 1912, young Henry and his family embarked on what was supposed to be an exciting journey across the Atlantic. They boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton, England, as third-class passengers.

Ticket and Accommodation Details

• Ticket Number: 4133
• Class: 3rd Class
• Fare: £25 9s (equivalent to approximately £2,800 in 2023)

It’s worth noting that third-class accommodations on the Titanic, while basic compared to the luxurious first-class cabins, were still considered relatively comfortable for their time.

The Night of the Disaster

What Happened to the Lefebvre Family?

Tragically, on the night of April 14-15, 1912, when the Titanic struck an iceberg and began to sink, all members of the Lefebvre family, including young Henry, lost their lives. The chaos and confusion of the evacuation, coupled with the disadvantage of being in third-class accommodations, likely contributed to their inability to reach the lifeboats in time.

Legacy and Remembrance

How is Henry Lefebvre Remembered?

Henry Lefebvre’s story, though brief, serves as a poignant reminder of the many young lives lost in the Titanic disaster. His name, along with those of his family members, is etched in the annals of maritime history, symbolizing the tragic cost of the Titanic’s sinking.

The Lefebvre Family’s Place in Titanic History

The story of the Lefebvre family has been the subject of research and documentation by Titanic historians. Olivier Mendez, a notable researcher, has compiled a detailed account of the family’s history and their fateful journey on the Titanic.

Reflections on Child Passengers

Henry’s story raises important questions about the experiences of child passengers on the Titanic. How did children like Henry spend their time on the ship? What were their impressions of the grand vessel? While we may never know the answers to these questions for Henry specifically, accounts from other child survivors give us glimpses into what life might have been like for the youngest passengers on this historic voyage.

In the end, Master Henry Lefebvre’s short life and tragic demise serve as a somber reminder of the human cost of the Titanic disaster, particularly its impact on families and young children who had their whole lives ahead of them.