Howard Hugh Williams

Who was Howard Hugh Williams?

Howard Hugh Williams, also known as Harry, was a 28 (twenty-eight) year-old Channel Islander who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Born in St Peter’s Port, Guernsey around 1884, Williams was a carman by trade and was traveling to Boston, Massachusetts to pursue work in a shipyard when he boarded the ill-fated vessel.

Early Life and Family

A Channel Islands Upbringing

Howard Hugh Williams was born into a working-class family in Guernsey, one of the picturesque Channel Islands. His parents, Samuel William Williams and Emily Williams, were both natives of St Martin’s, Guernsey. Samuel worked as a basket maker, a traditional craft in the Channel Islands.

Howard was one of four children:

• Gilbert (born 1878)
• Clifford (born 1883)
• Howard Hugh (born 1884)
• Francis (born 1887)

The Williams family’s life in Guernsey was typical of the late 19th century, with the 1891 census showing them residing at Valnord Bank, St Peter’s Port. This location, nestled in the heart of Guernsey’s capital, would have provided young Howard with a bustling maritime environment that may have influenced his later career choices.

Tragedy and Change

Sadly, Howard’s father passed away sometime between 1891 and 1901, leaving the family to adapt to new circumstances. The 1901 census reveals a shift in their living situation, with the family now residing in Back Street, St Peter’s Port. It was during this time that Howard, then a teenager, took up work as an assistant butcher, demonstrating his willingness to contribute to the family’s income.

Marriage and Family Life

A Union with Emily Jane Crabb

Around 1909, at the age of 25, Howard married Emily Jane Crabb, a fellow Guernsey native born on January 9, 1889. Their union was blessed with a son, Howard James, in 1910, completing their young family.

The 1911 Channel Island census provides a snapshot of their life together:

This census entry paints a picture of a young family starting out, living with relatives as was common in the era. Howard’s occupation as a ship’s steward hints at his connection to the maritime world, a factor that would ultimately lead him to the Titanic.

Career and Ambitions

From Land to Sea

Howard Hugh Williams’ career trajectory is an interesting one, showcasing his versatility and ambition. His occupations included:

1. Assistant butcher (as per 1901 census)
2. Ship’s steward in the merchant service (1911 census)
3. Driver for Messrs A. and F. Manuelle, stonemasons (contemporary news reports)
4. Carman (as listed on Titanic records)

This progression suggests a man willing to try his hand at various trades, perhaps in search of better opportunities for his young family. His decision to board the Titanic bound for Boston, with the intention of working in a shipyard, further underscores his determination to improve his lot in life.

The Fateful Titanic Journey

Embarking on a Dream

On April 10, 1912, Howard Hugh Williams boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton, holding a third-class ticket (number 2466) that cost £8 1s. He was not alone in this venture, traveling alongside his acquaintance Joseph Duquemin. Another friend, Albert Denbuoy, was also aboard, though traveling in second class.

“Harry was headed to Boston, Massachusetts to work in a shipyard.” - Encyclopedia Titanica

This journey represented more than just a transatlantic crossing for Williams; it was a path to a new life and potentially greater opportunities for his family back in Guernsey.

The Tragic Night of April 14-15, 1912

As the Titanic struck the iceberg on that fateful night, Howard Hugh Williams demonstrated remarkable courage and selflessness. According to the testimony of Joseph Duquemin, the sole survivor from their group:

“He and his friend had helped others until they were waist-deep in water.”

This account paints a picture of Williams as a man of character, putting the safety of others before his own even in the face of mortal danger.

In the final moments, Duquemin and Williams made a desperate attempt to save themselves:

“He turned to Howard to tell him that he was jumping and they went together. Whilst Duquemin managed to swim over to collapsible D, Williams fell victim to the suction.”

Legacy and Unanswered Questions

Howard Hugh Williams, at the young age of 28, lost his life in the sinking of the Titanic. His body, if recovered, was never identified, leaving his final resting place unknown. The fate of his widow, Emily Jane, and their young son, Howard James, remains a mystery, their stories lost to time after the tragedy.

Williams’ tale is one of countless poignant narratives from the Titanic disaster. A young man from the Channel Islands, seeking to build a better life for his family, instead became part of one of history’s most infamous maritime tragedies. His actions in the final hours, helping others even as the ship sank beneath him, speak to a character of bravery and selflessness that deserves to be remembered.

As we reflect on the life of Howard Hugh Williams, we’re reminded of the human cost of the Titanic disaster – not just in lives lost, but in dreams unfulfilled and families left to grapple with unimaginable loss. His story, though brief, serves as a testament to the courage and resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming adversity.