James Robert Mcgough - Titanic Universe

Who was James Robert McGough?

James Robert McGough was an Irish-American businessman and Titanic survivor who made a name for himself as a buyer for a prominent Philadelphia department store. Born in Ireland in 1876, McGough immigrated to the United States in his youth and became a successful merchant, frequently traveling to Europe on business. His life was forever changed by his experience aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic in 1912, where he survived the sinking and later provided valuable testimony about the disaster.

Early Life and Immigration

Irish Roots and Family

James Robert McGough was born on July 4, 1876 (thirty-five years old at the time of the Titanic disaster) in Mandistown, Drumconrath, a small village in County Meath, Ireland. He was one of nine children born to Thomas McGough, a farrier and blacksmith, and Catherine Dowdell. James grew up in a large family, with known siblings including:

Patrick (b. 1871)
John (b. 1872)
Thomas (b. 1878)
Joseph (b. 1882)
Mary (b. 1886)
Philip Aloysius (1888-1953)
Andrew Francis (1890-1926)

Journey to America

In the early 1890s, the McGough family made the momentous decision to emigrate to the United States, seeking better opportunities across the Atlantic. Young James arrived in America aboard the Etruria on May 20, 1894, joining his family as they settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Career and Personal Life

From Clerk to Merchant

The 1900 census reveals that the McGough family had established themselves at 1916 Carpenter Street in Philadelphia. At this time, James was working as a delivery clerk, taking his first steps into the world of commerce. Over the next decade, he would climb the professional ladder, eventually becoming a merchant and securing a position with the prestigious firm of Strawbridge & Clothier.

Marriage and Citizenship

On July 16, 1908, James petitioned to become a citizen of the United States. His naturalization records provide a vivid description of the man:

A Caucasian male standing at 6’ 2" with the trademark Irish features of dark hair and blue eyes.

McGough was officially declared a U.S. citizen on February 10, 1911. Around 1909, he married Mary J. Hughes, a Philadelphia native born in 1874 to Irish immigrant parents. The couple remained childless throughout their marriage.

The Titanic Experience

A Fateful Voyage

As a frequent traveler to Europe on business, McGough was no stranger to transatlantic journeys. In 1911, he had sailed aboard the Lusitania. On April 10, 1912, he boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton as a first-class passenger, holding ticket number PC 17473, which cost £26, 5s, 9d. He shared cabin E25 with fellow passenger John Irwin Flynn.

The Night of the Disaster

McGough’s testimony provides a gripping account of the night the Titanic struck the iceberg:

After the collision, McGough and Flynn encountered second steward George Dodd, who assured them there was no danger.
Trusting his instincts, McGough alerted a lady passenger across the hall before heading to the promenade deck with Flynn.
On deck, they were ordered to put on their lifebelts.
Witnessing the loading of women and children into lifeboats, McGough hesitated to board.
A large officer pushed McGough into Lifeboat 7, saying, “You are a big fellow, get into the boat.”

Survival in Lifeboat 7

McGough’s account of his time in Lifeboat 7 offers valuable insights into the confusion and fear that gripped survivors:

The lifeboat contained about 28 people initially.
They met another boat and transferred 5 more people.
Passengers initially believed they would soon return to the Titanic.
Upon realizing the ship was sinking, they rowed away to avoid the suction.
McGough noted the presence of water and crackers in the boat, unknown to them at the time.
There was discussion about returning for survivors, but some women passengers objected.

Life After the Titanic

Continued Travels and Career

Following his rescue, McGough returned to Philadelphia and resumed his work and travels. He continued to cross the Atlantic, sailing on renowned ships such as the Lusitania, Mauretania, Aquitania, Majestic, and Olympic. By 1920, James and Mary were living on York Street in Philadelphia, with James still working as a department store buyer.

Later Years and Hardship

The Great Depression hit the McGoughs hard. James found himself unemployed and struggling financially. Tragedy struck again when Mary passed away on March 25, 1934, after battling stomach cancer.

Legacy and Final Days

James Robert McGough’s life came to an end on July 24, 1937, at the age of 61 (sixty-one). He succumbed to a rare form of cancer after a two-year struggle. McGough was laid to rest in a family plot at Holy Cross Cemetery in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.

James McGough’s story serves as a testament to the resilience of Titanic survivors and the lasting impact of that fateful night on April 15, 1912. His journey from Irish immigrant to successful businessman, Titanic survivor, and eventual victim of the Great Depression encapsulates the triumphs and tragedies of early 20th-century American life.