Johan Emil Pettersson

Who was Mr Johan Emil Pettersson?

Mr Johan Emil Pettersson was a 25 (twenty-five) year-old Swedish general labourer who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. Born in Västermo, Södermanland, Sweden, Pettersson was a third-class passenger on the ill-fated maiden voyage, accompanying his sister on her return to America.

Early Life and Family

Johan Emil Pettersson was born on November 19, 1886, in Västermo, Södermanland, Sweden. He came from a large family, being one of nine children born to Per Larsson and Anna Stina Larsdotter. His parents had married on September 26, 1869, and raised their family in the Swedish countryside.

Siblings

Johan’s eight siblings were:

Emma Sofia (born June 12, 1873)
Carl Oscar (born April 17, 1875)
Augusta (born January 26, 1877)
Charlotta (born March 5, 1879)
Emma Christina (born June 21, 1883)
Olof Arvid (born July 29, 1884)
Hulda Maria (born January 6, 1889)
Johanna (born July 21, 1871) - also a victim of the Titanic sinking

Life Before the Titanic

What was Johan’s occupation?

In 1910, Johan was described as a farm labourer. He lived in Närlunda (Åby Norra), Västermo, in the household of farmer Carl Oskar Pettersson, born in 1875, and his family. Johan continued to reside there until 1912, honing his skills as a general labourer.

When did Johan decide to leave Sweden?

The local vicar noted that Johan left Västermo on March 18, 1912, bound for North America. This decision would set in motion the events that led to his fateful journey aboard the Titanic.

The Titanic Journey

Why was Johan traveling to America?

Johan’s sister, Johanna Ahlin, had emigrated to America in 1905 and had been visiting her parents in Sweden. Johan decided to accompany her on her return journey to the United States.

What were the details of Johan’s Titanic ticket?

Ticket Number: 347076
Class: Third Class
Cost: £7 15s 6d (7 pounds, 15 shillings, and 6 pence)

Where was Johan heading?

Johan and his sister were destined for 4947 Lincoln Avenue, Chicago. This address likely held the promise of new opportunities and a fresh start for the young Swedish labourer.

The Tragic Sinking

Sadly, Johan Emil Pettersson did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. His body, if recovered, was never identified, leaving his family without closure.

Aftermath and Financial Compensation

In the wake of the disaster, Johan’s family received several forms of compensation:

Life Insurance: On July 2, 1912, Johan’s father received 1000 Kr from his son’s life insurance.
Mansion House Fund: This fund paid 874.08 Kr (£48) to Johan’s parents.
Damage Claims: An additional 1366.50 Kr (£75) in damage claims was paid on May 31, 1914.

While no amount of money could replace their lost son and brother, these payments likely provided some financial relief to the grieving family.

Legacy

Johan Emil Pettersson’s story is a poignant reminder of the many lives cut short by the Titanic disaster. A young man seeking new opportunities, Johan’s journey represents the dreams and aspirations of countless immigrants who risked everything for a chance at a better life. Today, his name lives on in Titanic historical records, ensuring that his memory and the circumstances of his untimely death are not forgotten.