John Bertram Crafton

Who was Mr John Bertram Crafton?

Mr John Bertram Crafton was a prominent American businessman and industrialist, known as “The Stone King” for his success in the limestone industry. Born on April 20, 1853, in Monroe County, Indiana, Crafton rose from humble beginnings to become a respected figure in Bloomington’s business community. His life was tragically cut short at the age of 58 (fifty-eight) when he perished aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Career

Humble Beginnings

John Bertram Crafton was born to Kentucky farmers who had relocated to southern Monroe County, Indiana. His early years were spent on the family farm, instilling in him the values of hard work and perseverance that would shape his future success.

A Multifaceted Career Path

As a young man, Crafton moved to Bloomington, where he embarked on a diverse and impressive career trajectory:

1. Telegraph operator at the Monon Railroad station
2. Promoted to conductor and “train master”
3. Real estate speculator
4. Limestone quarry developer and owner

It was in the limestone industry where Crafton truly made his mark. He founded the Crafton Quarry Company and developed the stone fields of the Smithville and South Union districts in Monroe County. His success in this field earned him the nicknames “The Stone King” and “Mr Stoneman” from the local press.

Family Life and Personal Characteristics

John Bertram Crafton married Sarah Alexander, daughter of prominent Bloomingtonians Nancy and James J. Alexander. The couple had two sons:

• Harry R., born in 1885
• Woodard (or Woodward), born in 1887 but tragically died at seven months old

Crafton was known for his genial nature and popularity within the community. This was evident when his wife organized a surprise 43rd birthday party for him in February 1896. The Bloomington Courier-Telegraph reported on the event, noting the guests’ wishes for “the genial Mr. Crafton” to enjoy many more such celebrations.

Business Ventures and Later Career

Transition to Lumber

After his successful stint in the limestone industry, Crafton sold his assets in Monroe County and moved his family to Roachdale, Putnam County, Indiana. There, he pursued interests in the lumber industry in the Southern United States. In 1911, he managed the Mississippi Stone and Lumber Company in Starr, Mississippi.

Winding Down and European Travel

As Crafton began to wind down from his busy career, he decided to take a European trip for “recreation” and to seek treatment for his arthritis at various spas. Before leaving, he made arrangements for his final resting place, purchasing a rose granite family monument and surrounding plots at Rose Hill Cemetery in Bloomington.

The Fateful Titanic Journey

European Travels and Homesickness

In early 1912, Crafton departed New York on the Cincinnati for Europe. During this voyage, he reportedly expressed a strong desire to return home. His European itinerary included:

• Carlsbad, where he sought treatment for rheumatism
• Italy, from where he telegrammed his wife about his imminent return

Boarding the Titanic

Originally planning to return on the Kaiserin Auguste Victoria on April 17, Crafton changed his plans to sail a week earlier on the Titanic. He stayed at the Victoria Hotel in London before boarding the ship in Southampton with the following details:

• Ticket number: 113791
• Fare: £26 11s
• Class: First Class

The Tragedy and Its Aftermath

As news of the Titanic’s sinking reached Bloomington, local papers reported on Crafton’s fate. Initially, his fortune was estimated at about $50,000, but a year later, he was referred to as “a millionaire Hoosier.”

On April 19, 1912, the Crafton family received the devastating news that John’s name did not appear on the survivor list. The White Star Line’s telegraph confirming his death arrived at his brother David’s home in Bloomington, where the family had gathered.

Legacy

John Bertram Crafton’s body was never recovered from the sea. His monument at Rose Hill Cemetery in Bloomington bears the poignant inscription “Lost on the Titanic.” The monument also marks the final resting places of:

• His infant son Woodard
• His wife Sally, who died in 1937
• His son Harry R. Crafton, who passed away in 1938

John Bertram Crafton’s life story serves as a testament to the American dream, rising from a farming background to become a successful businessman. His tragic end aboard the Titanic has cemented his place in both local Bloomington history and the broader narrative of one of the 20th century’s most infamous maritime disasters.