Mr Juho Niilosson Strandén

Who was Juho Niilosson Strandén?

Juho Niilosson Strandén was a 30 (thirty) year-old Finnish farmer who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic in 1912. As a third-class passenger, Strandén’s journey from Southampton to New York became an unexpected tale of survival and resilience.

Early Life and Background

Where did Juho Strandén come from?

Juho Strandén was born on April 20, 1881, in Muljula, Kitee, Eastern Finland. He was the son of Niilo Strandén and Inka Musikka. Growing up in rural Finland, Juho followed in his family’s footsteps and became a farmer.

What was Juho’s life like before the Titanic?

Prior to his fateful journey on the Titanic, Juho led a simple life as a farmer in Finland. He was unmarried and had never before ventured across the Atlantic Ocean. His decision to board the Titanic marked a significant turning point in his life, as he sought new opportunities in America.

The Titanic Journey

Why was Juho Strandén on the Titanic?

Juho Strandén boarded the Titanic at Southampton as a third-class passenger with ticket number STON/O 2. 3101288. He paid £7 18s 6d for his passage, which in today’s currency would be a considerable sum. His final destination was Duluth, Minnesota, likely in search of better prospects in the United States.

What were Juho’s accommodations on the ship?

As a third-class passenger, Juho’s accommodations were modest compared to the luxurious first-class cabins. However, even the third-class facilities on the Titanic were considered superior to many other ships of the time. Juho shared his cabin with another passenger, Juho Niskanen, who would play a crucial role in Strandén’s survival.

The Night of the Disaster

How did Juho Strandén survive the Titanic sinking?

Juho Strandén’s survival story is a testament to quick thinking and fortune:

1. He was awakened by the crash of the ship hitting the iceberg.
2. Initially, he rushed to the forward deck where he saw ice.
3. Upon seeing people with lifebelts, he returned to his cabin.
4. He woke his cabin-mate, Johan Niskanen.
5. Together, they moved to the boat deck.
6. They assisted in loading a lifeboat on the starboard side.
7. Both men managed to board the lifeboat, likely number 9 or 15.

This series of events showcases Strandén’s alertness and ability to act decisively in a crisis situation.

What happened to Juho after the rescue?

After being rescued, Juho Strandén was among the survivors taken to New York City. Upon arrival, he was quartered at St. Vincent Hospital, where he likely received medical attention and support following the traumatic event.

Life After the Titanic

Did the Titanic disaster change Juho’s life plans?

While we don’t have specific information about how the Titanic disaster altered Juho’s immediate plans, we know that he eventually returned to Finland rather than settling in Minnesota as originally intended.

Where did Juho Strandén spend his later years?

Juho’s life after the Titanic can be traced through several key events:

• On December 14, 1925, he moved from Kitee to Pyhäselkä, near Joensuu in Finland.
• He spent his final years in Ruskeala, Finland.
• Juho Strandén passed away on August 28, 1943, at the age of 62 (sixty-two).
• He was laid to rest in Ruskeala Cemetery, Finland.

Legacy of a Titanic Survivor

How is Juho Strandén remembered today?

Juho Strandén’s story serves as a remarkable example of survival against the odds. As one of the Finnish passengers who lived through the Titanic disaster, his account provides valuable insights into the experiences of third-class travelers during the tragedy.

What can we learn from Juho Strandén’s Titanic experience?

Juho’s story highlights several important aspects of the Titanic disaster:

• The quick response and adaptability needed to survive such a catastrophe
• The camaraderie between passengers, as shown by his cooperation with Johan Niskanen
• The life-changing impact of the disaster on individuals, altering their life trajectories

Juho Strandén’s journey from a Finnish farm to the decks of the Titanic and back to his homeland encapsulates the broader narrative of migration, survival, and the unpredictable turns of fate that defined the early 20th century.