Lucian Philip Smith: A Tragic Tale of Love and Loss on the Titanic

Lucian Philip Smith was a 24 (twenty-four) year-old American first-class passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born into a wealthy family with significant coal interests, Smith’s life was cut short during one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.

Early Life and Background

Who was Lucian Philip Smith?

Lucian Philip Smith was born on August 14, 1887, in Dawson, Pennsylvania, to Norval Preston and Anne Houston Smith (née Cochran). He came from a family with substantial coal industry connections, which likely contributed to his affluent lifestyle.

Education and Personal Characteristics

Attended and graduated from West Virginia University
Stood 5'7" tall
Had light brown hair and blue eyes
Resided at 76 High Street, Morgantown, West Virginia (now Café Bacchus)

A Whirlwind Romance

How did Lucian meet his bride?

Local folklore suggests that Lucian first became aware of Mary Eloise Hughes through a photograph shown by a mutual friend. Smitten by her beauty, he traveled to Huntington to meet her in person. Their courtship was brief but intense, leading to a swift engagement.

A Lavish Wedding

Date: Thursday, February 8, 1912
Venue: Central Christian Church, Huntington
Best Man: James Smith (Lucian’s older brother)
Reception: Hotel Frederick

The Titanic Journey

Why were the Smiths on the Titanic?

The newlyweds embarked on an extensive honeymoon, traveling around the world. They began their journey on the Olympic, commanded by Captain Edward John Smith. However, by early April, they longed to return to West Virginia and booked passage on the Titanic for their return voyage.

Titanic Boarding Details

Embarkation: Cherbourg, France
Date: Wednesday, April 10, 1912
Ticket Number: 13695
Class: First Class
Cabin: C31

The Fateful Night

On the night of Sunday, April 14, 1912, Lucian was engaged in a bridge game with three acquaintances:

Paul Chevré
Alfred Fernand Omont
Pierre Maréchal

What happened when the Titanic struck the iceberg?

When the collision occurred, Lucian rushed to his cabin to wake Eloise. He reassured her, saying:

“We are in the north and have struck an iceberg. It does not amount to anything, but will probably delay us a day getting into New York. However, as a matter of form, the captain has ordered all ladies on deck.”

Lucian helped Eloise into Lifeboat No. 6, kissing her goodbye and instructing her to keep her hands in her pockets. He assured her that he would be given a place in a lifeboat once women and children were evacuated.

Tragic Fate

Did Lucian survive the Titanic disaster?

Tragically, Lucian Philip Smith did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. In a cruel twist of fate, his three bridge companions all found salvation in Lifeboat 7, launched early in the sinking from the starboard side.

Aftermath and Legacy

The Search for Lucian

James Smith traveled to Halifax, Nova Scotia, searching for his brother’s body
Makeshift morgues were examined
Captains of search vessels Mackay-Bennett and Minia were consulted
Lucian’s body was never recovered

Eloise’s Pregnancy and Remarriage

Eloise gave birth to Lucian Philip Smith II on November 29, 1912, in Cincinnati, Ohio
She married three more times before her death in 1940
Despite her remarriages, Eloise was buried under the name Smith

Memorial Service

A memorial service for Lucian Philip Smith was held on Sunday, May 12, 1912, at the Central Christian Church in Huntington - the same church where the couple had wed just three months earlier. The service was led by Reverend C.H. Bass.

The Lasting Impact of a Brief Life

Lucian Philip Smith’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Titanic disaster. His brief marriage to Mary Eloise Smith and their tragic separation during the sinking have become part of the larger narrative of love and loss associated with the Titanic. Though his life was cut short at just 24 (twenty-four) years old, Lucian’s legacy lives on through his son and the enduring fascination with the Titanic’s ill-fated passengers.