Miss Marija Orešković

Who was Marija Orešković?

Marija Orešković was a 19 (nineteen) year-old Croatian farm laborer who tragically lost her life as a third-class passenger aboard the RMS Titanic. Born on August 24, 1892, in Konjsko Brdo, Croatia, Marija’s journey to America was cut short by one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history.

Early Life and Background

What was Marija’s life like before the Titanic?

Marija Orešković spent her youth in rural Croatia, working as a farm laborer. Her humble beginnings in Konjsko Brdo shaped her strong work ethic and likely influenced her decision to seek new opportunities across the Atlantic. As an unmarried young woman of 19, Marija embodied the spirit of many European immigrants of her time, willing to leave behind the familiar in pursuit of a better life.

The Titanic Journey

How did Marija come to be on the Titanic?

Marija’s Titanic adventure began in Southampton, England, where she boarded the ill-fated ship as a third-class passenger. She was not alone in her journey, traveling alongside her relatives:

Both Luka and Jelka were also farmers, suggesting a close-knit family unit embarking on a new chapter together.

What were the details of Marija’s ticket and destination?

Ticket Number: 315096
Fare: £8 13s 3d (8 pounds, 13 shillings, and 3 pence)
Destination: South Chicago, Illinois

Interestingly, Marija purchased her ticket from Johann Isidor Büchel, an agent in Buchs, for 170 Swiss francs.

This detail provides insight into the complex network of ticket agents and currency exchanges involved in transatlantic travel during the early 20th century.

Fate During the Disaster

What happened to Marija when the Titanic sank?

Tragically, Marija Orešković did not survive the sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912. At the young age of 19, her promising life was cut short in the frigid waters of the North Atlantic. Her body, if recovered, was never identified, leaving her family without closure.

The loss of Marija highlights the disproportionate impact the disaster had on third-class passengers, many of whom were immigrants seeking a new life in America.

Legacy and Impact

How was Marija’s family affected by her loss?

The tragedy of the Titanic reverberated through families across the world, including Marija’s. In the aftermath of the disaster:

Marija’s mother, Manda Orešković, received a grant of £50 from the Mansion House Titanic Relief Fund.
This financial assistance, while unable to compensate for the loss of a child, demonstrates the global response to aid families affected by the Titanic disaster.

Remembering Marija Orešković

Marija Orešković’s story, though brief, encapsulates the dreams and tragedies of many Titanic passengers. Her journey from the farms of Croatia to the decks of the world’s most famous ship serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the disaster and the countless stories of hope and loss intertwined with the Titanic’s legacy.

As we remember Marija, we honor not just her memory, but the memories of all those who sought a better life and found themselves part of one of history’s most tragic events. Her story continues to resonate, reminding us of the importance of preserving and sharing the individual narratives that collectively tell the tale of the Titanic.