Marshall Brines Drew

Marshall Brines Drew was an 8 (eight) year-old American boy who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. As one of the youngest survivors of the Titanic disaster, Drew’s story provides a unique perspective on this tragic event and its lasting impact on those who lived through it.

Early Life and Family Background

What was Marshall Drew’s family situation?

Marshall Brines Drew was born on March 30, 1904, in Greenport, Suffolk, New York. His early life was marked by tragedy:

• His father, William John Drew, was an English immigrant from Constantine, Cornwall
• His mother, Annie Eliza Brines, was born in Woonsocket, Rhode Island
• Annie died shortly after Marshall’s birth
• Unable to care for his son alone, William entrusted Marshall to his childless brother James and his wife Lulu

Marshall grew up in Southold, New York, considering his aunt Lulu as his mother. This unconventional family arrangement would play a crucial role in his Titanic experience.

The Titanic Journey

Why was Marshall Drew on the Titanic?

In the autumn of 1911, Marshall traveled with his uncle James and aunt Lulu on the Olympic to visit relatives in Constantine, Cornwall. For their return journey to America, they booked passage on the Titanic, boarding at Southampton as second-class passengers.

Titanic Travel Details:

• Class: 2nd Class
• Ticket Number: 28220
• Fare: £32 10s
• Port of Embarkation: Southampton

What was Marshall’s experience on the Titanic?

Despite being in second class, Marshall and his uncle James were able to explore some of the first-class areas, including the gymnasium and barber’s shop. This glimpse into the luxury of the Titanic must have been an exciting experience for the young boy.

The Night of the Disaster

How did Marshall Drew survive the Titanic sinking?

On the night of April 14, 1912, Marshall’s life changed forever:

1. James was on deck when the ship struck the iceberg
2. He returned to the cabin, instructing Lulu and Marshall to dress and put on lifebelts
3. James escorted them to a lifeboat, said goodbye, and stepped back into the crowd
4. Marshall and Lulu were lowered into the ocean in a perilous descent

“The pulleys jammed, causing the lifeboat to drop suddenly at one end on a few occasions.” - Marshall Drew’s recollection

Marshall vividly remembered the sights and sounds of that night:

• The Titanic listing out of the ocean
• Heavy machinery crashing towards the bows
• People falling from the decks
• The cries of those struggling in the freezing water

Exhausted, the young boy fell asleep in the lifeboat, awakening to a sea dotted with icebergs and the arrival of the rescue ship Carpathia.

Life After the Titanic

How did the Titanic disaster impact Marshall Drew’s life?

Marshall’s survival of the Titanic disaster was just the beginning of his remarkable life story:

• Returned to Southold, New York with aunt Lulu and his father
• Lost his father to tuberculosis in 1917
• Graduated from Pratt Institute in New York in 1928
• Attended Columbia University
• Became an art teacher in Brooklyn public schools
• Married Mary from Connecticut and had a daughter, Bette Elizabeth, in 1937

Marshall’s artistic talents flourished throughout his life. He was not only a dedicated teacher but also:

• A talented photographer of natural life
• An expert in origami
• Continued to teach art and host events after retirement

What was Marshall Drew’s legacy as a Titanic survivor?

Marshall Drew became a valuable source of information about the Titanic disaster:

• Gave countless interviews about his experiences
• Befriended many Titanic enthusiasts
• Known for his distinctive appearance with flowing white hair and craggy face
• Held in high esteem by all who knew him

In his later years, Marshall relocated to Dunns Corner, Westerly, Rhode Island, where he continued to teach and live until his death on June 6, 1986, at the age of 82 (eighty-two).

Final Resting Place and Memorial

Marshall Drew’s final resting place serves as a poignant reminder of his extraordinary life:

• Buried in River Bend Cemetery, Westerly, Rhode Island
• Headstone features a depiction of the Titanic
• Inscription reads: “Teacher, Artist, Friend - Survivor of the Titanic Disaster 15 April 1912”

Marshall Drew’s life story, from his miraculous survival as a child to his contributions as an artist and educator, exemplifies the resilience of Titanic survivors and their impact on future generations.