Miss Mary Ann Charlotte Davis

Who was Mary Ann Charlotte Davis?

Mary Ann Charlotte Davis was a remarkable survivor of the Titanic disaster who lived to be 104 years old, holding the record for longevity among Titanic survivors. Born on May 18, 1883, in Southwark, London, England, she embarked on a journey that would not only change her life but also make her a part of one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history.

Early Life and Background

What was Mary’s childhood like?

Mary was born into a working-class family in London. She was one of eight children born to Henry Davis, a general laborer and later a carman, and Eliza Gill. Growing up in late Victorian London, Mary’s early life was typical of many working-class families of the time.

• Born on May 18, 1883, in Park Place, Southwark, London
• Baptized on June 10, 1883, in St Saviour’s Church
• One of seven surviving children out of eight

How did Mary’s early career shape her life?

As a young woman, Mary entered domestic service, a common occupation for working-class women of her time. Her experiences in this field would later influence her decision to seek new opportunities across the Atlantic.

• Worked as a domestic servant in London
• Employed as a cook for wealthy families
• Recounted working for a “titled lady” with 22 servants

The Titanic Journey

Why did Mary decide to sail on the Titanic?

Mary’s decision to board the Titanic was driven by her desire to join several of her siblings who had already emigrated to New York. This life-changing decision would put her at the center of one of history’s most famous maritime disasters.

What were Mary’s experiences on the night of the sinking?

Mary’s account of the Titanic’s sinking provides a vivid and personal perspective on the tragedy:

“I threw a coat on over my nightgown and put on some shoes. Then I gathered up a few trinkets, and things my parents had given me.”

• Assisted her cabin mate Lucy Ridsdale, who had a club foot
• Was hit in the shoulder by a sailor’s life jacket
• Realized she wasn’t wearing a life jacket and went back to fetch one
• Was thrown into a lifeboat (possibly boat 14) by an overzealous crewman

Survival and Life After the Titanic

How did Mary’s life unfold after surviving the Titanic?

After her rescue by the Carpathia, Mary’s life took several turns:

1. Briefly returned to England before settling in the USA
2. Married John Archibald Wilburn on January 31, 1891
3. Had one son, Carl, born on July 16, 1915
4. Lived in various locations including Richmond, New York, and Miami, Florida
5. Settled in Syracuse, New York

What was Mary’s legacy as a Titanic survivor?

Mary Davis Wilburn became known for her longevity and her willingness to share her Titanic experiences:

• Lived to be 104 years, 2 months, and 11 days old
• One of only five Titanic survivors to become centenarians
• Continued giving interviews well into her 100s
• Retained her London accent throughout her life
• Described as a pleasant lady by those who met her

Mary’s Remarkable Longevity

How did Mary’s long life impact Titanic history?

Mary’s extraordinary lifespan meant that she witnessed significant changes in how the Titanic disaster was remembered and studied:

• Was 102 years old when the Titanic wreck was discovered in 1985
• Provided valuable first-hand accounts of the disaster for nearly 75 years
• Became a living link to the Titanic tragedy for multiple generations

Mary Ann Charlotte Davis passed away on July 29, 1987, at the Community-General Hospital in Syracuse. Her life spanned from the Victorian era to the late 20th century, making her a unique witness to history and a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of tragedy.

Learn more about second-class survivors of the Titanic