Mr Nils Johansson

Who was Nils Johansson?

Mr Nils Johansson was a 30 (thirty) year-old Swedish passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born on July 4, 1881, in Ulfberga, Hallaryd, Kronoberg County, Sweden, Johansson was a third-class passenger who embarked on the Titanic’s maiden voyage from Southampton. His tragic story is one of love, ambition, and ultimately, loss.

Early Life and Background

Swedish Roots

Nils Johansson was born to Johannes Johansson and Ingjer Eriksdotter, who had married on April 15, 1879. As an only child, Nils grew up in Svaneryd, where his family moved in 1890. This small-town upbringing would shape his early years before he set his sights on opportunities abroad.

Career as a Machine Smith

“Nils Johansson had been a machine smith in the USA (probably Chicago) for some eight years.”

Johansson’s career took him across the Atlantic, where he worked as a general laborer and machine smith. His time in America, particularly in Chicago, lasted for approximately eight years, during which he likely honed his skills and saved money for his future.

The Titanic Journey

Why was Nils Johansson on the Titanic?

Nils Johansson’s presence on the Titanic was rooted in both personal and professional aspirations. He had returned to Sweden to bring back his fiancé, Olga Lundin, to start a new life together in America.

Titanic Boarding Details

Class: 3rd Class
Ticket Number: 347467
Fare: £7 17s
Port of Embarkation: Southampton

Johansson’s journey began in Sweden, taking him through Denmark where he purchased his Titanic ticket in Copenhagen. He boarded the ship in Southampton as a third-class passenger, accompanied by his traveling companions:

Their final destination was Chicago, where Nils planned to stay with his uncle Oscar Benson at 110 North Ashland Block.

Fate During the Disaster

A Selfless Act

On board the Titanic, Nils Johansson demonstrated his devotion to his fiancé, Olga Lundin. When Olga struggled with seasickness, Nils paid extra for her to move to a second-class cabin for better comfort. This act of kindness would ultimately save Olga’s life.

Final Moments

As the Titanic began to sink on April 15, 1912, Nils Johansson faced his fate with bravery and love. His last words to Olga as her lifeboat was lowered were poignant:

“Send my regards to father and mother.”

Tragically, Nils Johansson did not survive the sinking, and his body was never recovered from the icy Atlantic waters.

Legacy and Aftermath

Financial Compensation

Following the disaster, the Mansion House Fund provided financial support to Johansson’s parents:

Compensation	Amount
Initial Payment	875.52 Kr (£48)
Damage Claims	1848 Kr (£100)

The damage claims were paid to his parents on October 5, 1914.

Unraveling of Dreams

Before his fateful journey, Nils Johansson had painted a picture of success to his parents, claiming:

Joint ownership of a factory
Property ownership
A life insurance policy worth $1000

However, investigations in 1913 revealed a different reality:

The insurance from “Modern Brotherhood of America” was worthless
There was no property in his name
The factory in Seattle had gone bankrupt

How did Nils Johansson’s story impact the Titanic narrative?

Nils Johansson’s story exemplifies the dreams and aspirations of many third-class passengers aboard the Titanic. His journey from Sweden to America, his love for Olga Lundin, and his ultimate sacrifice add a deeply human element to the Titanic’s tragic tale.

His experience highlights the stark realities faced by immigrants seeking a better life, the bonds formed among passengers, and the heart-wrenching decisions made in the face of disaster. Johansson’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the lives cut short and the futures unrealized in one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.