Mr Richard Cater Nosworthy

Who was Richard Cater Nosworthy?

Richard Cater Nosworthy was a 21 (twenty-one) year-old English farm labourer who tragically lost his life in the Titanic disaster on April 15, 1912. Born in March 1891 in Newton Abbot, Devon, England, Nosworthy was a third-class passenger on the ill-fated ship, embarking on a journey that would ultimately lead to his untimely demise.

Early Life and Family Background

Childhood in Devon

Richard Cater Nosworthy was born into a working-class family in Newton Abbot, Devon. His parents were:

• Father: George Henry Nosworthy (born 1865), a tanner’s labourer
• Mother: Lavinia Ann Rowe (born 1866), originally from Cornwall

The Nosworthy family was quite large, with Richard having several siblings:

• George Henry (born 1890)
• John Rowe (born 1893)
• Florence Annie (1898-1958)
• Albert (born 1887, a half-sibling from his mother’s previous relationship)

Early Census Records

Richard’s early life can be traced through various census records:

1. 1891 Census: At just one month old, Richard was living with his family at 7 Shapley’s Court, Highweek, Newton Abbot.
2. 1901 Census: The family had moved to Cottage Bradley in Newton Abbot.
3. 1911 Census: Richard, now working as a farm labourer, was still living with his family at 21 Highweek Road, Newton Abbot.

The Titanic Journey

Why was Richard Cater Nosworthy on the Titanic?

Richard’s exact destination remains uncertain, with conflicting reports:

“One report (Totnes Times and Devon News, 20 April 1912) states that he was travelling to Buffalo, New York where he had an uncle. Another report (Western Morning News, 17 April 1912) suggests that he was headed for Canada where he had friends.”

Booking and Embarkation Details

• Original Booking: Richard initially booked passage on the Olympic.
• Change of Plans: Due to rail disruptions, his journey to Southampton was halted at Exeter, forcing him to return to Newton Abbot.
• Titanic Booking: He transferred his passage to the Titanic.
• Embarkation: Boarded the Titanic at Southampton as a third-class passenger.
• Ticket Details:
  • Number: 39886
  • Cost: £7 16s (7 pounds, 16 shillings)

Fate During the Disaster

What Happened to Richard Cater Nosworthy?

Tragically, Richard Cater Nosworthy did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. As a third-class passenger, his chances of survival were significantly lower than those in first or second class.

• Date of Death: April 15, 1912
• Age at Death: 21 (twenty-one) years old
• Body Recovery: His body, if recovered, was never identified.

Legacy and Remembrance

How is Richard Cater Nosworthy Remembered?

Despite his young age and tragic end, Richard Cater Nosworthy’s memory lives on:

1. Family Gravestone: Richard is remembered on the family gravestone in the graveyard at Highweek, north of Newton Abbott, Devon.

2. Inscription: The gravestone bears a touching inscription:

   In Loving Memory Of George H. Norsworthy Died August 8th 1936 Aged 70 Also Richard C. Norsworthy Son Of The Above Who Lost His Life In The ‘Titanic’ Disaster April 15th 1912 Aged 21 ‘Nearer My God To Thee’ And Of Lavinia Ann Wife of George Norsworthy Died Feb 8th 1942 Aged 77 ‘Peace Perfect Peace’

3. Historical Records: His story continues to be told through historical records and Titanic passenger lists, preserving the memory of a young life cut short by one of the most famous maritime disasters in history.

Richard Cater Nosworthy’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the many lives lost in the Titanic disaster, particularly those from the lower classes who had the least chance of survival. His journey, cut tragically short, continues to resonate with those who study and remember the fateful events of April 1912.