Mr Richard Norris Williams II

Who was Richard Norris Williams?

Richard Norris Williams II was a 21 (twenty-one) year old Swiss-American first-class passenger aboard the RMS Titanic. Born on January 29, 1891, in Geneva, Switzerland, Williams was an accomplished tennis player who survived the tragic sinking of the Titanic and went on to have a remarkable career in sports and business.

Early Life and Background

A Promising Young Athlete

Richard Norris Williams II was born into a life of privilege and opportunity. As the son of Charles Duane Williams, he was exposed to the world of sports from a young age. His passion for tennis blossomed early, setting the stage for his future accomplishments.

Education and Aspirations

Prior to boarding the Titanic, Williams had plans to:

• Participate in tennis tournaments in America
• Study at Harvard University

These aspirations showcased his ambition and dedication to both academics and athletics.

The Titanic Journey

Boarding and Accommodations

Richard Norris Williams II and his father, Charles Duane Williams, boarded the Titanic at Cherbourg as first-class passengers. Their ticket number was PC 17597, and they paid a fare of £61 7s 7d.

Notable Experiences Aboard

During their time on the Titanic, Richard and his father had several memorable experiences:

1. Breaking into a cabin to rescue a panicking passenger
2. Visiting the ship’s bar at midnight
3. Observing the ship’s daily run on A-Deck
4. Seeking warmth in the gymnasium as the ship sank

The Fateful Night

How did Richard Norris Williams II survive the Titanic disaster?

As the Titanic began to sink, Richard and his father found themselves in the freezing water. Tragically, Charles Duane Williams was crushed by the ship’s forward funnel. Richard, however, managed to survive through a series of remarkable events:

1. He swam to Collapsible A, clinging to its side
2. Was later hauled aboard the collapsible boat
3. Transferred to lifeboat 14 by Officer Lowe
4. Refused the doctor’s recommendation to amputate his legs upon rescue

“I was not under water very long, and as soon as I came to the top I threw off the big fur coat. I also threw off my shoes. About twenty yards away I saw something floating. I swan to it and found it to be a collapsible boat.”

Post-Titanic Life and Achievements

Tennis Career

Despite his traumatic experience, Richard Norris Williams II went on to have an illustrious tennis career:

• 1912: Won the U.S. mixed doubles championship
• 1914 and 1916: U.S. singles champion
• 1920: Wimbledon men’s doubles champion
• 1924: Olympic gold medalist
• 1913-1926: Member of the U.S. Davis Cup team

Military Service

Williams served with distinction in the U.S. Army during World War I, earning the following honors:

• Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur
• Croix de Guerre

Professional Life

After his athletic career, Richard Norris Williams II:

• Became a successful investment banker in Philadelphia
• Served as President of the Historical Society of Pennsylvania for 22 (twenty-two) years

Legacy and Final Years

Richard Norris Williams II’s life was a testament to resilience and determination. He overcame the trauma of the Titanic disaster to become a celebrated athlete and respected professional.

Williams passed away on June 2, 1968, at the age of 77 (seventy-seven), due to emphysema. He was laid to rest in St. David’s Churchyard, Devon, Pennsylvania, leaving behind a legacy that extended far beyond his remarkable survival of one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.

His story serves as an inspiration to Titanic survivors and tennis enthusiasts alike, showcasing the indomitable human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity.