Robert Douglas Norman

Who was Robert Douglas Norman?

Robert Douglas Norman was a 27 (twenty-seven) year-old Scottish electrical engineer who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland on September 14, 1884, Norman was a second-class passenger aboard the ill-fated ship, traveling to Vancouver, British Columbia to visit his brother.

Early Life and Background

Family and Education

Robert Douglas Norman was born into a family with both English and Scottish roots:

Father: Robert Norman (1836-1894), an English silk merchant
Mother: Mary Harriet Hicks (born 1853 in Rothesay, Bute), Scottish
Sibling: George Stanley Norman, one year younger
Half-sister: Lucie, from his father’s previous marriage

The Norman family resided in Edinburgh, Scotland, where young Robert grew up. In 1891, they lived at 25 Blacket Place, Newington. After his father’s passing, the 1901 census shows Robert, his mother, and brother living at 44 Cluny Gardens, Edinburgh, where he was described as a scholar.

Career as an Electrical Engineer

Following his education, Robert pursued a career in electrical engineering:

Apprenticed as an electrical engineer
Moved to Glasgow for work
Resided at 961 Sauchiehall Street
Employed by AEG Electrical Company at 50 Wellington Street

The Titanic Journey

Why was Robert Douglas Norman on the Titanic?

Robert boarded the Titanic at Southampton as a second-class passenger with the intention of visiting his brother in Vancouver, British Columbia. His ticket, number 218629, cost £13 10s.

Notable Acquaintances and Activities

During the voyage, Norman:

Became acquainted with Kate Buss and Marion Wright
Played piano at a hymn service led by Rev. Ernest Carter on the night of the sinking

The Fateful Night

How did Robert Douglas Norman react to the collision?

After the Titanic struck the iceberg, Robert:

Met with Kate Buss and Marion Wright
Informed them of the collision with an iceberg
Assured them there was no danger
Accompanied them to their lifeboat
Stood back, allowing others to board

What was Robert Douglas Norman’s fate?

Tragically, Robert Douglas Norman did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. His body, numbered 287, was later recovered by the Mackay-Bennett and buried in Fairview Cemetery, Halifax, Nova Scotia on May 6, 1912.

Legacy and Remembrance

Personal Effects and Estate

The recovery of Robert’s body provided insight into his personal belongings:

NO. 287. - MALE. - ESTIMATED AGE, 32. FAIR - HAIR, HIGH FOREHEAD. CLOTHING- Dark trousers and vest; no coat; green striped flannel shirt; no boots. EFFECTS- Gold watch and chain; sovereign purse with £5; £4 8s. 6d. loose; thirty one cents in foreign coins; pocket knife and diary. NAME - ROBERT D. NORMAN.

Robert’s estate, valued at over £8,500 (equivalent to £650,000 in today’s money), was left to his brother George in Canada on August 13, 1912. This substantial sum was distributed among various family members.

Memorial

Robert Douglas Norman is remembered on his parents’ headstone in Grange cemetery Edinburgh, Scotland, Section N, Row 7, ensuring his memory lives on in his hometown.

Interesting Facts About Robert Douglas Norman

Despite being only 27, his body was initially estimated to be that of a 32-year-old man.
He carried both British and Canadian currency, highlighting his intended journey to Vancouver.
Norman’s willingness to play piano for a hymn service showcases his musical talents and community spirit, even in the face of impending disaster.

Robert Douglas Norman, though his life was cut short, left behind a legacy of kindness and bravery during the Titanic’s final hours. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the many lives tragically lost in one of history’s most famous maritime disasters.