Rowland Edwin Stanley

Who was Rowland Edwin Stanley?

Rowland Edwin Stanley was a 22 (twenty-two) year-old English porter who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. Born in early 1890 in Milverton, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, Stanley’s life was cut short during his journey as a third-class passenger on the ill-fated ship.

Early Life and Family Background

A Veterinary Surgeon’s Son

Rowland Edwin Stanley was born to John Albert Stanley, a veterinary surgeon, and Miriam Anne Morris. His parents, both natives of Leamington Spa, married on December 23, 1882, in Birmingham. Rowland was one of six known children in the Stanley family:

• Albert (born circa 1880)
• Norah (1882-1925)
• William Percy (born circa 1883)
• Olive Elise (1884-1884)
• Guy Alick (1885-1947)
• Rowland Edwin (1890-1912)

Childhood and Loss

The Stanley family’s life took a series of unfortunate turns:

1. In 1891, they lived as lodgers at 7 South View Terrace in Holdenhurst, Bournemouth, Hampshire.
2. Later, they moved to 287 Christchurch Road in Boscombe.
3. On October 1, 1899, Rowland’s father passed away.
4. Less than a year later, on May 18, 1900, his mother died.

These tragic events left young Rowland orphaned at the tender age of 10.

Life as an Orphan

Following the loss of his parents, Rowland’s life changed dramatically:

• In the 1901 census, he was recorded as an inmate at St Joseph’s Boys Orphanage in Romsey.
• Around 1904, Rowland and his brother reportedly emigrated to Cleveland, Ohio.

Titanic Journey

Return to England and Employment

In 1910, Rowland reportedly returned to England to visit relatives. The 1911 census shows him:

• Living at the Railway Hotel in Swanage, Dorset
• Working as a boots steward for Alfred Fowles, a licensed victualler
• Listed as “Edward Roland” in the census

Boarding the Titanic

Rowland’s fateful journey began as he prepared to return to Cleveland:

• He boarded the Titanic at Southampton as a third-class passenger
• His ticket number was 45380, costing £8 1s
• He was traveling with Ernest James Crease, his sister-in-law’s brother
• Stanley described his occupation as a porter

Fate During the Disaster

The night of April 14-15, 1912, proved tragic for Rowland Edwin Stanley:

• He was lost in the sinking of the Titanic
• His body, if recovered, was never identified
• Initial reports suggested he was not aboard, bringing brief relief to his family
• The truth of his presence on the ship soon emerged, confirming his tragic fate

Legacy and Family After the Titanic

Brother Albert’s Life in Ohio

Albert Stanley, Rowland’s brother:

• Remained in Ohio, working for the Ford Motor Company
• Married Jessie Mabel Crease in 1910
• Had three children: Florence (b. 1913), Evelyn (b. 1916), and Rowland (1918-1937)
• Later divorced Jessie and remarried Marie Mounicot (b. 1895)
• Is believed to have remained in Ohio, possibly passing away in the 1960s

Other Siblings’ Fates

What Impact Did Rowland Edwin Stanley’s Story Have?

Rowland Edwin Stanley’s life and tragic death on the Titanic serve as a poignant reminder of the many young lives cut short by the disaster. His journey from orphaned child to a young man seeking opportunities abroad reflects the social mobility and emigration patterns of early 20th century England. Though his life was brief, Stanley’s story contributes to the rich tapestry of Titanic victims whose individual experiences collectively paint a vivid picture of one of history’s most infamous maritime tragedies.