Mr Samuel Herman

Who was Samuel Herman?

Samuel Herman was a 50 (fifty) year-old English farmer and former hotel proprietor who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Born in 1862 in Galhampton, Somerset, Herman was a second-class passenger aboard the ill-fated ship, traveling with his family in hopes of starting a new life in America.

Early Life and Background

A Somerset Native

Samuel Herman was born in the spring of 1862 in Galhampton, Somerset, England. He was the son of George Herman (1825-1904), an agricultural laborer, and Sarah Biggin (1835-1906). Growing up in a large family, Samuel had several siblings:

• James (born 1854)
• Anna (born 1857)
• Emily (born 1865)
• Elizabeth (born 1868)
• George (born 1871)
• Sarah (born 1875)

From Farm to Hotel

Samuel’s early life was rooted in agriculture. The 1881 census described him as an agricultural laborer, following in his father’s footsteps. However, his career path would soon diversify:

1. Agricultural laborer
2. Butcher
3. Farmer
4. Hotel proprietor

For several years, Samuel was the proprietor of the Britannia Hotel in Castle Cary, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability.

Family Life

In early 1887, Samuel married Jane Laver, a fellow Somerset resident. The couple welcomed twin daughters, Kate and Alice, on December 6, 1887. The Herman family’s residences over the years included:

• 4 Abbey Cottages, Castle Cary, Somerset (1891 and 1901 censuses)
• Smallways, Galhampton, Castle Cary (1911 census)

Interestingly, the Hermans took a young employee, 14-year-old George Sweet, under their wing, treating him as a surrogate son.

The Titanic Journey

Why did the Hermans decide to emigrate?

Despite being financially comfortable for many years, the Hermans experienced a downturn in their fortunes in England. This setback prompted their decision to seek new opportunities in America.

Titanic Boarding Details

• Class: Second Class
• Ticket Number: 220845
• Fare: £65
• Port of Embarkation: Southampton

The Herman family, including Samuel, his wife Jane Herman, daughters Alice Herman and Kate Herman, along with their young friend George Frederick Sweet, boarded the Titanic at Southampton. Their destination was Bernardsville, New Jersey, where Samuel’s brother-in-law, Arthur Laver, worked as a steward at the Somerset Hill Country Club.

“Originally booked aboard a different ship, they cancelled their voyage to allow more time to prepare.”

This fateful decision to change their travel plans would have profound consequences for the family.

The Night of the Disaster

How did Samuel Herman react to the collision?

When the Titanic struck the iceberg, Samuel Herman was on deck. He returned to the cabin where his wife and daughters were in bed, initially telling them not to fear and to stay in bed due to the cold. After investigating further, he returned with urgency, instructing his family to dress quickly.

A Husband and Father’s Sacrifice

Samuel Herman’s actions in the face of danger were heroic:

1. He escorted his wife and daughters to the boat deck.
2. He ensured their safety by seeing them off in one of the aft starboard lifeboats.
3. He remained behind with George Sweet, adhering to the “women and children first” protocol.

Tragically, Samuel Herman and George Sweet did not survive the sinking. Their bodies, if recovered, were never identified.

Legacy and Remembrance

How was Samuel Herman’s estate handled?

Samuel Herman’s estate, valued at £266, 6s, 4d, was administered to his widow and brother-in-law Charles Laver on September 7, 1912. This financial provision would have offered some support to his surviving family members as they faced life without him.

A Lasting Impact

While Samuel Herman’s life was cut short at the age of 50 (fifty), his story embodies the hopes, sacrifices, and tragedies associated with the Titanic disaster. His journey from a Somerset farmer to a Titanic passenger represents the aspirations of many who sought new beginnings in America.

Samuel Herman’s tale serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Titanic tragedy, particularly among the second-class passengers who, like the Hermans, were often families and individuals seeking better opportunities across the Atlantic.