Mr Sarkis Mardirosian

Who was Sarkis Mardirosian?

Sarkis Mardirosian was a 25 (twenty-five) year-old Armenian-American passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born in 1887, Mardirosian worked as a farm labourer and owned an antiques shop in Lyons, France. His journey on the Titanic would tragically be his last, as he did not survive the ship’s sinking on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Background

Armenian Roots with American Ties

Although specific details about Sarkis Mardirosian’s early life are limited, we know that he had connections to both Armenia and America. Interestingly, his family has been traced to Beirut, Lebanon, suggesting a diverse cultural background. This multicultural heritage likely influenced his decision to embark on a transatlantic journey.

From Farm Labour to Antiques

Mardirosian’s occupational journey is intriguing:

• Started as a farm labourer
• Transitioned to owning an antiques shop in Lyons, France

This career shift demonstrates Mardirosian’s entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability, moving from agricultural work to the world of valuable collectibles.

The Titanic Journey

Why did Sarkis Mardirosian board the Titanic?

While the exact reasons for Mardirosian’s travel are not specified, we can infer that as an Armenian-American, he may have been journeying to the United States for business or personal reasons. The Titanic, being promoted as the epitome of luxury and speed, would have been an attractive choice for a transatlantic crossing.

Boarding at Cherbourg

Sarkis Mardirosian embarked on the Titanic at Cherbourg, France. This port was the Titanic’s first stop after leaving Southampton, England, and was known for welcoming many international passengers.

Travel Details

Mardirosian traveled in third-class, which, while the most economical option, still offered unprecedented comfort for steerage passengers on the Titanic. He shared cabin E46 with three other steerage passengers, a common arrangement for single men in third class.

Fate During the Disaster

The Tragic Night of April 14-15, 1912

As the Titanic struck an iceberg on the night of April 14, 1912, Sarkis Mardirosian, like many other third-class passengers, faced significant challenges in reaching the lifeboats. The ship’s design and evacuation procedures often put those in steerage at a disadvantage.

What happened to Sarkis Mardirosian?

Sadly, Sarkis Mardirosian did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. At the young age of 25 (twenty-five), his life was cut short in the early hours of April 15, 1912. His body, if recovered, was never identified, adding to the tragedy of his loss.

“He did not survive the sinking and his body was never found.”

This poignant fact underscores the immense loss of life in the Titanic disaster, with many victims, like Mardirosian, never receiving a proper burial.

Legacy and Remembrance

Preserving the Memory

While Sarkis Mardirosian’s life was tragically short, his story serves as a reminder of the diverse backgrounds of Titanic’s passengers. As an Armenian-American antique shop owner traveling in third class, he represents the aspirations and dreams of many immigrants and entrepreneurs of his time.

Historical Significance

Mardirosian’s story contributes to the broader narrative of the Titanic disaster, highlighting:

• The international nature of the passenger list
• The challenges faced by third-class passengers during the evacuation
• The countless individual tragedies that make up the larger Titanic story

Today, Sarkis Mardirosian is remembered among the victims of the Titanic, his name etched in the annals of this historic maritime disaster. His journey from Armenia to France, and his final voyage on the Titanic, continue to fascinate historians and descendants alike, keeping alive the memory of those lost on that fateful night in April 1912.