Mr Sigurd Hansen Moen

Who was Sigurd Hansen Moen?

Sigurd Hansen Moen was a 27 (twenty-seven) year-old Norwegian carpenter who tragically lost his life in the Titanic disaster. Born on January 15, 1885, in Grimstadeie Farm, Skjåk, Gudbrandsdalen, Norway, Moen was a third-class passenger on the ill-fated voyage, leaving behind a young family and unfulfilled dreams of a new life in America.

Early Life and Background

Family Roots in Norway

Parents: Hans Hansen (Bispmoen) and Elisabet Olsdatter
Father’s Occupation: Timber driver and shoemaker
Sibling: At least one sister, Thea, born in 1890

Sigurd grew up in the picturesque region of Gudbrandsdalen, known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. His father’s diverse skills as both a timber driver and shoemaker likely influenced Sigurd’s own career path.

What was Moen’s profession?

Moen followed in his father’s footsteps of skilled craftsmanship, becoming a carpenter or cabinet maker. He honed his skills in woodworking, a trade that would have been highly valued both in Norway and in his intended destination of America.

Marriage and Family Life

On July 4, 1908, Sigurd married Inga Johanne Jørgensdatter Melseth in Ørskog prestegjeld (parish), Norway. The couple settled in Bergen, where they started their family:

Child	Date of Birth	Place of Birth
Johannes	June 18, 1909	Bergen
Elly	After 1910	Bergen

By 1910, the Moen family had established their home at 6 Breistølsveien in Bergen, with Sigurd working as a carpenter to support his growing family.

The Titanic Journey

Why did Moen decide to travel to America?

Like many Europeans of his time, Sigurd Moen saw opportunity in America. He had previously visited the United States, suggesting he may have been planning a more permanent move for his family. His destination was Minnesota, where he had connections with Gunder and Hans Hansen in Minneapolis.

Who were Moen’s traveling companions?

Sigurd didn’t embark on this journey alone. He was part of a group that included:

Olaus Jørgensen Abelseth, his brother-in-law
Peter Andreas Lauritz Andersen Søholt, Abelseth’s cousin
Kalle (Karen) Marie Kristiane Abelseth
Anna Kristine Salkjelsvik
Adolf Mathias Nicolai Olsen Humblen

This group of Norwegian travelers boarded the Titanic together at Southampton, sharing the excitement and anticipation of a new life across the Atlantic.

Details of Moen’s Titanic Ticket

Class: 3rd Class
Ticket Number: 348123
Cabin: F G73
Fare: £7 13s

Fate During the Disaster

What happened to Sigurd Moen on the night of April 14, 1912?

Tragically, Sigurd Moen did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. As a third-class passenger, his chances of reaching a lifeboat were significantly reduced. The chaos and confusion of that fateful night, combined with the limited access to upper decks for third-class passengers, likely contributed to his inability to escape the sinking ship.

Recovery and Return

“His body was later recovered by the Minia (#309). On 9 May 1912 it was forwarded to New York to be returned to Norway by the Scandinavian American Line.”

This poignant detail highlights the efforts made to return victims to their families, even in the aftermath of such a massive tragedy. Moen’s body, identified as number 309, was among those recovered by the cable ship Minia, which was sent to search for victims after the disaster.

Legacy and Remembrance

Where is Sigurd Moen buried?

Sigurd Hansen Moen found his final resting place in Mollendal cemetery in Bergen, Norway. This burial location serves as a tangible connection to his life and tragic end, allowing family and future generations to pay their respects.

Impact on Family

The loss of Sigurd Moen at the young age of 27 (twenty-seven) undoubtedly had a profound impact on his family. His wife Inga was left a widow with two young children, Johannes and Elly, to raise alone. Their story is a stark reminder of the human cost of the Titanic disaster, which shattered families and dreams across continents.

Sigurd Hansen Moen’s journey, cut tragically short, represents the hopes and aspirations of many immigrants seeking a better life in America. His story, preserved through historical records and family memories, continues to be a part of the larger narrative of the Titanic, reminding us of the individual lives behind the statistics of this monumental tragedy.