Miss Simonne Marie Anne Andrée Laroche

Who was Simonne Marie Anne Andrée Laroche?

Simonne Marie Anne Andrée Laroche was a young second-class passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born on February 19, 1909, in Paris, France, Simonne was just 3 (three) years old when she embarked on what would become one of history’s most infamous voyages. Her story is one of survival and resilience in the face of tragedy.

Early Life and Background

A Franco-Haitian Heritage

Simonne Laroche was born into a family with a unique cultural background:

• Nationality: French and Haitian
• Parents: Joseph Philippe Lemercier Laroche (father) and Juliette Marie Louise Laroche (mother)
• Sibling: Louise Laroche

Growing up in Paris, Simonne was exposed to a rich blend of French and Haitian cultures from an early age. This multicultural upbringing would shape her early years and contribute to her family’s decision to embark on their fateful journey.

The Titanic Journey

Why did the Laroche family board the Titanic?

The Laroche family boarded the Titanic at Cherbourg, France, on April 10, 1912. They were part of the second-class passengers on the ship, embarking on a journey that would change their lives forever.

Ticket and Fare Details:

• Ticket Number: 2123
• Fare: £41 11s 7d (41 pounds, 11 shillings, and 7 pence)

A Family’s Fateful Decision

The decision to travel on the Titanic was likely influenced by several factors:

1. The promise of a new life in Haiti
2. The opportunity to travel on the world’s most luxurious ship
3. The chance for Joseph Laroche to pursue better career prospects

Little did they know that this decision would lead to both tragedy and survival for different members of their family.

The Fateful Night: April 14-15, 1912

How did Simonne survive the Titanic disaster?

On the night of April 14, 1912, when the Titanic struck an iceberg, the Laroche family’s world was turned upside down. Amidst the chaos and panic, Simonne, her mother, and her sister managed to secure a place on a lifeboat.

Simonne, at just 3 (three) years old, became one of the youngest survivors of the Titanic.

Rescue Details:

• Lifeboat: 10
• Survival Status: Survived

Tragically, Simonne’s father, Joseph Laroche, did not survive the sinking. He became one of the many victims of the Titanic disaster, sacrificing his life to ensure his family’s safety.

Life After the Titanic

How did the Titanic experience shape Simonne’s life?

Following the disaster, Simonne, along with her mother and sister, was rescued and taken to New York City. The traumatic experience of losing her father and surviving one of the most infamous maritime disasters in history undoubtedly had a profound impact on her life.

Key Points:

• Disembarked in New York City
• Grew up without her father
• Carried the story of survival throughout her life

Later Years and Legacy

Simonne Laroche lived a long life, passing away on August 8, 1973, in Paris, France. She was 64 (sixty-four) years old at the time of her death. Interestingly, Simonne never married, perhaps influenced by her early life experiences.

What is Simonne Laroche’s place in Titanic history?

As one of the youngest survivors of the Titanic, Simonne Laroche holds a unique place in the annals of this historic event. Her story represents:

• The multicultural aspect of the Titanic’s passengers
• The tragedy of families torn apart by the disaster
• The resilience of survivors who went on to live full lives

Simonne’s survival, along with that of her mother and sister, serves as a poignant reminder of both the human cost of the Titanic disaster and the strength of those who lived to tell their tales.