Mr Solomon Banewer

Who was Solomon Banewer?

Solomon Banewer was a 42 (forty-two) year-old Lithuanian merchant who tragically lost his life as a second-class passenger aboard the RMS Titanic. Born on April 10, 1870, in Vilnius, Lithuania (then part of the Russian Empire), Banewer’s life journey took him from Eastern Europe to the United States and back again, ultimately leading to his fateful voyage on the ill-fated ship.

Early Life and Immigration to America

From Lithuania to Boston

Solomon Banewer’s early life in Lithuania remains largely shrouded in mystery. However, his journey to America began in June 1889 when he first arrived in the United States via Liverpool. Settling in Boston, Massachusetts, Banewer quickly set about establishing himself in his new home.

Becoming an American Citizen

On May 13, 1896, Solomon Banewer achieved a significant milestone:

He became a naturalized citizen of the United States, with his address listed as 136 Merrimac Street, Boston.

This step marked his commitment to his adopted country and laid the foundation for his future as an American merchant.

Legal Troubles and Business Endeavors

An Unexpected Turn of Events

Intriguingly, the 1900 census reveals an unexpected chapter in Banewer’s life:

• He was listed as a prisoner in the Suffolk County House of Correction in Boston
• The nature of his crime remains unknown
• This incident provides a glimpse into the complexities of his life in America

Establishing Himself as a Merchant

Despite this setback, Banewer persevered and established himself as a merchant. By December 1902, he had:

• Moved to 1704 Washington Street, Boston
• Applied for a U.S. passport with the intention of traveling abroad for two years

Solomon Banewer’s Physical Description

When applying for his passport, Banewer was described in detail:

This vivid description helps us picture Solomon Banewer as he was in his early thirties, a man in his prime preparing for international travel.

Travels and Return to Europe

A Brief Journey Abroad

Solomon Banewer’s planned two-year trip was cut short:

• He returned to the U.S. aboard the New York on August 21, 1904
• The reasons for his early return are unknown

Settling in London

At some point after his return to America, Banewer made his way back to Europe:

• By April 1912, he had been living in London for an undetermined period
• His reasons for relocating to England remain a mystery

The Fateful Titanic Journey

Why was Solomon Banewer on the Titanic?

While we don’t know the exact reason for his travel, Solomon Banewer boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton on April 10, 1912 - his 42nd birthday. He was traveling as a second-class passenger, having purchased ticket number 211535 for £13.

What happened to Solomon Banewer during the disaster?

Tragically, Solomon Banewer did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. He became one of the many victims of the disaster, losing his life on April 15, 1912, at the age of 42 (forty-two). His body, if recovered, was never identified.

Legacy and Unanswered Questions

A Possible Family Connection

An intriguing postscript to Solomon Banewer’s story emerged shortly after the Titanic disaster:

On May 25, 1912, a man named Abram Banewer (born 1875), also a merchant, boarded the Philadelphia at Southampton.

This raises several questions:

• Was Abram a younger brother of Solomon?
• Was he traveling to America to settle Solomon’s estate?
• What other family connections might Solomon Banewer have had?

Solomon Banewer’s Place in Titanic History

While many details of Solomon Banewer’s life remain unknown, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the diverse lives touched by the Titanic tragedy. From his birth in Lithuania to his life in Boston, his travels across the Atlantic, and his final journey on the Titanic, Banewer’s experiences reflect the complex tapestry of immigration, commerce, and fate that characterized the early 20th century.