Thomas Drake Martinez Cardeza

Who was Thomas Drake Martinez Cardeza?

Thomas Drake Martinez Cardeza was a 36 (thirty-six) year-old American gentleman and wealthy banker from Germantown, Pennsylvania, who survived the sinking of the RMS Titanic. As a first-class passenger, Cardeza experienced one of the most luxurious accommodations on the ill-fated ship and went on to lead an eventful life after the disaster.

Early Life and Background

Born on May 10, 1875, Thomas Cardeza came from a privileged background. His status as a gentleman and banker suggests he was well-educated and held a prominent position in society. Cardeza was married to Mary B. M. Racine, who was born on March 27, 1880, in Besançon, France, and had emigrated to America in 1883.

The Titanic Journey

How did Cardeza board the Titanic?

Thomas Cardeza boarded the RMS Titanic at Cherbourg, France, accompanied by his mother, Charlotte Wardle Cardeza, and his manservant, Louis Gustave Joseph Lesueur. The Cardeza party traveled in style, occupying one of the two most luxurious suites on board the ship.

What were the details of Cardeza’s accommodations?

The Cardeza family’s accommodations on the Titanic were nothing short of extravagant:

• Cabin: B51/53/55
• Ticket Number: 17755
• Fare: £512 6s (512 pounds, 6 shillings)

This suite was among the most expensive and opulent on the entire ship, reflecting the Cardeza family’s wealth and social status.

Fate During the Disaster

How did Thomas Cardeza survive the Titanic sinking?

When the Titanic struck an iceberg on April 14, 1912, Thomas Cardeza, his mother, and their servants were among the fortunate passengers who managed to escape the sinking ship. They were rescued in lifeboat 3, which was one of the first lifeboats to be launched from the starboard side of the vessel.

Cardeza’s survival as a first-class male passenger was relatively rare, as many men from this class perished due to the “women and children first” protocol.

Life After the Titanic

What did Thomas Cardeza do after surviving the Titanic?

Following the Titanic disaster, Thomas Cardeza went on to lead an interesting and varied life:

1. Diplomatic Career: During World War I, Cardeza worked as a diplomat, serving as an assistant commissioner in Vienna, Austria-Hungary.
2. Transatlantic Travel: His wife, Marie (Mary), made numerous trips across the Atlantic to visit him during his diplomatic posting.
3. Personal Life: Cardeza’s wife, Mary Racine Cardeza, passed away in 1943.

Legacy and Final Years

Thomas Drake Martinez Cardeza lived a long life after surviving one of the most famous maritime disasters in history. He passed away on June 6, 1952, at the age of 77 (seventy-seven). Cardeza was laid to rest beside his mother at West Laurel Hill Cemetery in Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, bringing closure to a life marked by luxury, survival, and service.

Connections to Other Titanic Passengers

Apart from his mother and manservant, Cardeza was also acquainted with Annie Moore Ward, another Titanic survivor. These connections highlight the intricate web of relationships among the ship’s passengers, particularly those in first class.

Thomas Drake Martinez Cardeza’s story serves as a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Titanic’s wealthiest passengers and their experiences before, during, and long after the tragic voyage.