Miss Victorine Chaudanson

Who was Victorine Chaudanson?

Miss Victorine Chaudanson was a 36 (thirty-six) year-old French first-class passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born on September 28, 1875, in Mayres, Ardèche, France, she worked as a personal maid for wealthy families and survived the tragic sinking of the Titanic on April 15, 1912.

Early Life and Background

What was Victorine’s upbringing like?

Victorine Chaudanson was born to Pierre André Chaudanson and Rose Ciellier. She spent much of her formative years in Paris with a sister, where she received her education. This Parisian upbringing likely prepared her for her future career serving wealthy families.

How did Victorine begin her career?

After completing her education, Victorine found employment as a maid for various affluent families. Her career path led her to emigrate to the United States in 1908, arriving in New York aboard the Oceanic on June 24 of that year.

Titanic Journey

Why was Victorine on the Titanic?

In early 1912, Miss Chaudanson was in Europe with her employers, the Ryerson family. The Ryersons had received news of their son’s death in America and decided to return hastily. This led to their booking passage on the Titanic, with Victorine accompanying them as part of their staff.

What were the details of Victorine’s Titanic ticket?

• Class: First Class
• Ticket Number: 17608
• Cabin: B61
• Fare: £262 7s 6d

Who were Victorine’s employers on the Titanic?

Victorine was employed by the Arthur Larned Ryerson family. She had been working for them since at least 1910, as evidenced by census records showing her residing with the family in Cooperstown, Springfield, Ostego, New York.

The Night of the Disaster

What happened to Victorine during the sinking?

On the night of April 14-15, 1912, Victorine experienced a harrowing series of events:

1. She accompanied the Ryersons to the boat deck.
2. She was sent to retrieve valuables from the Ryersons’ stateroom.
3. While in the cabin, she was accidentally locked in by a steward securing the rooms.
4. She screamed, alerting the steward who then unlocked the door.
5. Upon returning to the upper decks, Mr. Ryerson gave her his lifebelt as she had none.

How did Victorine survive the sinking?

Miss Chaudanson survived the sinking by escaping in lifeboat 4 along with Emily Borie Ryerson and her children. This lifeboat was one of the last to be launched from the Titanic.

Life After the Titanic

Did the Titanic disaster impact Victorine’s personal life?

Surprisingly, Victorine’s life took a positive turn shortly after the disaster. She married Henry Perkins, the Ryerson family’s English chauffeur, on June 3, 1912, less than two months after the sinking. Their son, George Henry, was born in Boston the following year on March 12, 1913.

Where did Victorine settle after her marriage?

The Perkins family made their home in Manhattan:

• 1920-1930: Resided at 350 East 67th Street
• 1940: Moved to 218 East 66th Street

How did Victorine contribute to Titanic history?

During the 1950s, Victorine shared her experiences with Walter Lord, who was writing the book “A Night to Remember.” Her account was included in this seminal work on the Titanic disaster, published in 1956.

Victorine’s Later Years and Legacy

When did Victorine pass away?

Victorine Perkins, née Chaudanson, died at the age of 86 (eighty-six) on August 13, 1962, in Springfield, Delaware, Pennsylvania. She suffered a stroke before her passing.

Where is Victorine buried?

Victorine was laid to rest alongside her husband at St. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Broomall, Pennsylvania.

What became of Victorine’s family?

Victorine’s son, George, followed a different career path from his parents:

• Became a marine engineer
• Married and raised a family
• Retired to Clearwater, Florida
• Passed away on September 3, 2002

Victorine Chaudanson’s journey from a French maid to a Titanic survivor and her subsequent life in America is a testament to the resilience of those who lived through one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters. Her story, preserved through her contributions to historical accounts, continues to provide valuable insights into the experiences of Titanic passengers and the impact of the tragedy on their lives.