Mrs Virginia Estelle Clark

Who was Virginia Estelle Clark?

Virginia Estelle Clark was a 26 (twenty-six) year old American first-class passenger aboard the RMS Titanic. Born on May 30, 1885, in Helena, Montana, she survived the tragic sinking of the ship on April 15, 1912. Her life was marked by both privilege and tragedy, as she experienced the loss of her husband in the disaster and went on to lead a life filled with travel, multiple marriages, and personal challenges.

Early Life and Background

Virginia Estelle Clark, née McDowell, came from a notable family background:

• Only child of Samuel Kendrick McDowell (1858-1902) and Addie May Caldwell (1862-1940)
• Father was a US deputy marshal born in Illinois to Irish immigrant parents
• Mother hailed from Colorado

Growing up in Helena, Montana, Virginia’s early life was one of relative comfort. The family resided at 416 5th Avenue, as recorded in the 1900 census. Tragically, her father passed away on December 1, 1902, when Virginia was just 17 (seventeen) years old.

Marriage to Walter Miller Clark

Virginia’s life took a new turn when she met Walter Miller Clark, a Montana native residing in Los Angeles. Their relationship blossomed, leading to their marriage on January 5, 1909, in New York at the home of Virginia’s uncle, George McDowell.

Key details of their married life include:

• Settled in Los Angeles, California
• Lived on Severance Street
• Had one child, James Ross Clark, born on April 24, 1910

The Fateful Titanic Journey

Why were the Clarks on the Titanic?

The Clarks boarded the Titanic as part of a belated honeymoon trip to Europe. They decided to cut their trip short to return home for their son’s second birthday celebration.

“Virginia and Walter took a belated honeymoon to Europe in early 1912 but cut their trip short to return home and celebrate their son’s birthday.”

Titanic Boarding Details

• Class: First Class
• Port of Embarkation: Cherbourg
• Date of Boarding: April 10, 1912
• Ticket Number: 13508
• Cabin: C89
• Fare: £136 15s 7d

The Night of the Disaster

Virginia’s experience on the night of April 14-15, 1912, was harrowing:

1. She was alone in her cabin when the collision occurred
2. Despite the slight impact, she sensed something was wrong
3. She found her husband playing cards in the smoking room
4. They inquired about the situation but were assured there was no danger
5. Upon returning to their cabin, they saw a man with a lifejacket
6. They dressed warmly and proceeded to the boat deck

Virginia’s Rescue

Mrs. Clark was compelled to enter lifeboat 4 by an officer, leaving her husband behind. She recalled:

• Mrs. Astor was also in the same lifeboat
• Mrs. Astor insisted on turning the boat around to rescue more people
• They pulled about eight crewmen from the water
• Virginia witnessed the “heartrending moans and cries” of those struggling in the water

Life After the Titanic

Virginia’s life following the Titanic disaster was marked by significant changes and challenges:

Multiple Marriages

1. John Stewart Tanner (married September 26, 1912)
2. Louis Harold Rush (married May 18, 1927)
3. Remarried John Stewart Tanner in the 1930s

Custody Battle

Virginia’s hasty remarriage and extended absences led to a custody battle over her son, James Ross Clark. The court awarded joint guardianship between Virginia’s mother and her late husband’s parents.

Travel and Residences

• Lived in France until 1914
• Applied for a US passport in 1922 to visit various European countries
• Resided in Honolulu, Hawaii (as per the 1940 census)

Virginia’s Later Years and Legacy

Virginia Estelle Clark Tanner lived a long life, passing away on December 21, 1958, in Los Angeles at the age of 73 (seventy-three). She was buried alongside her husband, John Tanner, who had died two years earlier.

Her son, James Ross Clark, outlived her by only a few years, passing away on February 24, 1962, in Riverside, California.

Virginia’s life story serves as a testament to the resilience of Titanic survivors, showcasing how the tragedy impacted lives far beyond the night of April 15, 1912. Her experiences aboard the Titanic and her subsequent life journey continue to fascinate historians and enthusiasts, providing valuable insights into the lives of first-class passengers during this pivotal moment in maritime history.