Master Walter John van Billiard

Master Walter John van Billiard was a young American passenger aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Born on February 28, 1903, in France, Walter was just 9 (nine) years old when he embarked on what would become his final journey. His tragic story is a poignant reminder of the many young lives lost in one of history’s most infamous maritime disasters.

Early Life and Background

Walter John van Billiard was born to Austin Blyer van Billiard and Maude Murray. Despite his American nationality, Walter’s birthplace in France hints at an intriguing family history. As the younger son in the family, Walter likely enjoyed a close relationship with his older brother, James William van Billiard.

What was Walter’s family like?

The van Billiard family appeared to be a close-knit unit, as evidenced by their decision to travel together on the Titanic. Walter’s father, Austin Blyler van Billiard, accompanied his two young sons on their fateful journey, suggesting a protective and caring family dynamic.

The Titanic Journey

How did the van Billiards come to be on the Titanic?

Walter, along with his father and brother, boarded the Titanic at Southampton as third-class passengers. Their decision to travel on this magnificent ship was likely influenced by the Titanic’s reputation as an unsinkable marvel of modern engineering.

Ticket and Accommodation Details

• Class: 3rd Class
• Ticket Number: 851
• Fare: £14 10s

The family’s third-class accommodations, while not as luxurious as the upper decks, still offered comfort and amenities that were impressive for steerage passengers of the time.

Fate During the Disaster

Tragically, Walter John van Billiard did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. The young boy, at just 9 (nine) years old, became one of the many victims of the Titanic disaster. The sinking occurred on April 15, 1912, marking the end of Walter’s short life.

What happened to Walter’s body?

In a heart-wrenching twist of fate, Walter’s body was the first to be recovered by the Mackay Bennett, the ship sent to retrieve victims from the disaster site. His body was identified as:

NO. 1. - MALE. - ESTIMATED AGE. - 10-12. - HAIR. LIGHT.

The description of his recovered body provides a poignant glimpse into the young life lost:

• Clothing:

  • Grey overcoat
  • One grey coat
  • One blue coat
  • Grey woolen jersey
  • White shirt
  • Grey knickers
  • Black stockings
  • Black boots

• Effects:

  • Purse containing few Danish coins and a ring
  • Two handkerchiefs marked “A”

Legacy and Final Resting Place

Following the recovery of his body, Walter’s remains were initially returned to Halifax. After communication on May 2, his body, along with his father’s, was forwarded to North Wales, Pennsylvania.

Where is Walter buried?

Walter van Billiard and his father were laid to rest at Union Cemetery, Zion Lutheran Church, in Flourtown, Pennsylvania. This final resting place serves as a somber memorial to the young life cut tragically short and the family torn apart by the Titanic disaster.

The story of Walter John van Billiard, one of the youngest third-class passengers on the Titanic, continues to resonate more than a century later. His tale serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the disaster, particularly its impact on the youngest and most vulnerable passengers.