William Foley: A Young Irish Passenger on the Titanic

Who was William Foley?

William Foley was a 20 (twenty) year-old Irish farm labourer who tragically lost his life in the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Born on December 25, 1891, in Commeenaplaw, Gowlane, Donoughmore, County Cork, Ireland, Foley was one of many third-class passengers seeking a new life in America aboard the ill-fated ship.

Early Life and Background

A Large Irish Farming Family

William Foley came from a Roman Catholic farming family in County Cork, Ireland. He was the youngest of seven children born to John Foley (b. 1836) and Ellen Cremin (b. 1845). His siblings were:

• Mary (b. 1877)
• Jeremiah (b. November 1878)
• Julia (b. September 22, 1880)
• John (b. January 22, 1883)
• Michael (b. October 30, 1885)
• Denis (b. December 16, 1890)

Life in Commeenaplaw

The Foley family’s roots were deeply embedded in the rural landscape of Commeenaplaw. Census records provide a glimpse into William’s early life:

• 1901 Census: William lived at house 1 in Commeenaplaw
• 1911 Census: The family had moved to house 5 in the same area

By 1911, William was described as a farmer’s son, still living with his parents and several siblings. Interestingly, the household was bilingual, speaking both Irish and English, highlighting their connection to traditional Irish culture.

The Journey to Titanic

Why Did William Foley Leave Ireland?

William Foley decided to embark on a life-changing journey to New York, following in the footsteps of his siblings Jeremiah and Julia. This decision was common among young Irish people of the time, seeking better opportunities across the Atlantic.

“He decided to join his siblings Jeremiah and Julia in New York, the latter of whom had saved the money for his passage.”

Preparations for the Voyage

William’s journey was made possible by the generosity of his sister Julia, who had saved the money for his passage. This act of familial support was crucial in enabling William to pursue his dreams in America.

The Titanic Experience

Boarding at Queenstown

William Foley boarded the Titanic at Queenstown (now Cobh) on April 11, 1912. He was accompanied by Hannah Naughton, another resident from Donoughmore, adding a touch of familiarity to the daunting journey ahead.

Ticket and Accommodation Details

The Tragic Fate of William Foley

What Happened to William During the Disaster?

Sadly, William Foley did not survive the sinking of the Titanic. As a third-class passenger, his chances of survival were significantly lower than those in first or second class.

The Search for William

William’s body, if recovered, was never identified. This lack of closure was a common and heartbreaking reality for many families of Titanic victims.

Legacy and Remembrance

How is William Foley Remembered?

While William Foley’s life was cut tragically short at the age of 20 (twenty), his story serves as a poignant reminder of the many young lives lost in the Titanic disaster. He represents the hopes and dreams of countless Irish immigrants who sought a better life in America, only to have their journeys end in tragedy.

The Foley Family’s Loss

The loss of William must have been devastating for the Foley family, especially considering that he was the youngest of seven children. His story is a testament to the far-reaching impact of the Titanic disaster on families and communities across Ireland and beyond.

William Foley’s tale, though brief, is an integral part of the Titanic’s complex history, reminding us of the individual stories behind one of the most famous maritime disasters in history.