Charles Lightoller
English 2nd Officer on the RMS Titanic
Charles Lightoller Rank
About Charles Lightoller
Charles Herbery Lightoller was a British mariner. He was the second officer on board one of the world’s most famous ship, the RMS Titanic. Lightoller was one of the few senior crew members to survive the ship’s sinking in April 1912.
Early Life
He was born in Lancashire, England. His mother died shortly after his birth, while his father left for New Zealand when he was a young boy.
Career
When he was 13, Lightoller started an apprenticeship on the vessel, Primhose Hill. He survived several dangers at sea, from fighting fires and repairing a ship during a smallpox epidemic. By the time he turned 21, he was a seasoned mariner and sailing expert. He also became a gold prospector and cowboy in North America before going back to England in 1899.
RMS Titanic Disaster
Lightoller joined the RMS Titanic as the second officer. On the night of the ship’s sinking, he had previously commanded the last watch shortly before the ship struck the iceberg. During the evacuation of passengers, he was responsible for ushering passengers onto the lifeboats. Lightoller mistook orders for “women and children only” to “women and children first”, a mishap that led to an inquisition. In 1997, Lightoller was portrayed by English actor Jonathan Phillips in the James Cameron-directed hit movie “Titanic”, which starred Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Winslet and Bill Paxton.
Personal Life and Death
He married Sylvia Hawley-Wilson in 1903 and they had five children. Lightoller, aged 78, died in December 1951 of chronic heart disease.
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F.A.Q. about Charles Lightoller
When is his birthday?
Charles Lightoller's birthday is on March 30, 1874.
In how many days is his birthday?
Charles' birthday is in 143 days
How old was Charles when he died?
He was 78 years old.
When did he die?
He died in December 8, 1952.
How old would he be today?
Charles Lightoller would be 150 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Charles from?
He was born in Chorley, Lancashire, England, UK.