The sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912, remains one of the most tragic maritime disasters in history, resulting in the loss of over 1,500 lives.
Among the passengers and crew were several Freemasons, a fraternal organization with a rich history and global presence.
These individuals hailed from diverse backgrounds, including politics, business, and the arts, and their stories offer a unique perspective on the human experiences aboard the ill-fated vessel.
This article delves into the lives of notable Freemasons who were on the Titanic, exploring their personal histories, Masonic affiliations, and the roles they played during the voyage.
By examining their experiences, we gain insight into the broader social fabric of the early 20th century and the impact of Freemasonry during that era.
Their stories not only commemorate their lives but also underscore the widespread influence and camaraderie of the Freemason fraternity during one of history’s most poignant tragedies.
Major Archibald Willingham Butt
Major Archibald Willingham Butt was born on September 26, 1865, in Augusta, Georgia. He had a distinguished career as a military aide to U.S. Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft.
In early 1912, due to health concerns stemming from the political tensions between Roosevelt and Taft, Butt took a six-week leave to Europe.
He was returning to the United States aboard the Titanic, accompanied by his close friend, painter Francis Davis Millet.
Tragically, both men perished when the ship sank on April 15, 1912. Major Butt was 46 years old at the time of his death.
His Masonic affiliations are not extensively documented, but his service and dedication to duty remain well-recognized.
Henry B. Harris
Henry Birkhardt Harris was a prominent theatrical producer and manager in New York City. Born on December 1, 1866, he became a significant figure in the American theater scene.
Harris was a member of Munn Lodge No. 190. In April 1912, he boarded the Titanic with his wife, Irene, returning from a European trip.
After the ship struck the iceberg, Harris ensured his wife secured a place in a lifeboat, but he chose to remain on board. He did not survive the disaster and was 45 years old at the time of his death.
Harry Markland Molson
Harry Markland Molson, born on August 9, 1856, in Montreal, Canada East, was a Canadian politician and entrepreneur, and a member of the prominent Molson family.
He served as the Mayor of Dorval, Quebec, and was the Worshipful Master of St. Paul’s Lodge No. 374 in Montreal. In February 1912, Molson traveled to England for business and was persuaded to return to Canada aboard the Titanic’s maiden voyage.
He occupied First Class stateroom C-30. Molson was last seen aboard the Titanic, removing his shoes and planning to swim towards a ship’s light he believed he saw off the port bow.
His body was never recovered, and he was 55 years old at the time of his death.
Oscar S. Woody
Oscar Scott Woody was born on April 15, 1868, in Roxboro, North Carolina. He became a member of Acacia Lodge No. 16 in Clifton, Virginia, raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on August 30, 1903.
Woody served as a postal clerk for 15 years on trains between Greensboro, NC, and Washington, D.C., before being assigned as a Sea Post Office Clerk aboard the Titanic.
On the night of the sinking, Woody and his fellow postal clerks attempted to save the mail, moving sacks from G deck to C deck. Tragically, he perished on his 44th birthday, April 15, 1912.
His body was recovered by the cable ship Mackay-Bennett and was buried at sea on April 24, 1912. Among his recovered personal effects was a Masonic pocket knife, now housed in the Stephen J. Ponzillo, Jr. Memorial Library & Museum at the Grand Lodge of Maryland.
John Hardy
John Hardy served as the Second-Class Chief Steward aboard the Titanic.
He had been employed with the White Star Line for 12 years, serving on ships like the Majestic, Adriatic, Olympic, and Teutonic before joining the Titanic.
On the night of April 14, 1912, Hardy retired to his room around 11:25 p.m. After feeling a slight shock from the collision, he was roused by the Chief First-Class Steward and informed that the ship was taking on water.
Hardy assisted passengers in donning life belts and helped Second Officer Charles Lightoller in loading lifeboats. He eventually boarded Collapsible D and was rescued by the Carpathia.
After the disaster, Hardy and his family emigrated to the United States. He passed away in Maplewood, New Jersey, on October 7, 1953.
Herbert Pitman
Herbert John Pitman was born on November 20, 1877, in Somerset, England.
He served as the Third Officer on the Titanic. At the time of the collision, Pitman was off-duty in his bunk. After the impact, he was instructed to assist in uncovering lifeboats on the starboard side.
First Officer Murdoch ordered Pitman to take charge of Lifeboat No. 5. Initially believing the evacuation was precautionary, Pitman later realized the ship’s dire situation and moved the lifeboat further away as the Titanic sank.
He survived the disaster and continued his maritime career.
Pitman passed away on December 7, 1961, at the age of 84.
These individuals exemplify the diverse backgrounds and stories of the Freemasons aboard the Titanic, each leaving a unique legacy intertwined with the ship’s tragic history.
More Lists of Masons…
9 Famous Men You Did Not Know Are Freemasons
15 Kings Who Were Freemasons (The Kings of Freemasonry)
15 US Presidents Who Were Freemasons (The Complete List)