Edward John Smith (1850 - 1912), Captain of the Titanic

Hanley-born Smith was apprenticed at the Etruria Forge where he eventually operated the Nasmyth steam hammer. However, he was drawn by the experiences of his half brother, and moved to Liverpool in 1871 to begin an illustrious career at sea.

By the age of 24 he had passed his Master’s certificate and in 1880 joined the White Star Line. He quickly established himself as one of their leading commanders, a role that required highly developed social skills in addition to the extra master mariner’s certificate Smith had achieved.

Smith took out several of the White Star Line’s ships on their maiden voyage but his name is forever linked with the tragedy of the Titanic in 1912 when over 1,500 people, including Smith, lost their lives.