A newspaper describing the devastation caused by the sinking of the Titanic has been found hidden in a cupboard after 112 years. daily MirrorThis article, published on April 20, 1912 – five days after the tragedy – was found in a house in Lichfield, Staffordshire. Its front-page story depicts the anguish of passengers’ relatives in Southampton, who were desperately waiting for news of their loved ones from the list of survivors. Independent Report.
Hanson AuctioneersThis week the newspaper, Seller, described the discovery as “a valuable piece of social history”.
“The sinking of the Titanic has been extensively documented in movies, TV shows and books, and we know a great deal about the lives lost. This discovery serves as a poignant reminder to the many grieving families and friends – grieving mothers, fathers and wives,” said auction house owner Charles Hanson.
The Titanic, described as “practically unsinkable” before its maiden voyage, is one of the deadliest maritime disasters in history. More than 1,500 people were killed when it collided with an iceberg in the North Atlantic, of whom only 700 survived. Although the ship carried a small number of lifeboats, many were lowered half empty as it was widely believed that the Titanic could not sink.
Southampton, home to most of the ship’s crew, was particularly badly affected by the disaster. The Daily Mirror described the scene outside the White Star Line offices, where lists of survivors were displayed: “The list of those saved was hung up outside the White Star offices, and mothers and wives who had been hoping against hope read the names anxiously, only to find that their worst fears had come true. In this appalling disaster mothers have been robbed of their sons, wives of their husbands, and young girls of their lovers.”
The newspaper called the publication of the list of survivors “a terrible day in the city’s history,” although it ended all suspense. The cover story was complemented by a two-page spread with photographs of the victims, including Titanic captain Edward Smith.
This piece of maritime and social history sold for £34 at auction on Tuesday, August 20. The auctioneer said stories about sinkings often focus on the victims, but the newspaper’s emphasis on the families left behind is what makes it so fascinating. “When you see the faces of those affected, it’s very touching,” Mr Hanson said.
The newspaper was found along with other historical documents, including those relating to the coronation of King George V in 1911.