Edward John Smith was born in Stoke-on-Trent on the 27th January
1850. He went to school until 13.
Seven years after joining the White Star line, he received his
first command. He went on to command at least 7 other ships.
He became Commodore of the White Star fleet in 1904. It became a
tradition for him to command the maiden Voyages of all the newest
and finest additions.
Edward had a young daughter, Helen and lived with her and his
wife, Eleanor, in Winn Road, Southampton. He was last seen on the
bridge, just before 'Titanic' went under so it is universally
recognised that he died in the disaster.
Some survivors report seeing him in the water after the 'Titanic' went under, but these are not based on enough factual evidence to be considered true; but it is very likely that he wouldn't of given up ever. He was 62 years old and the Titanic's maiden voyage was, allegedly, his final voyage before retirement.
Captain Smith once said; "In a way, a certain amount of wonder never leaves me, especially as I observe from the bridge a vessel plunging up and down in the trough of the sea, fighting her way through and over great waves. A man never outgrows that."
"This crew knew him to be a good, kind-hearted man, and we looked up to him as a sort of father." A Steward.
"He was a great favourite and a man any Officer would
give his ears to work under. My first thought was I'll bet he's
got a voice like a foghorn. As a matter of fact he had a pleasant
quiet voice and invariable smile. A voice he rarely raised above
a conversational tone; not to say he couldn't. In fact I have
often heard him bark an order that made a man come to himself
with a bump." Second Officer of the 'Titanic' Charles
Lightoller.
Captain Smith held the extra Masters certificate.