Joseph Bruce Ismay 

Born on December 12th, 1862 at Crosby, near Liverpool.

Eldest son of Thomas Henry Ismay who was a senior partner in the firm of Ismay, Imrie and company and founder of the White Star Line.

He was educated at Elstree School and at Harrow before being apprenticed to his father’s office for four years.

Then after a one-year tour of the world, he returned to the White Star office for another year before being appointed the company agent in NY.

When his father died in 1899 Bruce became the head of the firm and the White Star Line. 

Ismay always accompanied ships on their maiden voyages, including the Titanic.

He boarded with his valet Richard Fry,and  secretary William Henry Harrison, and was assisted onboard by Steward Ernest Freeman.

He occupied one of the 4 parlor suites B52/54/56

During the disaster, Ismay was rescued in Collapsible C which he would be widely condemned for, called “Brute” Ismay for much of his life moving forward

He died on October 17th, 1937 leaving behind an estate worth £693,305 (£101,200,000, $125,150,000 today)

Pages

• The Passengers, First Class

• The Journey, Survivors

• The Boat, White Star Line Section