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Titanic’s maiden departure from Southampton

Captain Maurice Clarke, the Board of Trade Immigration Officer, arrived early that morning to observe the crew inspection and witness the lowering of two of the rear starboard lifeboats, the port side being against the dock. Fifth Officer Harold Lowe and Sixth Officer James Moody were designated to supervise the test – the only lifeboat drill ever carried out.

Thomas Andrews (Assistant Shipyard Manager) had written to his wife the previous night: ‘The Titanic is now about complete and will, I think, do the old firm credit tomorrow when we sail.’ He had arrived on board very early that morning.

White Star Line’s chairman and managing director, J. Bruce Ismay, with wife Julia and three of his children, came aboard at 9.30 that morning. His family did not travel but his valet and secretary accompanied him.