Benjamin Guggenheim, born in 1865 in Philadelphia, served as a prominent figure in American commerce before his life concluded on the RMS Titanic in 1912. The fifth of seven sons, he came from a family of Swiss Jewish descent, with his father Meyer Guggenheim rising from a humble background to become a significant mining magnate.
Early Education
Guggenheim attended Columbia College in 1882, joining the class of 1887. He left the institution during his second year, finding the curriculum unengaging. Subsequently, he enrolled at the Peirce School of Business, now known as Peirce College, to refine his professional skills.
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In 1894, he married Florette Seligman, the daughter of James and Rosa Seligman. The couple had three daughters: Benita Rosalind, Marguerite, and Barbara Hazel. Guggenheim spent significant time away from his New York residence due to extensive business obligations, eventually maintaining a private apartment in Paris, France.
The Final Voyage
Guggenheim boarded the RMS Titanic with his mistress Léontine Aubart, his secretary Victor Giglio, his chauffeur René Pernot, and Aubart's maid Emma Sägesser. Occupying cabin B84, he and his secretary remained in their quarters after the ship struck an iceberg. Once directed by bedroom steward Henry Etches to evacuate, Guggenheim assisted in ensuring the safety of women and children on the boat deck.
Conduct During the Sinking
Witness accounts from steward Henry Etches and survivor Rose Amelie Icard describe Guggenheim preparing for the end with composure. After removing his lifebelt, he dressed in formal evening wear, noting his desire to exit the situation like a gentleman. He spent his final hours helping officers load lifeboats and providing reassurance to passengers before he, Giglio, and Pernot perished in the North Atlantic. Their bodies were never recovered.
Fast facts
- Born: 1865, Philadelphia
- Died: 1912, North Atlantic Ocean
- Education: Columbia College, Peirce College
- Spouse: Florette Seligman
- Titanic Ticket Number: 17593
- Nationality: United States
- Occupation: Entrepreneur
Questions readers ask
Did Benjamin Guggenheim survive the Titanic disaster?
No, he died in the sinking on April 15, 1912, and his body was never recovered.
How was Guggenheim portrayed in later media?
He has been depicted in numerous film and television productions, including by actors such as Michael Ensign in the 1997 film Titanic and Harold Goldblatt in the 1958 film A Night to Remember.
Achievements
- Educated at Peirce College
- Worked as entrepreneur
