Scientists & Inventors · 19th Century
Thomas Andrews’s Last Words
“Aren't you going to try for it, man?”— Thomas Andrews, April 15, 1912
Who Was Thomas Andrews?
Thomas Andrews was the chief designer of the RMS Titanic and managing director of Harland and Wolff.
The Final Moments
Andrews was last seen in the first-class smoking room with his life jacket on the table. A steward asked if he would try for the lifeboats.
Are These Words Verified?
Steward John Stewart testified to these words in official inquiries shortly after the disaster. While firsthand testimony exists, Andrews died alone in the smoking room so no one witnessed his actual final moments.
Sources
- firsthand U.S. Senate Inquiry into Titanic Disaster (1912)
- archive British Wreck Commissioner's Inquiry
- firsthand Steward John Stewart testimony
Legacy
Andrews is remembered for his engineering genius and selfless behavior helping passengers into lifeboats.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Thomas Andrews’s last words?
“Aren't you going to try for it, man?”
How did Thomas Andrews die?
Thomas Andrews died on April 15, 1912 at the age of 39. Cause of death: Sinking of RMS Titanic.
Were Thomas Andrews’s last words documented?
Steward John Stewart testified to these words in official inquiries shortly after the disaster. While firsthand testimony exists, Andrews died alone in the smoking room so no one witnessed his actual final moments.
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