The sixth child born in the wealthy Guggenheim family, Benjamin Guggenheim, 46, was aboard the Titanic with his French mistress. The night of the sinking, Guggenheim and his secretary are said to have assisted women and children with getting on the lifeboats, all while dressed in their finest. The businessman later remarked, “we’ve dressed up in our best and are prepared to go down like gentlemen.” His final act was to write this message: “If anything should happen to me, tell my wife I’ve done my best in doing my duty.”
Famous Passengers Aboard the Titanic‘s Doomed Voyage
As the 100th anniversary of the ship's sinking approaches, we take a look back at the Titanic's notable passengers — and some who gained even more fame after surviving.