Rose Dewitt Bukater
I remember the time I set sailed on the SSR Titanic. Remembering the famous, huge ship brought back memories of a young lady who had determination to save someone. She touched my life, and I still remember them always. The young woman’s name was Rose Dewitt Bukater. She and I were the same age. We were 17 and going on a voyage. She told me a lot about herself. Her father died, and that left rose and her mother (Ruth) with nothing. Her sad story was similar to mine. She was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1895. She was first class, along with her fiancé Caledon Hockley, and mother Ruth Dewitt Bukater. She and I became close on the Titanic voyage. She told me all about her fiancé she really never loved. Rose never seemed happy when he came around. At times she told me her life was nothing more than marrying a guy she doesn’t even love. I tried giving her advice. She found Jack at a time she was about to give up all hope. They quickly fell in love and became a couple. The time the ship was sinking, she would not leave Jack’s side. I tried urging her to come along, but she did not want to go unless Jack was with her. Those words touched me that I stayed and helped her get Jack to safety. Sadly, he died and she lived to be 101. She died in 1997. What I will remember most about Rose is she was determined and had a kind heart. One of Rose’s greatest accomplishments, I think, was finally being happy, loving, and really wanting to marry Jack. I will always remember the person that touched my life, Rose Dewitt Bukater.

Written by: Autumn M. Burks