Sea Stories

I BID! SOLD – TITANIC VIOLIN GOES FOR $2.1 MILLION

NOTE: Our News and Views stories are contributed and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editor. 

The violin shown in the image is famously associated with Wallace Hartley, the bandleader of the Titanic’s orchestra. Here are some fascinating facts about this violin and its significance:

1. Wallace Hartley’s Violin:

• This violin was owned and played by Wallace Hartley, who led the Titanic’s band during its final moments. The band famously continued playing music to calm passengers as the ship sank.

2. Historical Significance:

• The violin became a symbol of courage and devotion to duty, as Hartley and his bandmates chose to play music rather than save themselves, ultimately perishing in the disaster.

3. Engraving:

• The violin bears the initials ‘W.H.H.’ (Wallace Henry Hartley). It was a gift from his fiancée, Maria Robinson, as a token of their love.

4. Survival and Recovery:

• The violin was recovered from Hartley’s body, found in a leather case strapped to him. It was later returned to Maria Robinson, who preserved it as a memento of their love.

5. Rediscovery:

• The violin was rediscovered in 2006 and underwent extensive authentication processes to confirm its provenance, including forensic testing.

6. Auction Record:

• In 2013, the violin was auctioned for £1.7 million ($2.1 million), making it one of the most expensive Titanic artifacts ever sold.

7. Museum Display:

• Before being sold, the violin was displayed at several Titanic-related exhibitions and museums, drawing significant public attention.

8. Legacy:

• The violin is not only a piece of Titanic history but also a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the tragedy.

This violin continues to inspire awe and admiration, symbolizing sacrifice, love, and the enduring legacy of the Titanic’s band. PLEASE ENLIGHTEN OTHERS BY SHARING OUR STORIES

THE LEAVING OF LIVERPOOL  ex-Liverpool seaman Michael Walsh. Bestseller: 70 stories and over 100 pictures. A first-hand account of the British ships, seafarers, adventures and misadventures (1955 – 1975). A tribute to the ships and seamen of the then-largest merchant marine in history. LINKS TO BOOKSTORE CLICK PICTURE OR LINK https://michaelwalshbooks.wordpress.com/

THE LEAVING OF LIVERPOOL  ex-Liverpool seaman Michael Walsh. Bestseller: 70 stories and over 100 pictures. A first-hand account of the British ships, seafarers, adventures and misadventures (1955 – 1975). A tribute to the ships and seamen of the then-largest merchant marine in history. LINKS TO BOOKSTORE CLICK PICTURE OR LINK https://michaelwalshbooks.wordpress.com/

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