Thomas Knowles Sold at Auction Prices

Thomas Knowles

Knowles saw service on several vessels before taking the place of a deserting crew member to have a chance to serve as a firemen's messman aboard the Titanic and survived the sinking in lifeboat Collapsible C. Certificate of Discharge, one page, 7.5 x 6, stamp-dated August 1, 1896. Knowles's discharge from the ship Norman, where he served in the capcity of a fireman. Certificate notes that Knowles served from May 1 to July 31 of 1896. Signed at the conclusion by the Norman's master and a representative from the shipping office. The discharge also bears two "V.G." stamps in areas for character of conduct and ability. In very good condition, with a central vertical fold, scattered creases and wrinkles, light toning, and show-through from old tape along one edge on reverse. Knowles's wife did not even know he was on board the Titanic until she received word that he had been saved.