The handwritten letter, dated 10 April 1912, captures Gracie's reflections as he prepared for his voyage aboard the Titanic. He wrote to an acquaintance, expressing a desire to wait until the end of his journey to pass judgment on "the fine ship". Just five days later, the Titanic would infamously strike an iceberg, leading to the deaths of over 1,500 souls onboard.
Col Gracie, traveling in first-class, wrote the letter from cabin C51 and it was mailed while the ship was anchored in Queenstown, Ireland, before continuing to New York. The auctioneer noted that this correspondence holds the title for the highest-priced letter written on the Titanic. Gracie later authored the book "The Truth About The Titanic," detailing his harrowing experience during the disaster, including his struggle for survival atop an overturned lifeboat. While he managed to live on, the tragedy took a toll on his health, leading to his death shortly after the incident.
This record-breaking sale not only highlights the historical significance of the Titanic but also underscores the enduring fascination with the maritime disaster that has captivated generations.
Col Gracie, traveling in first-class, wrote the letter from cabin C51 and it was mailed while the ship was anchored in Queenstown, Ireland, before continuing to New York. The auctioneer noted that this correspondence holds the title for the highest-priced letter written on the Titanic. Gracie later authored the book "The Truth About The Titanic," detailing his harrowing experience during the disaster, including his struggle for survival atop an overturned lifeboat. While he managed to live on, the tragedy took a toll on his health, leading to his death shortly after the incident.
This record-breaking sale not only highlights the historical significance of the Titanic but also underscores the enduring fascination with the maritime disaster that has captivated generations.
