Mary Sloan – Biography

Mary Sloan was a stewardess from Belfast who served as part of the crew aboard the RMS Titanic during its maiden voyage in April 1912.

Early life and career

She was born in Belfast in 1866 and later went to sea as part of the White Star Line’s stewardess staff. Before joining Titanic, she had already worked on its sister ship, the Olympic, gaining experience in passenger service.

Role on Titanic

As a stewardess, Sloan’s duties involved looking after passengers—particularly women—by assisting with cabins, clothing, and general comfort throughout the voyage. When the ship struck an iceberg and the evacuation began, stewardesses were instructed to help distribute supplies and guide passengers to the lifeboats.

The sinking and survival

During the RMS Titanic sinking, Mary Sloan remained on duty, helping women and children reach safety. Accounts indicate that she was forced or strongly urged into a lifeboat late in the evacuation, rather than leaving voluntarily.

She survived the disaster and was among those rescued after the ship sank.

Aftermath

Following her rescue by the Carpathia, Sloan travelled to New York and later returned home. She continued her life after the disaster and lived until 1953.