RMS Titanic 'The First Violin'

After extensive research through archives that started at the Ewart library Dumfries, the story of John took me to Canada for research at NSARM (Nova Scotia Archives & Record Management). As I am a relative it was important that this book was written with complete accuracy and avoided any form of guesswork or artistic licence. The Hume’s are all very proud of John; to continue to play on deck, to keep a sense of calm for the frightened passengers, is an action that leaves me feeling very emotional and proud. It is hard to believe that a 21 year old could be so brave.

One of the famous passengers:
The youngest and last surviving passenger of Titanic was Millvina Dean. I met her in her nursing home in Southampton, then aged 96. She was so pleased to be in touch with me as she always felt that the bandsmen were very courageous. In this biography I feel honoured to have a Foreword written by Millvina Dean. Millvina passed away on 31st May 2009 aged 97.

Horrible things happen:
My great grandfather, Andrew Hume, was naturally absolutely distraught at losing his eldest son. During this dreadful grief he received a bill, from ‘Black Bros. musical agency, for the cost of repairs to John’s uniform. John’s wages were also docked because he didn’t complete the journey!

About the book:
The book starts from the 1800’s and goes right through to 1914. I didn’t stop directly after the sinking because there was an incident of a court case between John’s fiancé, Mary Costin, and my great grandfather, Andrew Hume. In the book I also cover chapters on: The history of Dumfries, Musical heritage of the Hume family, about the other ‘White Star’ liners, The other band members, The iceberg, The aftermath, Millvina Dean and then the epilogue.The book is packed with illustrations, people living in Dumfries will no doubt find the historic pictures of the town fascinating.

*If you would like your copy signed and dedicated please contact me when ordering with the message you would like included*

Hardcover: 112 pages

Publisher: Stenlake Publishing (15 Mar 2011)

Language: English

ISBN:13: 978-1840335217
 

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+ £3.00 1st Class Recorded P&P (UK only)
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Review from The Scotsman Newspaper

Published Date: 22 May 2011
By Michael Kerrigan

Lavishly illustrated (everything from news clippings to concert programmes) this deeply moving book centres on the story of the author's great uncle, John Law Hume.

Patiently, it pieces together the Titanic story, showing how its narrative tragically converged with the lives of a group of jobbing musicians, unassuming and yet conscientious unto death.

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