Harry Elkins Widener, American businessman (d. 1912)

Harry Elkins Widener (January 3, 1885 – April 15, 1912) was a prominent American figure whose life, though tragically cut short, left an indelible mark on the world of academia and philanthropy. A scion of the influential Widener family and a gifted businessman, he was particularly renowned for his profound passion for rare books, distinguishing him as a dedicated bibliophile.

A Passion for Books: Harry Widener's Bibliophilia

Widener's journey as a bibliophile began early, blossoming significantly during his time at Harvard University, where he graduated in 1907. His discerning eye and considerable family resources allowed him to assemble an impressive collection of rare books and manuscripts, focusing on literary first editions, incunabula, and significant historical documents. His collection included a notable acquisition of the first folio of Shakespeare and a rare first edition of Charles Lamb's "Essays of Elia," which he was particularly fond of. This deep engagement with literature and historical texts transcended mere hobby; it was a scholarly pursuit that enriched his life and promised a significant contribution to intellectual heritage.

The Tragic Voyage of the RMS Titanic

The culmination of Harry Elkins Widener's life occurred during the maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic. He was returning from Europe, having embarked on a successful book-buying expedition to enhance his already remarkable collection. On the night of April 15, 1912, the "unsinkable" liner struck an iceberg and foundered in the North Atlantic. Harry perished in the disaster, alongside his father, George D. Widener, and his father's valet, John B. Thayer. His mother, Eleanor Elkins Widener, and sister, Eleanor Widener Dixon, survived the tragedy, reaching safety aboard Lifeboat No. 4. Harry's death, at just 27 years old, was a profound loss to his family and the bibliophilic community.

A Lasting Legacy: The Widener Memorial Library at Harvard University

In the wake of this devastating loss, Harry's mother, Eleanor Elkins Widener, sought to create a monument that would honor his memory and perpetuate his intellectual passion. She generously donated funds to Harvard University, Harry's alma mater, to construct the Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library. Dedicated in 1915, this magnificent library stands as a testament to Harry's love for books and learning. It was designed to house his personal collection of approximately 3,300 rare books, which remains a core part of the library's vast holdings. A condition of the donation stipulated that Harry's collection must always be kept together and that no smoking would ever be permitted inside the building, reflecting Harry's personal habits and reverence for books. Today, the Widener Memorial Library is one of the largest academic libraries in the world, serving as the primary research library for Harvard's Faculty of Arts and Sciences, and a cornerstone of global scholarship.

Family Background and Influence

The Widener family was a prominent and affluent American dynasty, primarily based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Their immense wealth originated from streetcar systems, particularly through Harry's grandfather, Peter Arrell Browne Widener, a co-founder of the Philadelphia Traction Company and one of the wealthiest Americans of his time. This fortune enabled the family's significant philanthropic endeavors and cultural patronage, including Harry's extensive book collecting and the eventual establishment of the Harvard library.

Frequently Asked Questions about Harry Elkins Widener and the Widener Memorial Library

Who was Harry Elkins Widener?
Harry Elkins Widener (1885–1912) was an American businessman and a devoted bibliophile from the prominent Widener family. He was tragically lost in the RMS Titanic disaster, and his memory is honored through the Harvard University library named after him.
What was Harry Elkins Widener known for besides his family's wealth?
Beyond his family's significant wealth, Harry Elkins Widener was widely recognized for his exceptional passion for collecting rare books. He amassed a valuable collection of first editions, incunabula, and other significant literary works, which now forms a cornerstone of the Widener Memorial Library's holdings.
How did Harry Elkins Widener die?
Harry Elkins Widener perished on April 15, 1912, when the RMS Titanic, on which he was a passenger returning from a book-buying trip in Europe, struck an iceberg and sank in the North Atlantic. His father and valet also died in the tragedy.
What is the connection between Harry Elkins Widener and Harvard University?
Harry Elkins Widener was an alumnus of Harvard University (Class of 1907). Following his death, his mother, Eleanor Elkins Widener, funded the construction of the Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library at Harvard in his honor, housing his impressive collection of books.
What is the Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library?
The Harry Elkins Widener Memorial Library, located at Harvard University, is one of the world's largest academic libraries. It was built and endowed by Eleanor Elkins Widener in memory of her son, Harry, and serves as Harvard's primary research library for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences.
Are Harry Elkins Widener's books still housed in the Widener Library?
Yes, Harry Elkins Widener's personal collection of approximately 3,300 rare books and manuscripts forms a significant and treasured part of the Widener Memorial Library's Special Collections, precisely as stipulated by his mother's donation.