Samuel Ward Stanton Paintings

Samuel Ward Stanton was an American artist, illustrator, and maritime historian born on December 22, 1870, in New York City. Not much is known about his early life and artistic education, but he is recognized for his passion and dedication to maritime subjects. Stanton had a profound interest in ships, and his work often focused on the detailed illustration of various vessels, from historical sailing ships to contemporary steamships of his time.

Stanton’s work was characterized by its accuracy and attention to detail, which made him a respected illustrator among maritime enthusiasts. He created a series of illustrations that were later compiled into a book titled 'American Steam Vessels', published in 1895. This book is considered an important historical document as it meticulously catalogs a wide array of American steamships with rich illustrations and descriptions, serving as a valuable resource for those interested in maritime history.

Tragically, Stanton's life and career were cut short when he died in the sinking of the RMS Titanic on April 15, 1912. He was aboard the Titanic as a first-class passenger, likely crossing the Atlantic for reasons related to his work. His death at the age of 41 meant the loss of a talented artist and historian whose contributions to the documentation of maritime history were significant. Despite his premature death, Stanton left behind a legacy as a dedicated illustrator of ships, and his works continue to be appreciated by maritime historians and enthusiasts alike.