The Titanic and a French Bulldog named Gamin de Pycombe
Table of Contents
Disclaimer: This blog post is based on historical accounts and aims to share the story of a French Bulldog and its owner who were passengers on the Titanic. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, there may be some discrepancies due to the passage of time and the nature of historical records.
Introduction
Adopting a French Bulldog, or a Frenchie as we lovingly call them, is not just about bringing home a pet. It’s about welcoming a new member into your family, a companion with a rich history and a unique personality. And speaking of history, did you know that a Frenchie was aboard the ill-fated Titanic? Yes, you heard it right! A French Bulldog named Gamin de Pycombe was one of the twelve dogs onboard the Titanic. His story, along with the history of the breed, is as fascinating as it is heart-wrenching.
The Origin of French Bulldogs
The irresistible breed we know and love today was first bred in Nottingham in the 1800s by lace makers. Their goal was to create a small, miniature version of the English Bulldog. Some even called these dogs, “Toy Bulldogs.” In the 1860s, the craftsmen, now casualties of the Industrial Revolution, moved to France, and settled in Normandy with their dogs. These puppies were often acquired from breeders who considered them to be too small, or didn’t care for ears that – gasp – stood up like a bat’s. It is there that the dogs were given the name, French Bulldogs.
The Frenchie Nickname
French Bulldogs first appeared in the United States in 1896 at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog show in New York. It was then that they got their nickname, ‘Frenchie.’ The breed quickly gained popularity among American society ladies who first noted how fashionable the dogs were in Paris. It wasn’t unheard of for a French Bulldog in 1910 to sell for $3,000. To put this in perspective, the relative inflated value of $3,000 today is $81,827.87. Needless to say, it was the well-heeled with names like Rockefeller and J.P. Morgan who could afford these dogs.
The allure of the Frenchie wasn’t just their unique appearance, but also their charming personality. These dogs, with their bat-like ears and expressive eyes, were known for their affectionate and playful nature. They were, and still are, excellent companions, always ready to shower their owners with love and attention. This made them a hit not just with the elite, but with anyone who had the pleasure of meeting a Frenchie.
The nickname ‘Frenchie’ stuck and is now used affectionately by French Bulldog owners worldwide. It’s a term of endearment that reflects the breed’s French origins and their unique charm. Whether they’re strutting their stuff at a dog show or snuggling up with their owners at home, Frenchies continue to win hearts with their irresistible charm and loving nature.
Gamin de Pycombe: The Frenchie on the Titanic
One of these affluent owners was Robert Daniel, a 27-year-old banker who was returning to the United States from France with a brindle French Bulldog named Gamin de Pycombe. Gamin was sired by CH Charlemagne of Amersham, a French import to Britain who was Britain’s first pied champion Frenchie, and who later became the first French Bulldog to be a champion in both the UK and the United States. Robert had paid around $16,000 US dollars for Gamin, a testament to both his love for the breed and his wealth.
Sadly, the pair were coming home on the Titanic. Gamin was said to be staying in his owner’s cabin, and when another passenger, Edith Russell, walked down the hall on her way to the upper deck after the ship had hit the iceberg, she remembered hearing him whimper. Russell went into the cabin to calm him, and added in an interview given in 1966 that the dog was so scared that she petted him and laid him down on his bed. Gamin was very obedient and looked at her ever so sweetly as she left the cabin. Had she known how much danger they were in, she would have taken the dog with her.
The bond between Gamin and Robert was evident, and it’s heart-wrenching to think of the fear and confusion Gamin must have felt in those final moments. The story of Gamin de Pycombe serves as a poignant reminder of the deep love and companionship that French Bulldogs offer, and the lengths their owners will go to ensure their happiness and well-being.
The tale of Gamin de Pycombe also underscores the historical significance of French Bulldogs. From their origins in England and France to their journey across the Atlantic, French Bulldogs have been a part of some of the most significant events in history. Their presence on the Titanic is a testament to their enduring appeal and the special place they hold in the hearts of their owners.
The Tragic End to the Titanic and a French Bulldog
Another surviving passenger later reported having seen a French Bulldog swimming in the ocean so evidently, someone did let Gamin de Pycombe out of the cabin. However, the little dog didn’t survive the sinking. His owner, Robert Daniel, did survive and was reportedly devastated by the loss of his beloved pet. Robert went on to become a Virginia senator, but the loss of Gamin left a lasting impact on him.
The Legacy of Gamin de Pycombe
The story of Gamin de Pycombe is a poignant reminder of the deep bond between humans and their pets. It’s a testament to the love and companionship that French Bulldogs bring into our lives. Despite the tragic end, Gamin’s story lives on, a part of the rich history of the French Bulldog breed.
Conclusion
The tale of Gamin de Pycombe and the Titanic is a piece of history that intertwines the fate of a French Bulldog and his human. It’s a story of love, loss, and the enduring legacy of a breed that has captured the hearts of many. As we cuddle our Frenchies, let’s remember Gamin and the joy he brought to his owner, even in the face of tragedy.
FAQ to The Titanic and a French Bulldog
When did French Bulldogs first appear in the United States?
French Bulldogs first appeared in the United States in 1896 at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog show in New York.
How did French Bulldogs get their nickname ‘Frenchie’?
They got their nickname, ‘Frenchie,’ when they first appeared in the United States in 1896 at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog show in New York.
Who was Gamin de Pycombe?
Gamin de Pycombe was a brindle French Bulldog owned by Robert Daniel, a 27-year-old banker. He was one of the twelve dogs onboard the Titanic.
Did Gamin de Pycombe survive the sinking of the Titanic?
Gamin de Pycombe did not survive the sinking of the Titanic.
What is the legacy of Gamin de Pycombe?
The story of Gamin de Pycombe is a poignant reminder of the deep bond between humans and their pets. It’s a testament to the love and companionship that French Bulldogs bring into our lives.
Sources
This post is part of my History and Origin of French Bulldogs series.
Also check out these posts: The Fascinating History of French Bulldogs: From Bulldogs to Companions and The French Bulldog Heritage and Art
