Helen Churchill Candee

Helen candee 1901

Helen Churchill Candee (October 5, 1858 – August 23, 1949) was an American author, journalist, interior decorator, and feminist. Born in New York City, Candee was a prominent figure in the early 20th century, known for her contributions to various fields, including her survival of the RMS Titanic disaster in 1912.

Early Life

Helen Churchill was born to Henry and Mary Churchill in New York City. The details of her early education are not well-documented, but she showed an early interest in writing and social issues. In 1880, she married Edward Candee, but the marriage ended in divorce, leaving Helen to support her two children on her own. This challenge led her to pursue a career in writing and journalism.

Career

Candee's career began in earnest in the late 19th century. She wrote for several magazines and newspapers, covering a wide range of topics from social issues to travel. Her feminist views were evident in her writings, advocating for women's rights and suffrage.

In addition to her journalistic work, Candee was also an accomplished interior decorator. She was considered a pioneer in the field, blending historical accuracy with modern aesthetics. Her book, The Tapestry Book (1912), reflects her deep knowledge and appreciation for decorative arts.

Candee's interest in travel and history led her to write several books on these subjects, including How Women May Earn a Living (1900), which offered practical advice for women seeking independence through work, and Angkor the Magnificent (1924), about the ancient Cambodian temple complex.

Titanic Survival

Helen Churchill Candee was a first-class passenger on the maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic in April 1912. When the ship struck an iceberg and sank, Candee was injured but survived by boarding Lifeboat 6. Her experience on the Titanic was later recounted in several publications, adding to her fame.

Later Life and Legacy

After the Titanic disaster, Candee continued to travel, write, and advocate for women's rights. She spent her later years in Europe, particularly in Italy, where she continued to write and explore. Candee passed away in 1949 at the age of 90.

Helen Churchill Candee's life and work left a significant impact on American culture and feminism. Her writings not only provided insights into the social issues of her time but also inspired future generations of women to pursue independence and careers in various fields.

Selected Works

• How Women May Earn a Living (1900)
• The Tapestry Book (1912)
• Angkor the Magnificent (1924)

See Also

• RMS Titanic
• Feminism in the United States
• History of interior design