Wreck Wood Vanity Box

This finely crafted vanity box, made from wood salvaged from the wreckage of the RMS Titanic, is a striking example of the artistry that emerged from the aftermath of the disaster. Constructed by William Parker, the carpenter aboard the C.S. Minia—one of the cable ships tasked with recovering bodies and debris from the North Atlantic—this piece reflects both skilled craftsmanship and the deep historical significance of the materials used.

The box is composed of various types of wood recovered from the wreck site, including mahogany, oak, and English walnut, materials once part of Titanic’s luxurious interior. The hinged lid features an inset mirror, transforming the piece into a functional and elegant personal item. The attention to detail in the construction suggests it was created with care and reverence as a way to preserve and repurpose materials from the ill-fated liner.

Similar in craftsmanship to Parker’s other known cribbage boards and chess boards, this vanity box is one of a select number of Titanic wreck wood artifacts known to exist. Items such as this offer a rare, tangible connection to Titanic, serving as both a historical relic and an example of how salvaged materials were repurposed in the wake of the disaster.