Helen Schreider, Pioneering Explorer, Passes Away at 98

Helen Schreider, an intrepid world traveler and part of an iconic exploration duo with her husband Frank, passed away on February 6 in Santa Rosa, California, at the age of 98. They achieved a remarkable feat in the 1950s by becoming the first couple to journey the entire length of the Americas in an amphibious vehicle, a colorful adventure they fondly branded as their "turtle" expedition.Frank Schreider, already a member of the prestigious Explorers Club in 1956, was duly recognized for their accomplishments, while Helen's contributions remained largely overshadowed, primarily due to the male-dominated nature of the exploration community at the time. They traveled extensively, documenting their experiences in countries such as India, Africa, and in the Amazon Basin, where they contributed to National Geographic through writings and stunning photography.Helen's work as a visual chronicler complemented her husband’s writing, creating a robust narrative of their journeys. Despite the fact that the Explorers Club's gender restrictions meant her induction only came in 2015—almost six decades after her husband—Helen was celebrated for her relentless spirit of adventure. Faanya Rose, the club's first female president, expressed admiration for Helen’s dedication to exploration, acknowledging her enthusiasm despite the absence of accolades for women explorers of her time.A former art student, Helen always brought along her drawing pad and colored pencils to depict the rich landscapes they encountered on their travels. Her legacy as a pioneering woman in exploration is remembered warmly by family and friends, including her niece, Camille Armstrong, who mentioned that Helen succumbed to a stroke.