In brief
The extraordinary life of Helen Schreider, who contributed significantly to the world of exploration and adventure, is remembered following her passing.
Helen Schreider, whose adventurous spirit and teamwork with her husband, Frank, led them to become the first people to traverse the length of the Americas in an amphibious vehicle, passed away on February 6, 2025, in Santa Rosa, California, at the age of 98. Frank Schreider earned induction into the Explorers Club in 1956, while Helen was only recognized with the honor in 2015, after the organization lifted its male-only membership policy. The couple's explorations from the Arctic Circle to the southern tip of South America were monumental. Traveling in their amphibious jeep named La Tortuga, they documented their journey, creating films and articles for National Geographic magazines from 1957 to 1969. Despite a historical trend of male-dominated accolades in exploration, Helen's contributions were ultimately celebrated later in life—a testament to her undeterred passion for discovery.Helen, a former art student, often brought along drawing materials to capture the beauty of her travels. Faanya Rose, the club's first female president, acknowledged Helen's remarkable dedication and enthusiasm for exploration, which was driven purely by curiosity, even when societal recognition was lacking.Commemorating her life, Helen’s niece, Camille Armstrong, shared that she succumbed to a stroke. Helen Schreider leaves behind a legacy of adventure, passion, and significant contributions to the field of exploration, continuing to inspire future generations.
