In brief
From her remarkable travels in an amphibious jeep alongside her husband, to being finally recognized by the Explorers Club, Helen's story is one of passion and perseverance.
Helen Schreider, who passed away on February 6 at the age of 98, is remembered as a trailblazer in exploration. Together with her husband Frank, they became the first couple to traverse the entirety of the Americas in an amphibious vehicle, driving from the Arctic Circle to the southernmost tip of South America. Their unique journey was more than just a physical expedition; it encompassed a rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and experiences, documented through their work with National Geographic magazine, where Helen took stunning photographs while Frank wrote about their adventures.While Frank garnered recognition through early memberships with elite groups like the Explorers Club—established in 1904 and historically male-dominated—it wasn't until 2015, 59 years after her husband's induction, that Helen was acknowledged as a member herself. The Explorers Club, under the leadership of its first female president, Faanya Rose, welcomed Helen, recognizing her unwavering spirit and love for adventure despite the lack of accolades during her time. A passionate artist as well, Helen always traveled with her drawing pad and colored pencils, capturing the beauty of the places they visited. She leaves behind a legacy that inspires future generations of explorers, proving that curiosity and passion know no gender. Her inspiring story is one of adventure, creativity, and breaking barriers, reminding us that exploration is driven by the heart.
