Tuesday 4 October 2011

The one-way ticket



43 years ago today, in October of 1968, Fritz and family were en route to Paris via train. They had boarded the train in Stuttgart, Germany, the night before, and were embarking on a one-way journey to a 'new life'. The destination was Saskatchewan, Canada. The more immediate destination was Le Havre, France, where the then largest passenger ship, the SS France was getting ready to sail across the Atlantic Ocean.


Postcard of the Ocean Liner SS France

From Paris to the harbour was a wild trip, with all the luggage and 6 people crammed into 2 taxis. Once at the harbour though, the size and luxury of the ocean liner became clear and excitement for this journey mounted. The ship would sail at 2 pm and arrive at 11pm in Quebec on Oct 8th.

The reason for this long journey when a plane ticket would be so much quicker? It was meant to give a true feel for the distance to the destination.
Fritz Stehwien on the ship


 

Exploring the decks