The SS France Atlantic Crossing

As the majestic ocean liner approached the North American continent, it had noticeably slowed its engines on this 4th day, 43 years ago. The trip took on a less eery feel. When focussing hard, one could even see what might be a darker line on the horizon - land ahoy! But it would take until 11pm on the night of October 8, 1968, to complete the journey across the Atlantic and sail down the St. Lawrence river to dock at Quebec, Canada. The welcome for the ship was quite unexpected - what seemed like 100s of tiny boats with lights and water spouts, encircling and welcoming the SS France and its over 1500 passengers. Truly an immigration story from the past!

There is much interesting information on these crossings, the famous people who sailed on the ship, the french chefs on board, and sadly, also the fate of this luxury ship, to be found on the internet today. Information also on the Queen Elizabeth II, the ocean liner that Fritz sailed on the year before. The era of ocean crossings is an intriguing chapter of history, and great memory for the now Canadian Stehwien family. And a great start to what was such a monumental decision for a young German family - to immigrate to Canada, to what many perceive to be paradise! As did our family.