The port of helsingfors is defended by the large and famous fortress of Sweaborg, which repelled the English and French fleets during the Crimean war.
"Due North or Glimpses of Scandinavia and Russia"
Maturin M. Ballou
After leaving helsingfors we next come upon Cronstadt, formed by a series of low islands about five miles long by one broad, which are important only as fortifications and as being the acknowledged key of St. Petersburg, forming also the chief naval station of the great empire.
"Due North or Glimpses of Scandinavia and Russia"
Maturin M. Ballou
We know nothing of how she got to helsingfors, but I believe it was at that place that she had to walk some considerable distance over a frozen lake to reach the ship.
"My War Experiences in Two Continents"
Sarah Macnaughtan