The Flying Cloud was a clipper ship built in 1851 in East Boston, Massachusetts. It was designed by Donald McKay.
The ship was known for its sleek and elegant design, as well as its impressive speed.
With its long and narrow hull, large sails, and sharp bow, it was one of the fastest ships of its time.
The ship was also used in the California gold rush, transporting prospectors and their supplies to San Francisco.
It was used primarily for carrying cargo and passengers across the oceans and was particularly popular for its transatlantic voyages.
It set the world's sailing record for the fastest passage between New York and San Francisco, completing the journey in a time of 89 days and 8 hours.
It was retired in 1874, after only 23 years of service, due to the advancements in steamships which made the clipper ships obsolete.