Lightning
Quick Summary
The Lightning was a classic American clipper ship of the 19th century, celebrated for its speed and beauty. These vessels were characterized by their long, slender hulls, projecting bows, and an exceptionally large sail area spread across three tall masts. The drive for speed was fueled by the desire to be the first to bring tea from China and to compete in the race to the California goldfields. The Lightning, built by Donald McKay, set an all-time record for a single day's sail, covering 436 nautical miles in 24 hours.12
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clipper shipThe Lightning set the all-time record for a single day’s sail, covering 436 nautical miles in 24 h. The Lightning and the James Baines (both launched in 1854 or 1855), as well as the Flying Cloud, were built by Donald McKay, a Canadian-born shipbuilder, at his…
Read MoreThe Lightning set the all-time record for a single day’s sail, covering 436 nautical miles in 24 h. The Lightning and the James Baines (both launched in 1854 or 1855), as well as the Flying Cloud, were built by Donald McKay, a Canadian-born shipbuilder, at his…
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shipShipping in the 19th centuryIn 1854 the Lightning sailed 436 miles in a day, at an average speed of 18 1/2 knots.
Read MoreIn 1854 the Lightning sailed 436 miles in a day, at an average speed of 18 1/2 knots.
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