The Baltimore Clipper: Its Origin and Development

Fast, lightly rigged and sleekly styled with wide, clear decks, the Baltimore Clipper appeared in American waters about the time of the American Revolution and instantly launched a colorful and romantic chapter in maritime history. Because of their speed and maneuverability, these "rakish topsail schooners" were quickly taken up by privateers, slavers, smugglers and pirates. More often than not, to spot a Baltimore Clipper on the horizon was to spot trouble on the way.

Until the publication...