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Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Flying Cloud
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum.

Flying Cloud

Artifact IDMO 1941.7.73
Object Type Model
Maker
Mediumwood, string, metal, paper
Dimensionsoverall (model on base) H 28 in x W 35 1/2 in x D 13 5/8 in (71.1 cm x 90.2 cm x 34.6 cm )
Physical DescriptionA three-masted, square-rigged wooden model of the FLYING CLOUD. Ship has a gray and white hull with black trim, brown and white masts, elaborate rigging, and no sails. The name of ship is on either side of bow. There is some simple deck detail. An American flag made of paper is attached to rigging at the stern. The model sits on wooden cradle.

A wooden base is stored separately.
Historical NoteThe FLYING CLOUD was a famous clipper ship used in the California and China trade. In 1861, it set a record by sailing 374 miles in 24 hours. Roosevelt had a special interest in clipper ships that had a role in the China trade. His Delano ancestors were involved in overseas trade with China and his mother traveled to China with her family aboard a clipper ship while she was a young girl. Although named for the renowned clipper ship, this model is not of clipper design.
Additional Details
Credit LineEstate of Franklin D. Roosevelt
National Archives Catalog CollectionFranklin D. Roosevelt Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 735948)
National Archives Catalog SeriesShip Models (National Archives Identifier 782457)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedCopyrightReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Not on view