The term "clipper" is used loosely to describe types of very fast sailing ships that "clip" along. The term was first applied to speedy schooners called Baltimore clippers (built in Virginia and Maryland) which became famous for escaping the British blockade and acting as privateers during the War of 1812. These early clippers, which actually had come from previous French designs, had a long and low hull design with weight distributed more toward the rear than other ships. They also had a stern that sloped sharply back toward the bow, thus making for more deck space but less hull. Of course, this design limited cargo space, but it increased speed. The lack of carrying capacity was to eventually bring an end, at least commercially, to these beautiful ships. The first true clipper was built by John Griffiths (1809-1882), an American naval architect. By the age of nineteen...