The American Clipper

Originally Aired: March 20, 1939 Cavalcade of America #157, "The American Clipper," follows young Captain Josiah Blake on his first voyage as master of the clipper ship Stars and Stripes in 1855. At just twenty-two years old, Josiah faces immense pressure from his father Peter, who has wagered ten thousand dollars that his son will beat the rival ship Flying Scud to Hong Kong and back. With his wife Emily aboard, Josiah sets sail from Maine, determined to prove himself and win the China trade race. The journey tests the young captain's mettle as he navigates the treacherous waters around Cape Horn through ice, snow, and fog. As the Stars and Stripes pushes forward, trouble brews below deck. Ship's boy Tommy overhears the crew complaining about their provisions and plotting to send a deputation to confront the captain. When Josiah learns of the potential mutiny, he refuses to take a pistol from Emily, insisting he can handle his crew with bare hands alone. The young captain must now prove his leadership abilities while racing against time and a rival ship, with his reputation and his father's fortune on the line.