In its original role, the FLYING CLOUD served as a mail delivery boat for the Kiln, MS area. The 35-foot, cypress hull lugger was purchased by commercial fisherman and Heritage Hall of Fame inductee, Herman William Rieux, Jr. in 1958 and began its new mission.
With skill and locally obtained materials, Mr. Rieux rebuilt the cypress constructed vessel previously owned by Mr. Geogh Higgins of Pearlington, MS, for use in his commercial fishing business. The fishing boat has been instrumental in harvesting catches so abundant Mr. Rieux has been able to sell to Mississippi and Louisiana markets as well as donate to many local charities such as St. Joseph’s Altars, St. Stanislaus Schools, and the Oblate Fathers of Delisle’s North Shore.
Aboard the FLYING CLOUD, Mr. Rieux has navigated and fished all the waterways of South Mississippi and Louisiana. His ventures have carried him to the Breton Sound, Breton Island, and the Chandeleurs. Once, from this single fishing vessel, Mr. Rieux was able to fill a semi-trailer with Gulf seafood within three days!