The slave ship Essex left the African coast carrying enslaved Africans toward Dominica. About 284 people had been taken aboard.

Vessel: Essex; flag: Great Britain; rig: Ship; estimated standardized tonnage: 182.3. People recorded in connection with the voyage: Investor: Davenport, William; Captain: Potter, Peter; Investor: Potter, Peter. The voyage began at Liverpool on 13 January 1785. Principal recorded place where captives were acquired: Calabar (Bight of Biafra and Gulf of Guinea islands). Principal recorded disembarkation place: Dominica, place unspecified. Estimated mortality during the crossing: 17.0%. Recorded outcome: Voyage completed as intended.