The slave ship Bess began acquiring enslaved Africans for transportation to U.S. Virgin Islands.

Vessel: Bess; flag: Great Britain; rig: Schooner; estimated standardized tonnage: 99. People recorded in connection with the voyage: Captain: Tarleton, John; Investor: Tarleton, John; Captain: Mills, Michael; Investor: Backhouse, Dan. The voyage began at Liverpool on 9 January 1796. Principal recorded place where captives were acquired: Congo River (West Central Africa and St Helena). Principal recorded disembarkation place: St Croix. Estimated mortality during the crossing: 3.0%. Recorded outcome: Voyage completed as intended.