An American frigate of 32 cannons, the Essex was constructed in 1798 in Salem, Massachusett,by a private subscription of 74,700$.

The finest materials were used -- the best white oak,  and sails of the finest canvas.

 Never had a more beautiful ship been built in Salem. The talents of the best carpenters were employed to build this frigate which became the pride of the town.

She was launched on the  30^th September 1799 and she left Salem on the following 20^th December. Twelve thousand people gathered at Winter island to see the launching, and many others gathered at Naugus Head.

Her first voyage was to Newport under the orders of captain Edward Preble. She was recognized as a rapid and sea worthy ship. Her average speed 11 knots.

She was the first American ship to pass the cape of good hope and to sail the Indian ocean. She was also the first to pass  cape horn and navigate the pacific.

In the 13 years of her existence she never returned to her port of origin.

She was captured by two English warships in 1814 while she was being repaired in the port of Valparaiso ( Chili ). 

The British navy included her in their fleet after adding 14 more cannons.