The Slave Ship
The formidable ship La Concorde sailed with majestic grace. The sails were billowing in the steady winds as the slave ship sailed through the waters of West Africa to the slave trading port of Juida. This bustling city was a hub for Portuguese, French, and Dutch vessels, with trading posts dotting its shores. Textiles, firearms, and alcohol were brought in regularly for the Europeans to trade for captured enslaved Africans. Most of these unfortunate souls would eventually find themselves in the Americas.
This ship was designed and built to look imposing. Solid and steady, the ship could withstand the long crossings from Africa to wherever its human cargo would be sold. Her purpose was to carry the profitable cargo, enforce order completely, and turn human lives into profit. A floating prison, not only for the slaves, but also for the crew, who led pitiful lives, many of whom did not expect to survive the entire voyage.
Many people in the city watched as the large and formidable La Concorde approached. Traders, fishermen, and curious onlookers were watching the La Concorde as it glided into port. A fort overlooked and protected the port with many cannons, silent now but always ready.
La Concorde proudly displayed France’s flag. It bore an intricate, detailed construction. The wooden deck had seen many sailors, yet it remained sturdy and well-maintained. This ship had spent many years voyaging the sea. A motley crew of seasoned sailors worked together to prepare the boat for docking. These were hard men with tanned, rugged faces. Most of the crew were coerced to serve on the ship by various methods, often to avoid going to jail for true and fictitious crimes.
Captain Pierre Dossett scanned the people and city before him. This wasn’t his first voyage to this seaport. He knew Juida to be bustling and fascinating, with a rich culture and many merchants and traders.
The ship docked, the gangplank was lowered, and most of the crew disembarked seeking relief from the long voyage in the bars and whore houses of the city. Juida was home to a diverse mix of people, including the Fon and many from distant lands. The crew was welcomed by curious, wary city dwellers eager to profit from the visitors. The air was rich with the smells of salt, spices, and other aromas of a thriving trade port.
Captain Dossett was immediately offered many deals in palm oil, ivory, and the dark trade he sought. He wanted a whole ship of healthy slaves that would bring him high prices in America. Captain Dossett knew how to negotiate with these merchants and spoke with many of them.
In his dealings with the locals, in fact, with everyone, Dossett sought and usually succeeded in gaining control.
Adegoke was a local merchant who knew Captain Dossett from many previous dealings. “Ah, yes, hello, Captain Dossett. It is so good to see you again. Welcome back to Juida. We have much to offer today. I am sure you will find our goods to your liking.”
“Merci, Adegoke,” replied the Captain with a smile and a nod, “I am looking forward to seeing what high-value treasures you have to show me.”
Adegoke led the Captain through the busy market. The wide variety of colors in the many items was fantastic. They stopped at a stall filled with palm oil and ivory.
“These are some of our very best products,” Adegoke boasted, “Palm oil, harvested with meticulous care, and beautiful ivory. “
Dossett looked over the goods carefully. “They are truly exceptional. As you know, though, I am interested in a much more valuable quality item.”
Adegoke looked into the captain’s eyes, losing his smile. He nodded, “Of course, my friend. You usually seek a product and a deal that is delicate yet lucrative. Come with me.”
They strolled to a more secluded area. Here, the merchants and buyers gathered spoke in quiet tones, their eyes darting around, looking for unwanted listeners.
“This trade,” Dossett said softly, “demands trust and much discretion. This trade must be beneficial to both of us.”
“I agree,” Adegoke said, his hands spread, “We Fon people value our European partners. Of course, we will negotiate fairly and privately.”
Adegoke nodded almost imperceptibly as he signaled another merchant who led several Africans towards Captain Dossett. Except for one, these men and a few women were shackled and looked dejected. Kwame stood tall and proud.
“These are strong and capable workers, “Adegoke said quietly, “They will serve exceptionally in whatever duties you need from them.”
Dossett walked among the group, carefully examining each person. “They seem to be in good health. I will take them,” he said. His handshake was all that Adegoke required to seal the deal.
Kwame stood out to Dossett. He was tall. He was strong. He was calm, as if he were overseeing the situation.
Dossett thought, “This slave will be difficult to train, but he will bring a perfect price.” He approached Kwame, “I am Captain Dossett, your new master. You look like a strong man. What is your name?”
Kwame looked into Dossett’s eyes. His piercing gray eyes seemed to reach inside Dossett’s mind. His eyes seemed to exude strength and power. He said proudly, “Greetings, Captain.” My name is Kwame; I am a warrior of my people. Somehow, a mistake has been made. You will release me immediately.”
Kwame’s words haunted Dossett for a long time, even long after this day. Dossett thought that, in most cases, he was helping Africans toward a better life in the colonies. Kwame’s pride, intelligence, and bravery troubled his thoughts.
The captain laughed heartily, “I cannot release any of you, you are my property now. You certainly have an air about you. Your name does not fit in the American colonies, which will be your new home. I will rename you Josiah, after an ancient king. You seem very royal to me.”
Captain Dossett told himself he was kind and helpful to slaves in his possession.
The sun began to set, and the rhythm of drums reminded Josiah of his home, where he wanted to be, and he wondered how these Fon people could participate in this crime against him and his fellow captives.
The deal was sealed. Dossett signaled his crew to prepare to bring the new purchases aboard and load them onto La Concorde. The slaves, shackled and saddened, were marched to the ship; their expressions were a mix of fear, resignation, and wonder.
This crew had spent many years in the maritime industry and worked as a cohesive unit. They marched the captives through the narrow streets to the dock.
Dossett supervised the situation, feeling anticipation and some apprehension. He knew the journey ahead would be difficult and that he would likely face many unexpected challenges. He thought that this was a critical time for the Africans. He thought he was leading them to a better life, but, from experience, he knew they would not believe it, at least for now.
The crew swiftly secured the captives in the cargo hold, which was large but filled to the brim with the new enslaved people, along with many others previously purchased. The captives huddled together, their fates intertwined as they began a long journey to a place they knew little about.
Dossett gave the order to set sail. The trade winds expanded the sails, which billowed and snapped. La Concorde set out on its journey away from the homeland these captured souls had loved.
Bill Clark 