The article presents a discussion of the Salem, Massachusetts-built vessel the "Margaret" and her voyage to Japan in 1801. Details are given noting the ship's significance as the third American vessel to visit Japan and the first all-Salem venture. Discussion is provided relating the construction, ownership and orders of the vessel under captain Samuel Derby. Accounts are provided of the cargo and trade conducted by the ship as well as the challenges which met her captain during the voyage. Three reproductions of the ship's documents are provided, including the owners' letter of instructions, the Dutch East Indies company contract, and Derby's accounting sheet.