As a British merchantman she initially traded with the Iberian peninsula.

An American vessel captured and released her in 1812 and she foundered later that year.

Preston first entered Lloyd's Register (LR) in 1809 with Simpson, master, Ditchburn, owner, and trade London–Gibraltar.

[2] Preston, Ditchburn, master, was sailing from Newfoundland to Trinidad in 1812 when she encountered the American letter of marque Lottery at 29°N 43°W / 29°N 43°W / 29; -43.

[3] When Preston arrived at Trinidad, Ditchburn reported that the Americans had behaved more like pirates than privateersmen, looting private property and cabin stores.