Runaway Slave Ads. In the following document, the same set of 15 Runaway Slave Ads is presented in three different ways:

Transcription

1 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads Runaway Slave Ads In the following document, the same set of 15 Runaway Slave Ads is presented in three different ways: 1. Text of the ads themselves, pages The ads recreated in period fonts, as they might have appeared originally in local newspapers at the time, page Annotated Ads: A Guide for Teachers, page 22-40

2 1 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads New-York Gazette November 13, 1732 Ran away from JOSEPH READE of New York City, merchant, the 14 th of November 1732, a likely mullatto servant woman named SARAH. She is about 24 years of age, and she has taken with her a callico Suit of Cloathes, a striped Satteen silk waistecoat, Two Homespun waiste-coates and Petty-coat; she is a handy Wench, can do all sorts of House-work, speaks good English and some Dutch. Whoever takes up the said Servant, and will bring her to her late Master, shall have 5 POUNDS Reward and all reasonable Charges paid. New-York Weekly Post-Boy August 18, 1746 Run away on Sunday the 10 th instant from Captain George Hall, of this city, a tall likely young Negroe man named Quaw; he is a cunning and artful fellow, Jamaica born, stutters very much and had one of his ears cropt; he stole away a 5, 12s and 3 Johannes Pieces and was seen going towards Kingsbridge. Whoever takes up said Negro and brings him to his master, shall have fifty shillings reward and all reasonable charges paid by George Hall. New-York Weekly Journal May 25, 1747 New York, May 23, 1747 Made his escape from on board the Privateer Brig, Pollux, on the 20 th inst, a Mulatto man named Storde, a Bermudian Born, aged about 23 years, pretty tall and pock broken, but not very much, but pretty large pits in his face, pretty fair, with his Head commonly shaved in order to make himself pass for a white man, by trade a carpenter; the cloathes he used to wear before he left the vessel, was a check d shirt, a striped Flannel Jacket, a pair of Oznabrig trousers, a red and white worsted cap, and some other cloathes, but can t say what they were and believe, that he caried with him both shoes and stockings, with a large pair of silver shoe buckles and a silver stock buckle and also a pair of Gold Sleeve buttons, when in Bermuda, which without doubt he had with him, and which tis thought he will offer to sell. It is very likely that he may be well dress d as he had good cloath when he left Bermuda. The above mentioned Buckles and Buttons given him by his Master Mr. Thomas Hunt of Bermuda. Whoever takes up the said Mulatto slave 1

3 2 and delivers him to Mr. Daniel Stiles at Captain John Waldron s at New-York or to Mr. Philip Wilkinson, merchant at New-Port, Rhode Island, shall have ten pounds, as a reward and all reasonable charges paid by either. Daniel Stiles or Philip Wilkinson. New-York Weekly Post Boy June 27, 1748 Run away from the Executors of Captain Beezley, a Spanish Negro Man, named Domingo, about 40, pitted with small pox, but a scar under his left eye brow, speaks bad English; had on when he went away a Brown cloth Jacket, a check shirt, an old hat flapt, a striped blue and white cotton trowsers, is supposed to harbor in or about the swamp, having frequently been seen near Mary Carrey, a white woman, that frequently used to harbor him at her lodgings near the Stockade. Whoever takes up said Negro, and secures him, so that he made be had again, shall receive Twenty Shillings Reward by James Mills. New-York Weekly Post Boy November 14, 1748 Run away from John Pell of the Mannor of Pelham, a Negro wench named Bell, a boy named Janneau, a girl named Tamar, another named Dianah, another named Isabel, also a Negro Man named Lewis. Whoever will take up said Negroes, and bring them to John Pell aforesaid, shall have Five Pounds Reward, and all reasonable charges, paid by John Pell. New-York Weekly Post Boy April 23, 1753 Run away on the 12 th Instant April, from ISAAC KINGSLAND of Saddle River, in Bergen County, East New Jersey, a Negro Wench named Nell, who formerly belonged to Robert J. Livingston, Merchant in New York: she is a tall slim Wench, has three Diamonds in her face, one on each side and the other on her Forehead: had on and taken with her when she went away, three Petticoats, one is an old quilted one, and the other two homespun, one striped and the other mixed, a blue and white striped short gown, a bluish homespun Waistcoat, and an Ozenbrigs shirt, with Homespun sleeves, a short blue cloke, a new pair of Blue Stockings, a pair of old crooked shoes, and several other Things too tedious to mention. These are 2

4 3 therefore to Forewarn all Masters of Vessels and others, of carrying off, concealing or harbouring said Wench, as they will answer it at their peril with the utmost Rigour of the Law. Whoever takes up the foremention d Negroe, and secures her in any Gaol, so that her master may have her again, shall have Forty Shillings reward, and all reasonable charges paid by ISAAC KINGSLAND. New-York Gazette October 15, 1753 Run away on Sabbath Day evening, Sept. 2, 1753, from his Master Chauncy Graham, of Rumbout, in Dutchess County, a likely Negro Man named Cuff, about 30 years old, well set, has had the Small Pox, is very black, speaks English pretty well for a Guinea Negroe, and very flippant; he is a plausable smooth Tongue Fellow. Had with him a pair of greenish plush breeches about two-thirds worn, and a Pair of russel ditto flowered green and yellow, two white shirts, two Pair of middling short Tow Trowsers, one pair of Thread Stockings knit in Squares, one Pair of blue fine wool ditto flowered, one Diaper Cap, one white Cotton ditto, one blue Broad Cloth Jacket with red lining, one blue homespun coat lined with streak d Lindsey Woolsey, or woolen &c. &c. &c. He is a strong Smoaker. Tis supposed he was seduced away by one Samuel Stanberry, alias Joseph Linley, a white fellow that run away with him, and tis very likely this white man has wrote the Negro a pass; for tis said he has been in Norwalk in Conecticut, and passed there for a free Negro, by the name of Joseph Jennings, and that he was making toward the Eastward. Whoever shall take up and secure said Servant, so that his Master may have him again, shall have FORTY SHILLINGS New-York Money Reward, and all reasonable charges paid by CHAUNCY GRAHAM. N.B. All Masters of Vessels are forbid to carry off said Servant, as they would not escape the utmost Rigour of the Law in that case made and provided. New-York Gazette January 22, 1759 Ran away from Richard Harris, of Staten Island, the 14 th Instant; a Negro man named Tom, speaks good English, about 30 years of age. Ran away at the same time a Negro Boy named Harry, 14 years old, has an Impediment in his speech, speaks good French, and has lost one of Fore Teeth: They both had light coloured Kersey jackets, with white flowered Metal Buttons; Harry had a cap on, such as Mariners generally wear, and Tom had a Great coat with a cap to it, that covered his head on 3

5 4 Occasion. Whoever takes up and secures said Negroes, so that their Master can have them again, shall receive twenty shillings reward for each, and all reasonable Charges paid by RICHARD HARRIS. New-York Gazette December 31, 1759 New-York, December 31, 1759, RUN-AWAY, from Charles Lewis, of the City of New-York, Mariner, the 20 th Instant, a negro fellow named Harry, about 5 feet 9 Inches high: Had on when he went away, an old green Jacket, and a white one under it, wore a Cap, and Woolen ribb d Stockings, and had an Iron Collar round his neck, which is not visible without examination. Whoever takes up said Negro Fellow and secures him so that his Master may have him again, shall receive Twenty Shillings reward, and all reasonable Charges paid, by Charles Lewis. New-York Weekly Post Boy November 6, 1760 Run away from John Waddell the 6 th Instant, a negro man named Charles, about 24 years old, a likely middle fine Fellow, talks good English, this Country born; he formerly belonged to Colonel Moore, is well known in town and in Harlaem, and was seen last Saturday night in Harlaem. Whoever takes up said negro and brings him to his master shall have Five Pounds reward paid by John Waddell. N.B. He reports that he is a free negro and has a Counterfeit pass or Certificate, in order to induce any Commander of a vessel to take him off. New-York Gazette September 30, 1762 TAPPAN, SEPT. 26. RUN AWAY last Sunday Evening, from his Master, in Orange County, Johannes Blauveldt, Blacksmith, a Negro Fellow, named as he says, ADONIA, but by us, DUCA. He is a yellow Complexion, being a mixed Breed, speaks and reads pretty good LOW DUTCH, and speaks little ENGLISH: Is a very good BLACK SMITH by Trade, and can make Leather Shoes, and do something at the CARPENTERS TRADE, is about 5 and a half Feet high, full Faced, black Hair, but cut off about one Inch long, is 20 or 22 Years old. Had on when he went away homespun Trowsers, Shirt, gray Waistcoat, and Felt Hat; took with him a check Shirt and Trowsers, a white Shirt and a Pair of blue Cloth Breeches, and one home spun Waist Coat. He 4

6 5 had been whip d the day before he went off, which may be seen pretty much on his right side, he pretends to be free, and perhaps will get a Pass for that Purpose. Whoever takes up and secures the said Fellow, so that his Master may have him again, shall have THREE POUNDS Reward, and all reasonable Charges paid by JOHANNES BLAUVELDT. N.B. All Masters of Vessels and others are forbid to carry him away. New-York Gazette March 05, 1763 WENT AWAY ON SUNDAY MORNING, THE 1 ST DAY OF MAY INSTANT, from the house of ADAM STATES, a negro woman called LUCRETIA or CRETIA. She is low in stature, has not been long in the Country, and speaks broken Dutch and English, she has had the smallpox and is also great with Child. She had on when she went away, a black Petticoat mended or patched on both Sides, a white Apron and a speckled Handkerchief, a blue waistcoat and laced cap with a blue short Cloak. She is very slow in walking and is very black of Complexion: She was entrusted into the Care of the Subscriber to sell, and belongs to the Widow MARY DAUCHY, N. Y. Any person who takes up and secures the said negro woman so that her Mistress or the subscriber may have her again, shall receive THREE POUNDS IN NEW YORK MONEY and all reasonable charges paid by HENRY JACOB PITTS. N.B. All masters of vessels are hereby forewarn d not to carry her off as they will answer at their peril. BEN (FIRST OF FOUR ADVERTISEMENTS FOR BEN BETWEEN 1766 AND 1770) The New-York Gazette September 4, 1766 R U N A W A Y on Saturday the 23 rd of August last, from Nathaniel Richards at Newark, a Negro man named Ben, about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, aged 28, slim made, thin visage, yellow Complexion, and can speak good Dutch. He formerly belonged to Thomas Budde, at Morris-town in New Jersey, who several months ago sold him to the Widow Mrs. Elizabeth Finn at Prakenas in the County of Bergen, from whom he run away soon after, and being advertised, was taken and brought home to his Mistress, by whom he was sold soon after to the Subscriber. When he went away he pretended that he was going to swim, and as he never returned, and next day his Clothes were found near the Shore, he was supposed to be drown d, till his Character was known, which gives Reason to suppose he took Method to deceive 5

7 6 his Master and prevent a Search. It is not known whether he had any clothes with him or not. Whoever returns him to his Master or secures him in any gaol, shall receive Eight Dollars Reward and all reasonable charges. NATHANIEL RICHARDS. New-Jersey Gazette April 23, DOLLARS REWARD. WAS stolen by her mother, a NEGRO GIRL about 9 or 10 years old, named DIANAH--Her mother's name is CASH, and was married to an Indian named LEWIS WOLIS near 6 feet high, about 35 years of age--they have a male child with them between three and four years old. Any person that takes up the said Negroes and Indian and secures them, so that the subscriber may get them, shall have the above reward and all reasonable charges. Any person that understands distilling rye spirits, may find encouragement by applying to the subscriber at his own house. KENNETH HANKINSON. Penelapon, East New-Jersey, April 15, The Royal Gazette (New York) May 24, 1783 FIVE GUINEAS REWARD W E N T off from his master on Thursday night, a Negro Wench, called VIOLET, with her male children, one about 7 years old, called Willis, the other about two years old, named Joe. The Wench is about 26 years old, tall, thin, and somewhat pitted with the small-pox. The youngest boy is rather of a yellow complexion. Both boys have lately had their hair or wooll cut short. Whoever apprehends said Negroes, and brings them to the Subscriber s House, at Greenwich, shall have a reward of Five Guineas immediately paid them. David Campbell. Excerpts from: Hodges, Graham Russell and Alan Edward Brown, eds. PRETENDS TO BE FREE: Runaway Slave Advertisements from Colonial and Revolutionary New York and New Jersey. Garland: New York,

8 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 7 New-York Gazette November 13, 1732 Ran away from JOS. READE of New York Citty, merchant, the 14 th of November, a likely mullatto servant woman named SARAH. She is about 24 years of age, and she has taken with her a callico Suit of Cloathes, a striped Satteen silk wai tecoat, Two Home pun wai te- Coates and Petty-coat; she is a handy Wench, can do all sorts of House-work, speaks good English and some Dutch. Whoever takes up the said Servant, and will bring her to her late Master, shall have 5 POUNDS Reward and all rea onable Charges paid. Joseph Reade New-York 1

9 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 8 New-York Weekly Po[-Boy Augu[ 18, 1746 R U N A W A Y on Sunday the 10 th in[ant from Captain George Hall, of thi< city, a tall likely young Negroe man named Quaw; he i< a cunning and artful fellow, Jamaica born, [utter< very much and had one of hi< ear< cropt; he [ole away a 5, 12< and 3 Johanne< Piece< and wa< seen going toward< KINGSBRIDGE. Whoever take< up said Negro and bring< him to hi< ma[er, shall have fifty shilling< reward and all reasonable charge< paid by GEORGE HALL. 2

10 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 9 3

11 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 10 New-York Weekly Post Boy June 27, 1748 R U N A W A Y from the Executors of Captain Beezley, a Spanish Negro Man, named Domingo, about 40, pitted with small pox, but a scar under his left eye brow, speaks bad English; had on when he went away a Brown cloth Jacket, a check shirt, an old hat flapt, a striped blue and white cotton trowsers, is supposed to harbor in or about the swamp, having frequently been seen near MARY CARREY, a white woman, that frequently used to harbor him at her lodgings near the Stockade. Whoever takes up said Negro, and secures him, so that he made be had again, shall receive Twenty Shillings Reward by JAMES MILLS. 4

12 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 11 New-York Weekly Po} Boy November 14, 1748 Run Away from John Pell of the Mannor of Pelham, a Negro wench named Bell, a boy named Janneau, a girl named Tamar, another named Dianah, another named Isabel, also a Negro Man named Lewi[. Whoever will take up said Negroe<, and bring them to John Pell aforesaid, >all have Five Pound< Reward, and all reasonable charge<, paid by John Pell. 5

13 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 12 New-York Weekly PoÌ Boy April 23, 1753 R U N A W A Y ON THE 12 th INSTANT APRIL, FROM ISAAC KINGSLAND of Saddle River, in Bergen County, EaÌ New JerÇey, a Negro Wench named NELL, who formerly belonged to ROBERT J. LIVINGSTON, Merchant in New York: Èe is a tall Êim Wench, has three Diamonds in her face, one on each Éde and the other on her Forehead: had on and taken with her when Èe went away, three Petticoats, one is an old quilted one, and the other two homeçpun, one Ìriped and the other mixed, a blue and white Ìriped short gown, a bluiè homeçpun WaiÌcoat, and an Ozenbrigs Èirt, with HomeÇpun sleeves, a Èort blue cloke, a new pair of Blue Stockings, a pair of old crooked Èoes, and Çeveral other Things too tedious to mention. TheÇe are therefore to Forewarn all MaÌers of VeËels and others, of carrying off, concealing or harbouring Çaid Wench, as they will answer it at their peril with the utmost Rigour of the Law. Whoever takes up the foremention d Negroe, and Çecures her in any Gaol, Ço that her maìer may have her again, Èall have Forty Shillings reward, and all reaçonable charges paid by ISAAC KINGSLAND. 6

14 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 13 New-York Gazette October 15, 1753 Run away on Sabbath Day evening, Sept. 2, 1753, from his Master Chauncy Graham, of Rumbout, in Dutcheß County, a likely Negro Man named Cuff, about 30 years old, well set, has had the Small Pox, is very black, speaks English pretty well for a Guinea Negroe, and very flippant; he is a plausable smooth Tongue Fellow. Had with him a pair of greenish plush breeches about two-thirds worn, and a Pair of rußel ditto flowered green and yellow, two white shirts, two Pair of middling short Tow Trowsers, one pair of Thread Stockings knit in Squares, one Pair of blue fine wool ditto flowered, one Diaper Cap, one white Cotton ditto, one blue Broad Cloth Jacket with red lining, one blue homespun coat lined with streak d Lindsey Woolsey, or woolen &c. &c. &c. He is a strong Smoaker. Tis supposed he was seduced away by one Samuel Stanberry, alias Joseph Linley, a white fellow that run away with him, and tis very likely this white man has wrote the Negro a paß; for tis said he has been in Norwalk in Cone icut, and passed there for a free Negro, by the name of Joseph Jennings, and that he was making toward the Eastward. Whoever shall take up and secure said Servant, so that his Master may have him again, shall have FORTY SHILLINGS New-York Money Reward, and all reasonable charges paid by CHAUNCY GRAHAM. N.B. All Masters of Vessels are forbid to carry off said Servant, as they would not escape the utmost Rigour of the Law in that case made and provided. 7

15 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 14 New-York Gazette January 22, 1759 RAN AWAY from Richard Harri<, of Staten Island, the 14 th In[ant; a Negro man named Tom, speak< good Engli\, about 30 year< of age. Ran away at the same time a Negro Boy named Harry, 14 year< old, ha< an Impediment in hi< speech, speak< good French, and ha< lo[ one of Fore Teeth: They both had light coloured Kersey jacket<, with white flowered Metal Button<; Harry had a cap on, such a< Mariner< generally wear, and Tom had a Great coat with a cap to it, that covered hi< head on Occasion. Whoever take< up and secure< said Negroe<, so that their Ma[er can have them again, \all receive TWENTY SHILLINGS reward for each, and all reasonable Charge< paid by RICHARD HARRIS. 8

16 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 15 New-York Gazette December 31, 1759 New-York, December 31, 1759, R U N A W A Y, from Charle< Lewi<, of the City of New-York, Mariner, the 20 th Instant, a negro fellow named HARRY, about 5 feet 9 Inche< high: Had on when he went away, an old green Jacket, and a white one under it, wore a Cap, and Woolen ribb d Stocking<, and had an IRON COLLAR round hi< neck, which i< not visible without examination. Whoever take< up said Negro Fellow and secure< him so that hi< Ma[er may have him again, \all receive Twenty Shilling< reward, and all reasonable Charge< paid, by Charle< Lewi<. 9

17 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 16 10

18 17 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads New-York Gazette Sept. 30, 1762 T APPAN, SEPT. 26. RUN AWAY LAST SUNDAY Evening, from his Master, in Orange County, Johannes Blauveldt, Blacksmith, a Negro Fellow, named as he says, ADONIA, but by us, DUCA. He is a yellow Complexion, being a mixed Breed, speaks and reads pretty good LOW DUTCH, and speaks little ENGLISH: Is a very good BLACK SMITH by Trade, and can make Leather Shoes, and do something at the CARPENTERS TRADE, is about 5 and a half Feet high, full Faced, black Hair, but cut off about one Inch long, is 20 or 22 Years old. Had on when he went away homespun Trow ers, Shirt, gray Waistcoat, and Felt Hat; took with him a check Shirt and Trowsers, a white Shirt and a Pair of blue Cloth Breeches, and one home spun Waist Coat. He had been whip d the day before he went off, which may be seen pretty much on his right side, he pretends to be free, and perhaps will get a Paß for that Purpose. Whoever takes up and secures the said Fellow, so that his Master may have him again, shall have THREE POUNDS Reward, and all reasonable JOHANNES BLAUVELDT. N.B. All Masters of Veßels and others are forbid to Charges paid by carry him away. J. B. 11

19 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 18 New-York Gazette March 05, 1763 WENT AWAY ON SUNDAY MORNING, THE 1 ST DAY OF MAY in tant, from the hou e of ADAM STATES, a negro woman called LUCRETIA or CRETIA. She is low in tature, has not been long in the Country, and peaks broken Dutch and Engli h, he has had the mallpox and is al o great with Child. She had on when he went away, a black Petticoat mended or patched on both Sides, a white Apron and a peckled Handkerchief, a blue wai tcoat and laced cap with a blue short Cloak. She is very ow in walking and is very black of Complexion: She was entrusted into the Care of the Subscriber to ell, and belongs to the Widow MARY DAUCHY, N. Y. Any per on who takes up and ecures the aid negro woman o that her Mistreß or the ubscriber may have her again, hall receive THREE POUNDS IN NEW-YORK MONEY and all rea onable charges paid by HENRY JACOB PITTS. N.B. All ma ters of veßels are hereby forewarn d not to carry her off as they will an wer at their peril. 12

20 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 19 13

21 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 20 New-Jersey Gazette April 23, 1778 ; 200 DOLLARS REWARD ; WAS }olen by her mother, a NEGRO GIRL about 9 or 10 year< old, named DIANAH--Her mother'< name i< CASH, and wa< married to an Indian named LEWIS WOLIS near 6 feet high, about 35 year< of age--they have a male child with them between three and four year< old. Any person that take< up the <aid Negroe< and Indian and secure< them, <o that the <ubscriber may get them, >all have the above reward and all reasonable charge<. Any person that under}and< di}illing rye <pirit<, may find encouragement by applying to the <ubscriber at hi< own house. KENNETH HANKINSON. Penelapon, Ea} New-Jersey, April 15,

22 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads 21 The Royal Gazette (New York) May 24, FIVE GUINEAS REWARD9 W E N T O F F from his master on Thursday night, a Negro Wench, called VIOLET, with her male children, one about 7 years old, called WILLIS, the other about two years old, named JOE. The Wench is about 26 years old, tall, thin, and somewhat pitted with the small-pox. The youngest boy is rather of a yellow comple ion. Both boys have lately had their hair or wooll cut short. Whoever apprehends said Negroes, and brings them to the Subscriber s House, at Greenwich, shall have a reward of Five Guineas immediately paid them. David Campbell. 15

23 22 RUNAWAY ART: Interpreting Colonial Slave Ads A Guide for Teachers For the Runaway Art project, students may select one ad from a total of fifteen ads. The fifteen ads are broken into three categories (easier, somewhat challenging, most challenging) for different learning levels, as outlined columns below. Within each category below, ads are listed in chronological order. EASIER Sarah Ad date: Nov. 13, 1732 Domingo Ad date: June 27, 1748 Bell, Janneau & co. Ad date: Nov. 14, 1748 Harry Ad date: Dec. 31, 1759 SOMEWHAT CHALLENGING Quaw Ad date: August 18, 1746 Tom & Harry Ad date: Jan., 22, 1759 Charles Ad date: Nov. 6, 1760 Lucretia ( Cretia ) Ad date: March 5, 1763 Dinah Ad date: April 23, 1778 Violet Ad date: May 24, 1783 CHALLENGING Storde Ad date: May 25, 1747 Nell Ad date: April 23, 1753 Cuff Ad date: October 15, 1753 Adonia/ Duca Ad date: Sept. 30, 1762 Ben Ad date: Sept. 4, 1766 Ads selected from Hodges, Graham Russell and Alan Edward Brown, eds. PRETENDS TO BE FREE: Runaway Slave Advertisements from Colonial and Revolutionary New York and New Jersey. Garland: New York, Each ad provides a unique description (of individuals, their possessions, possible motives, etc.) and often logistical circumstances (i.e., escaped from a boat, may be headed toward the bridge) that owners and agents used to identify these individuals or groups. This document contains annotated copies of the ads listed above, with notes to help explain some of the terms and historical connotations. Beyond the notes on each ad, some themes come up repeatedly, throughout many of the ads. These are explained below.

24 23 Note on Historic Documents The runaway advertisements chosen can be found in PRETENDS TO BE FREE: Runaway Slave Advertisements from Colonial and Revolutionary New York and New Jersey. (Hodges, Graham Russell and Alan Edward Brown, eds. New York: Garland Publishing, 1994). Although the font has been modernized for the purposes of this project, in the default ads for your students, the spelling, syntax, punctuation, capitalization and contractions used in the original ads have been largely retained. Additionally, on the website, you can find ads in period fonts, giving a sense of these ads as historic documents. On those ads, you ll notice some differences in the typeface, most notably the use of the long s (shirt, person) and certain ligatures such as the double s (braß, veßel). Although difficult to read at first, students should be aware that these characters are pronounced like the modern s. Textiles The runaway ads often contain rich description of fabrics, which is hardly surprising, since textiles were among the most valuable household goods of this time period. The fabrics frequently listed in runaway ads are typically cheaper and often a rougher fabric. Still, some include reference to nicer fabrics, perhaps suggesting that the wearer had a more public role in a household, for which the owners might have wanted a nicer style of dress. Common fabrics and fabric terminology include Calico a plain, somewhat coarse cotton fabric, often with a delicate printed design Homespun fabric woven at home (as opposed to commercially-produced fabric, which was readily available at this time) Linsey Woolsey a linen-wool weave that was durable and warm but also coarse Oznabrig a coarse linen cloth, later also made of cotton; the most common material purchased for clothing for enslaved workers Tow linen a textile produced from flax; a strong and durable fabric, but rough Worsted a fabric made of wool; known for being durable The inclusion of fabric descriptions in these runaway ads also helps shed light on how historians conduct research. Since the clothes of the enslaved community were not fine, and not passed down from generation to generation (as were textiles of wealthy people), documents like runaway ads, which describes clothing worn by the enslaved community, help us better understand what kind of clothing was worn by this group of people.

25 24 Complexion Skin color was frequently listed to describe individuals. Particularly notable are references to skin color that suggest mixed race parentage, with several ads describing an individual as a mulatto or of yellow complexion. Both of these terms refer to mixed black and white parentage. Though there is no evidence within these ads to prove relationships between enslaved individuals and white owners, the frequency of the description (plus outside sources that have documented such relationships) makes it likely that such relationships were involved at least in some of these circumstances. Remember that at this time, the state of the child (i.e., free or enslaved) followed the mother, which meant that children from a relationship between a white master and an enslaved black woman would have been born enslaved. Currency The ads included in this selection range from publication dates (in local newspapers) from 1732 through The majority of this period falls into the colonial period, and reward money is typically offered in the British currency. Two exceptions to these (in ads from 1766 and 1778) are listed in dollars. This refers not to the US dollar, but to the Spanish dollar, which was widely available throughout the Atlantic world as a form of currency. (In fact, it wasn t until 1857 that the Spanish dollar was no longer accepted as legal currency in the US.) The US dollar was introduced by the Federal Reserve in British currency includes pounds ( ), shillings (s), pence (pennies) (d, from the Latin denarii), and the guinea. 12 pence = 1 shilling 20 shillings = 1 pound 1 pound = 240 pence 1 guinea=1 pound + 1 shilling Conversion from historic currency to the present day can be tricky because of a lack of standardized currency from this time period. To help students understand the amount of money listed in these ads, we can look at a standard, middle-class income from the time period. In colonial America, 40 (40 pounds) was considered a typical salary for a middle-class worker. With this as a baseline, students can understand the percentage of a middle-class income being offered as reward for the return.

26 25 Notice to Ship Captains Especially in the major trading center of New York City, much of the commercial activity was done on ships and in docks. Many enslaved men in the region had experience with ships and sailing. Additionally, ship captains were known as men who didn t ask many questions about the backgrounds of their crew. By the mid-18 th century, warnings to ship captains not to enlist or harbor the runaway had become standard in such ads.

27 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Easy 26 mullatto: tells us something about her family about 24 years: tells us an approximate age calico/silk/homespun: The variety of fabrics, especially something nice like silk, perhaps suggests that she was in a more public position, for which she was dressed more nicely than enslaved workers in a field position. The amount of clothing is more than indicated in many ads, perhaps suggesting she had more clothes than other enslaved women. handy/house-work: suggests this was a competent woman who worked hard speaks/dutch: a reminder of New York s past as a Dutch colony; also belies the notion of enslaved individuals as ignorant or uneducated likely: strong, capable (different from our sense today of probably ) mullatto (mulatto): term for a person of mixed European and black African parentage; today recognized as an archaic & pejorative term (the literal meaning is young mule ) callico (calico): a plain, somewhat coarse cotton fabric, often with a delicate printed design homespun: describes fabric woven at home waiste-coate: similar to a vest petty-coat: a skirt-like garment worn under a skirt or dress, either for warmth or to cause the skirt to flare out from the body wench: a girl or young woman, specifically of the working class New-York Gazette November 13, 1732 Ran away from JOSEPH READE of New York City, merchant, the 14 th of November 1732, a likely mullatto servant woman named SARAH. She is about 24 years of age, and she has taken with her a callico Suit of Cloathes, a striped Satteen silk waistecoat, Two Homespun waiste-coates and Petty-coat; she is a handy Wench, can do all sorts of House-work, speaks good English and some Dutch. Whoever takes up the said Servant, and will bring her to her late Master, shall have 5 POUNDS Reward and all reasonable Charges paid.

28 Context August: many runaway ads are posted during the busiest times of year of a farm schedule, such as harvest time. Perhaps the individuals knew their work would be of most value during that time, and they were in some ways sabotaging operations by running away at such a critical time. young: gives a hint of his general age, but the lack of specific age reminds us that ages of enslaved individuals were often unknown Quaw: name comes from the Akan people (of present day Ghana & Ivory Coast) this suggests his family still maintains cultural connections to this past Jamaica born: tells us Quaw was not born in Africa, but he is also not native to New York ears cropt (cropped): likely a marker of punishment, perhaps because of an act of resistance on his part going towards Kingsbridge: suggests a path he might be taking, perhaps to meet up with someone in this region. The Philipse family (of Philipsburg Manor) owned and operated the bridge, charging people to cross it. The bridge connected northern Manhattan with the Bronx over the end of the Harlem River known as Spuyten Duyvel. Vocabulary 10 th instant: refers to the date (the 10 th ) that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated August 18, 10 th instant means August 10 th Cunning: achieving a desired result by deceit Artful: clever, crafty 27 Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging New-York Weekly Post-Boy August 18, 1746 Run away on Sunday the 10th instant from Captain George Hall, of this city, a tall likely young Negroe man named Quaw; he is a cunning and artful fellow, Jamaica born, stutters very much and had one of his ears cropt; he stole away a 5, 12s and 3 Johannes Pieces and was seen going towards Kingsbridge. Whoever takes up said Negro and brings him to his master, shall have fifty shillings reward and all reasonable charges paid by George Hall.

29 Context made/brig: escaped while on a ship mullatto: tells us something about his family, being of mixed race. Bermudan Born: tells us Storde was not native to New York and had endured at least one major ship journey, from Bermuda to the colonies Head/man: suggests that running away is part of a pattern of behavior to escape the bonds of enslavement By trade/carpenter: suggests that he had some training goes against the stereotype of enslaved individuals as ignorant or unskilled Cloathes he used to wear/silver buckle/offer to sell/well dress d: had a variety of clothes, which enhance the physical description and also suggest that he had access to nicer things; also suggests he might try to sell some of these items in order to make money (for his journey) New-Port: Along with Providence & Bristol, Newport was a major center of the slave trade. These three towns accounted for 60-90% of the enslaved individuals brought to the North Atlantic English colonies. Given that Mr. Wilkinson is listed as a merchant, it is reasonable to believe that he would likely have been involved with the slave trade. Vocabulary Privateer: essentially a pirate operating with the legal backing of a nation (usu. attacking ships that were at war with the mother country) Brig: a two-masted ship with square sales 20 th inst(ant): refers to the date (the 20 th ) that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated May 25, 20 th instant means May 20 th mullatto (mulatto): term for a person of mixed European and black African parentage; today recognized as an archaic & pejorative term (the literal meaning is young mule ) vessel: ship Oznabrig: a coarse linen fabric Worsted (wool): a woven fabric that is tightly knit (does not have any gaps in it) 28 Difficulty Level: Challenging New-York Weekly Journal May 25, 1747 New York, May 23, 1747 Made his escape from on board the Privateer Brig, Pollux, on the 20 th inst, a Mulatto man named Storde, a Bermudian Born, aged about 23 years, pretty tall and pock broken, but not very much, but pretty large pits in his face, pretty fair, with his Head commonly shaved in order to make himself pass for a white man, by trade a carpenter; the cloathes he used to wear before he left the vessel, was a check d shirt, a striped Flannel Jacket, a pair of Oznabrig trousers, a red and white worsted cap, and some other cloathes, but can t say what they were and believe, that he caried with him both shoes and stockings, with a large pair of silver shoe buckles and a silver stock buckle and also a pair of Gold Sleeve buttons, when in Bermuda, which without doubt he had with him, and which tis thought he will offer to sell. It is very likely that he may be well dress d as he had good cloath when he left Bermuda. The above mentioned Buckles and Buttons given him by his Master Mr. Thomas Hunt of Bermuda. Whoever takes up the said Mulatto slave and delivers him to Mr. Daniel Stiles at Captain John Waldron s at New-York or to Mr. Philip Wilkinson, merchant at New-Port, Rhode Island, shall have ten pounds, as a reward and all reasonable charges paid by either. Daniel Stiles or Philip Wilkinson.

30 29 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Easy Executors/Beezley: suggests that the owner, Cpt. Beezley, has died and that Domingo is taking advantage of a time of turmoil to make his escape Spanish Negro/Domingo: slavery was practiced throughout the Atlantic colonies this description suggests relationships between different races pitted/pox: small pox was still a prominent disease; pock mark scars are often listed on runaway ads as an identifying characteristic speaks/english: reminder of the diversity of the Atlantic world. Along with the description of being Spanish, suggests Domingo is not originally from the New York area. the swamp/mary Carrey: hints at a relationship that might have been the motivation for running away Executor: someone who is finalizing an estate or carrying out the details of a will Stockade: a defensive barrier made of upright posts or stakes New York Weekly Post Boy June 27, 1748 Run away from the Executors of Captain Beezley, a Spanish Negro Man, named Domingo, about 40, pitted with small pox, but a scar under his left eye brow, speaks bad English; had on when he went away a Brown cloth Jacket, a check shirt, an old hat flapt, a striped blue and white cotton trowsers, is supposed to harbor in or about the swamp, having frequently been seen near Mary Carrey, a white woman, that frequently used to harbor him at her lodgings near the Stockade. Whoever takes up said Negro, and secures him, so that he made be had again, shall receive Twenty Shillings Reward by James Mills.

31 Context Vocabulary 30 Difficulty Level: Easy New York Weekly Post Boy November 14, 1748 wench/boy/girl/man: a mixedage group traveling together, like this one, might suggest familial relations. What might this suggest about their motive for running away? In many runaway ads, the author suggests that individuals might have run away to visit/be with family. We also know by comparing runaway ads to sale receipts that many individuals ran away relatively soon after being sold to a new location. wench: a girl or young woman, specifically of the working class Aforesaid: as mentioned earlier (in the document) Run away from John Pell of the Mannor of Pelham, a Negro wench named Bell, a boy named Janneau, a girl named Tamar, another named Dianah, another named Isabel, also a Negro Man named Lewis. Whoever will take up said Negroes, and bring them to John Pell aforesaid, shall have Five Pounds Reward, and all reasonable charges, paid by John Pell.

32 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Challenging 31 formerly/livingston: ads often mention former owners to alert neighbors in that area, should a runaway be returning to visit family from in previous location three/face: suggestive of scarification practices common in some parts of Africa. This might suggest a cultural connection to Africa, either being born there or born to family still connected to their homeland. Had/mention: the list of clothing suggests how precious textiles were during this time period. In addition to having run away herself, Nell also took with her numerous textiles and other goods, which would themselves have been quite an expense. Rigor of the law: to the full extent of the law 12 th instant: refers to the date (the 12 th ) that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated April 23, 12 th instant means April 12 th. wench: a girl or young woman, specifically of the working class petticoat: a skirt-like garment worn under a skirt or dress, either for warmth or to cause the skirt to flare out from the body homespun: describes fabric woven at home (as opposed to being purchased commercially) waiste-coate: similar to a vest Oznabrig: a coarse linen fabric sleeves: often a separate piece of clothing, so a dress could be worn with or without sleeves vessels: ships harbouring (harboring): protect/shelter gaol: jail New-York Weekly Post Boy April 23, 1753 Run away on the 12th Instant April, from ISAAC KINGSLAND of Saddle River, in Bergen County, East New Jersey, a Negro Wench named Nell, who formerly belonged to Robert J. Livingston, Merchant in New York: she is a tall slim Wench, has three Diamonds in her face, one on each side and the other on her Forehead: had on and taken with her when she went away, three Petticoats, one is an old quilted one, and the other two homespun, one striped and the other mixed, a blue and white striped short gown, a bluish homespun Waistcoat, and an Ozenbrigs shirt, with Homespun sleeves, a short blue cloke, a new pair of Blue Stockings, a pair of old crooked shoes, and several other Things too tedious to mention. These are therefore to Forewarn all Masters of Vessels and others, of carrying off, concealing or harbouring said Wench, as they will answer it at their peril with the utmost Rigour of the Law. Whoever takes up the foremention d Negroe, and secures her in any Gaol, so that her master may have her again, shall have Forty Shillings reward, and all reasonable charges paid by ISAAC KINGSLAND.

33 32 Context October 15: many runaway ads are posted during the busiest times of year of a farm schedule, such as harvest time. Perhaps the individuals knew their work would be of most value during that time, and they were in some ways sabotaging operations by running away at such a critical time. Sabbath Day: Perhaps Cuff was taking advantage of the non-working day to get a head-start before his absence was noticed. Cuff: an abbreviation of Cuffee, the Anglicanized version of Kofe, a name of the Akan people of Western Africa. speaks/negroe: tells us something about his background, and also is a reminder of the diversity of the Atlantic world. Had &c. &c. &c.: the extensive list of clothes is a reminder of the value of textiles during this time seduced away: convinced to run away wrote/pass: enslaved individuals were allowed to travel if they carried a pass, usually from an owner or oversee, that gave permission to travel. Many runaway ads list a forged pass as a possible way the individual was traveling without suspicion (and thus suggested passes should be carefully examined) been/connecticut: suggests a possible destination or stopping point passed/negro: pretending to be free Rigor/Law: full extent of the law Vocabulary Sabbath Day: Sunday Guinea: today a country in western Africa; then, it was a region known as the Guinea Coast, from present day Sierra Leone to Ghana plausable: smooth Tongue: someone who speaks artfully or glibly, a smooth talker breeches: pants ditto: same as above (in this case, another pair of pants) tow: linen trowsers: pants Lindsey/Woolsey: a fabric of linen and wool, very durable but also coarse &c. &c. &c.: stands for and company; same as our etc. N.B.: Note; from the Latin nota bene, meaning note well Difficulty Level: Challenging New-York Gazette October 15, 1753 Run away on Sabbath Day evening, Sept. 2, 1753, from his Master Chauncy Graham, of Rumbout, in Dutchess County, a likely Negro Man named Cuff, about 30 years old, well set, has had the Small Pox, is very black, speaks English pretty well for a Guinea Negroe, and very flippant; he is a plausable smooth Tongue Fellow. Had with him a pair of greenish plush breeches about two-thirds worn, and a Pair of russel ditto flowered green and yellow, two white shirts, two Pair of middling short Tow Trowsers, one pair of Thread Stockings knit in Squares, one Pair of blue fine wool ditto flowered, one Diaper Cap, one white Cotton ditto, one blue Broad Cloth Jacket with red lining, one blue homespun coat lined with streak d Lindsey Woolsey, or woolen &c. &c. &c. He is a strong Smoaker. Tis supposed he was seduced away by one Samuel Stanberry, alias Joseph Linley, a white fellow that run away with him, and tis very likely this white man has wrote the Negro a pass; for tis said he has been in Norwalk in Conecticut, and passed there for a free Negro, by the name of Joseph Jennings, and that he was making toward the Eastward. Whoever shall take up and secure said Servant, so that his Master may have him again, shall have FORTY SHILLINGS New-York Money Reward, and all reasonable charges paid by CHAUNCY GRAHAM. N.B. All Masters of Vessels are forbid to carry off said Servant, as they would not escape the utmost Rigour of the Law in that case made and provided.

34 Context speaks/english: many enslaved individuals in New York came to the area via the Caribbean. Some runaways are described as speaking broken English, whereas others, like Tom, speak it well. run/time: suggests that these two may have run off together speaks/french: a reminder of the diversity of the Atlantic world metal buttons: metal was more valuable (than wood, for example), and the detail of flowers suggests this might have been a nicer jacket Vocabulary 14 th instant: refers to the date (the 14 th ) that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated January 22, 14 th instant means January 14 th. impediment/speech: a speech impediment, difficulty speaking (like a lisp or a stutter, though it is not specified) fore teeth: front teeth (usually incisors, the sharp teeth toward the front of the mount) Kersey: coarse woolen cloth Mariners: people who work aboard boats; sailors 33 Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging New-York Gazette January 22, 1759 Ran away from Richard Harris, of Staten Island, the 14 th Instant; a Negro man named Tom, speaks good English, about 30 years of age. Ran away at the same time a Negro Boy named Harry, 14 years old, has an Impediment in his speech, speaks good French, and has lost one of Fore Teeth: They both had light coloured Kersey jackets, with white flowered Metal Buttons; Harry had a cap on, such as Mariners generally wear, and Tom had a Great coat with a cap to it, that covered his head on Occasion. Whoever takes up and secures said Negroes, so that their Master can have them again, shall receive twenty shillings reward for each, and all reasonable Charges paid by RICHARD HARRIS.

35 34 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging December 31 & 20 th Instant: The Christmas holiday was a time when owners often allowed time off for enslaved individuals to visit loved ones. Harry might have taken advantage of this break when planning to run away. iron/neck: part of a shackle system; suggests previous acts of resistance by (and subsequent punishment of) Harry mariner: someone who works aboard a boat; sailor 20 th instant: refers to the date (the 20 th ) that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated December 31, 20 th instant means December 20 th. New York Gazette December 31, 1759 New-York, December 31, 1759, RUN-AWAY, from Charles Lewis, of the City of New-York, Mariner, the 20th Instant, a negro fellow named Harry, about 5 feet 9 Inches high: Had on when he went away, an old green Jacket, and a white one under it, wore a Cap, and Woolen ribb d Stockings, and had an Iron Collar round his neck, which is not visible without examination. Whoever takes up said Negro Fellow and secures him so that his Master may have him again, shall receive Twenty Shillings reward, and all reasonable Charges paid, by Charles Lewis.

36 Context Vocabulary 6 th instant: refers to the date (the 6 th ) that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated November 6, 6 th instant means October 6 th. Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging New York Weekly Post Boy November 6, 1760 Run away from John Waddell the 6th Instant, a negro man 35 talks/born: a reminder of the diversity of the Atlantic world; at this time, many enslaved individuals in New York were coming either from the Caribbean or Africa, so this designation sets Harry apart well known: suggests his personality (also mentioned above) last/harlem: suggests a possible location; at this time, Harlem (then Haarlem) was one of three towns on Mahnattan Island, the other two being New York City (roughly present day financial district) and Greenwich (Greenwich Village) reports/negro: passes himself as a free person counterfeit/certificate: carries forged papers in order to gain passage on a ship N.B.: Note; from the Latin nota bene, meaning note well Counterfeit: fake, forged vessel: ship N.B.: Note; from the Latin nota bene, meaning note well named Charles, about 24 years old, a likely middle fine Fellow, talks good English, this Country born; he formerly belonged to Colonel Moore, is well known in town and in Harlaem, and was seen last Saturday night in Harlaem. Whoever takes up said negro and brings him to his master shall have Five Pounds reward paid by John Waddell. N.B. He reports that he is a free negro and has a Counterfeit pass or Certificate, in order to induce any Commander of a vessel to take him off.

37 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Challenging 36 September: many runaway ads are posted during the busiest times of year of a farm schedule, such as harvest time. Perhaps the individuals knew their work would be of most value during that time, and they were in some ways sabotaging operations by running away at such a critical time. Sunday: Perhaps Adonia was taking advantage of the non-working day to get a head-start before his absence was noticed. Yellow/Breed: yellow was often a description of people of white & black parentage. The use of the word breed is indicative of pejorative language that describes enslaved individuals in non-human terminology. speaks/dutch: a reminder of New York s past as a Dutch colony; also belies the notion of enslaved individuals as ignorant or uneducated very good/can make/ carpenters trade: suggests that he has training (in two fields at least) goes against the stereotype of enslaved individuals as ignorant or unskilled whip d/before: tells us something of the circumstances prior to his running away pretends/free: acts as if he is free Homespun: fabric woven at home (as opposed to commercially made) Trowsers: pants Waistcoat: similar to a vest Breeches: pants Pass: a certificate from an owner or oversee that allowed an enslaved individual to travel, usually given as a pass to visit family or a pass to travel for business purposes for the owner N.B.: Note; from the Latin nota bene, meaning note well vessels: ships New York Gazette September 30, 1762 TAPPAN, SEPT. 26. RUN AWAY last Sunday Evening, from his Master, in Orange County, Johannes Blauveldt, Blacksmith, a Negro Fellow, named as he says, ADONIA, but by us, DUCA. He is a yellow Complexion, being a mixed Breed, speaks and reads pretty good LOW DUTCH, and speaks little ENGLISH: Is a very good BLACK SMITH by Trade, and can make Leather Shoes, and do something at the CARPENTERS TRADE, is about 5 and a half Feet high, full Faced, black Hair, but cut off about one Inch long, is 20 or 22 Years old. Had on when he went away homespun Trowsers, Shirt, gray Waistcoat, and Felt Hat; took with him a check Shirt and Trowsers, a white Shirt and a Pair of blue Cloth Breeches, and one home spun Waist Coat. He had been whip d the day before he went off, which may be seen pretty much on his right side, he pretends to be free, and perhaps will get a Pass for that Purpose. Whoever takes up and secures the said Fellow, so that his Master may have him again, shall have THREE POUNDS Reward, and all reasonable Charges paid by JOHANNES BLAUVELDT. N.B. All Masters of Vessels and others are forbid to carry him away.

38 37 Context Not long/country: a reminder of the fluid nature of the trans- Atlantic world, with trade frequent from Africa to the Caribbean and American colonies Dutch & English: hints at the back story of Lucretia and reminds us of the Dutch history in the New World; her bilingual tongue also belies the notion that enslaved individuals were ignorant great/child: perhaps suggests a motive for running away, though we can t know for sure. May be running to reunite with the father, or to ensure her child a better life very/walking: description, perhaps due to her pregnancy very/complexion: description entrusted/sell: suggests that Lucretia was about to be sold, perhaps hinting at another motive for running away Vocabulary instant: refers to the date that had most recently passed. Since the ad is dated March 1763, instant refers to the most recent month of May (1762). petticoat: a skirt-like garment worn under a skirt or dress, either for warmth or to cause the skirt to flare out from the body waiste-coate: similar to a vest subscriber: person writing the ad N.B.: Note; from the Latin nota bene, meaning note well Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging New York Gazette March 05, 1763 WENT AWAY ON SUNDAY MORNING, THE 1ST DAY OF MAY INSTANT, from the house of ADAM STATES, a negro woman called LUCRETIA or CRETIA. She is low in stature, has not been long in the Country, and speaks broken Dutch and English, she has had the smallpox and is also great with Child. She had on when she went away, a black Petticoat mended or patched on both Sides, a white Apron and a speckled Handkerchief, a blue waistcoat and laced cap with a blue short Cloak. She is very slow in walking and is very black of Complexion: She was entrusted into the Care of the Subscriber to sell, and belongs to the Widow MARY DAUCHY, N. Y. Any person who takes up and secures the said negro woman so that her Mistress or the subscriber may have her again, shall receive THREE POUNDS IN NEW YORK MONEY and all reasonable charges paid by HENRY JACOB PITTS. N.B. All masters of vessels are hereby forewarn d not to carry her off as they will answer at their peril.

39 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Challenging 38 yellow complexion: yellow was often a description of people of white & black parentage speaks/dutch: a reminder of New York s past as a Dutch colony; also belies the notion of enslaved individuals as ignorant or uneducated who/sold AND from/mistress: suggests a pattern of being sold and running away, perhaps as a way of trying to take control of his fate; the mention of previous owners is a call out to their neighbors to be on the lookout, as runaways might have trying to reconnect with family at previous homes pretended/swim AND clothes/shore: suggestive of the method he used to run away undetected supposed/known: again reflects past efforts to run away; states that he was believed to have drowned until the owners realized that this was a pattern of behavior [to fight his enslavement] visage: face subscriber: person placing the ad method: precautions, measures gaol: jail The New York Gazette September 4, 1766 R U N A W A Y on Saturday the 23rd of August last, from Nathaniel Richards at Newark, a Negro man named Ben, about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, aged 28, slim made, thin visage, yellow Complexion, and can speak good Dutch. He formerly belonged to Thomas Budde, at Morris-town in New Jersey, who several months ago sold him to the Widow Mrs. Elizabeth Finn at Prakenas in the County of Bergen, from whom he run away soon after, and being advertised, was taken and brought home to his Mistress, by whom he was sold soon after to the Subscriber. When he went away he pretended that he was going to swim, and as he never returned, and next day his Clothes were found near the Shore, he was supposed to be drown d, till his Character was known, which gives Reason to suppose he took Method to deceive his Master and prevent a Search. It is not known whether he had any clothes with him or not. Whoever returns him to his Master or secures him in any gaol, shall receive Eight Dollars Reward and all reasonable charges. NATHANIEL RICHARDS. (NOTE: This was one of four advertisements for Ben between the years 1766 and 1770.)

40 Context Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging 39 stolen/mother: suggests that a mother (an enslaved woman) had no claim to her own children; the mother stole property from an owner New-Jersey Gazette April 23, DOLLARS REWARD. WAS stolen by her mother, a NEGRO GIRL about 9 or 10 married/indian & male child: mention of family relationships and suggests at a motive for running away; at this time, the law for children was that the status of the child reflected the status of the mother. A child born to an enslaved woman, regardless of the father s status, would have been born enslaved to the mother s (Cash s) owner. Any person/spirits: An ad like this would have run in the classifieds section of the paper. This add-on to the runaway ad for an unrelated ad is a reminder that enslaved individuals were thought of as property, not humans and the ad writer is taking advantage of column space left over from the runaway ad. subscriber: person writing the ad distilling rye spirits: brewing alcohol find encouragement: find a position available years old, named DIANAH--Her mother's name is CASH, and was married to an Indian named LEWIS WOLIS near 6 feet high, about 35 years of age--they have a male child with them between three and four years old. Any person that takes up the said Negroes and Indian and secures them, so that the subscriber may get them, shall have the above reward and all reasonable charges. Any person that understands distilling rye spirits, may find encouragement by applying to the subscriber at his own house. KENNETH HANKINSON. Penelapon, East New-Jersey, April 15, 1778.

41 Context night: perhaps to evade detection Vocabulary Difficulty Level: Somewhat Challenging The Royal Gazette (New York) May 24, 1783 FIVE GUINEAS REWARD 40 with/children: suggests a family dynamic and a possible reason to run away pitted/pox: small pox was still a prominent disease; pock mark scars are often listed on runaway ads as an identifying characteristic yellow complexion: yellow was often a description of people of white & black parentage. The fact that this description is included just for the younger son suggests that he might have been the offspring of Violet and the owner. Hair/wooll (wool): The use of the word wool is indicative of pejorative language that describes enslaved individuals in non-human terminology. wench: a girl or young woman, specifically of the working class apprehends: captures, arrests subscriber: person placing the ad WENT off from his master on Thursday night, a Negro Wench, called VIOLET, with her male children, one about 7 years old, called Willis, the other about two years old, named Joe. The Wench is about 26 years old, tall, thin, and somewhat pitted with the small-pox. The youngest boy is rather of a yellow complexion. Both boys have lately had their hair or wooll cut short. Whoever apprehends said Negroes, and brings them to the Subscriber s House, at Greenwich, shall have a reward of Five Guineas immediately paid them. David Campbell.