From the article “Sold on Reasonable Terms” in the Autumn 2010 journal.
George Washington drums up publicity for a public auction.
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A runaway slave's stature, clothing, and skills are described in detail.
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Takers are tempted by the description of a likely tavern "built with all convenient out-houses."
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Travelers headed north might book a passage on the sloop Swan.
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A trip by coach from Philadelphia to New York was advertised for “Three Hard Dollars,” coins made from precious metal.
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Mr. Prentiss, a Philadelphia shoe- and bootmaker, used a newspaper ad to inform customers of a move to Front Street.
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A trio of ads extoll the virtues of a tavern, a carpenter, and a ship loaded with goods.
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Benjamin Franklin's warning to the British colonies in America "join or die" exhorting them to unite against the French and the Natives, shows a segmented snake, "S.C., N.C., V., M., P., N.J., N.Y., [and] N.E."
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A typical runaway slave ad takes an unusual turn when the absconded servant is "of the Indian Breed."
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Virginians' demand for stylish vehicles has not diminished in the centuries since this ad was published.
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An exasperated owner's detailed ad tells the tale of the escape of two servants.
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A merchant announces the auction of "150 healthy servants."
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The colony's governor offers his stallion's services.
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A runaway's owner hopes to identify his slave by the trade he might practice.
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An estate sale advertised at the death of Captain Dixon lists the deceased's worldly possessions.
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Every item imaginable can be had at the establishment of one William Pitt.
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