A grim reminder of “the peculiar institution”

An ad for an escaped slave
An ad for an escaped slave placed by Abel Whalen of Milton, NY

Another reminder that yes, there was slavery in the Capital District. This handbill from 1809, part of the Albany Institute of History and Art collection, calls for the return of a slave to Abel Whalen of Milton.

A Runaway Negro.

RAN AWAY

From the subscriber on the night of the 11th inst. a Negro man, named

JACK,

About five feet eight or nine inches high; stout, thick set, and well made. Had on, when he went away, a black Nap’t Hat; a butter-nut colour Sailor Coat; had a small pack or bundle of clothes with him.

Any person who will secure said Negro in some gaol [jail], or return him, shall be handsomely rewarded, and all reasonable charges paid, by the subscriber.

Abel Whalen. Milton, 13th June, 1809.

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