Reading Public Library (1C) - Runaway Slave Ad

Other records echo the desire to tally the number of enslaved persons living in Reading, for example 34 were counted in the 1765 census. In rural areas like Reading, Black and enslaved persons made up about 3% of the population, while in urban areas like Boston or Salem, they would have been closer to 10%. 

But, the enslaved were more than just a number, they were individuals with stories. Finding the more personal and remarkable details of their lives can be challenging, but not impossible.

Our next document is a runaway advertisement from the 1765 Boston Gazette and Country Journal. We obtained a digital copy from the American Antiquarian Society in Worcester.

Most enslaved people left no personal written records, but runaway slave advertisements can be read as if they were short biographies and the reader can learn a lot about Cole, the runaway, from this ad.  

Could we get our other volunteer to read. As we read, think about what we can learn about Cole from this advertisement.

_____________________

Reading, August 12, 1765

Ran-away from his Master

Nathan Parker of Reading, on the 7th Instant at Night,

A Negro Man named COLE, about 27 Years of Age,

And about 5 feet 6 Inches high, well-sett, speaks good

English, and has a demure Countenance: Had on and

Took with him, a light blue Coat, and also a light Coat,

A check Holland Jacket without Sleeves, a Pair of

Check and a Pair of white Trowsers, a new check and

An old white Shirt, and a new Felt Hat - He took

With him a very good Gun, with the Name of his Master

Engrav’d at large on the Thumb Piece which was Silver,

And an old Sword Whoever takes up said Negro, and

Will convey him to his said Master, shall have TWO

DOLLARS Reward and all necessary charges paid.

NATHAN PARKER.

All Masters of Vessels and others are hereby cauti-

Oned against harbouring, concealing or carrying off said

Servant, on Penalty of the Law.

_____________________

So what do we know about Cole? 

Physically Cole was around 27 years old, 5 foot 6, with a sturdy build. That Cole “speaks good English” might be a statement about his ability to speak the dominant English language or it could be an example of white societal stereotypes that African Americans had poor speaking skills. 

With “a demure Countenance,” Cole’s owner saw him as reserved, modest, and shy, all traits that he may have utilized purposely in his subservient role.  These are also characteristics which might have helped Cole hide his plans to run away. 

His significant amount of clothing and other goods may have helped him “dress the part of a free man.”   

In common with other runaway slave ads for strong young men, Parker cautioned ship captains from letting him join their crew. Nathan Parker must have been worried that Cole would flee to Boston to find work in maritime industries. Many runaways did indeed go to ports in search of sanctuary and money as well as their freedom. 

Despite Nathan Parker’s “TWO DOLLARS REWARD” and “all necessary Charges paid” there is no evidence that Cole was ever returned to him - Cole does not appear in Nathan Parker's probate record.CAt