Maryland runaway slave broadside achieves $12,000

A runaway slave broadside issued in Maryland in 1802 topped a sale at Early American History Auctions in Santa Fe, California on April 26, selling for $12,000.

The document begins: "Forty Dollars Reward. Ranaway from the Subscribers, near Frederick-Town, on the 18th inst. the two negro men herein after described", followed by a description of the two men - who are named as "Negro Harry" and "Negro Len".

runaway slave broadside
The broadside was issued by two slave owners in Maryland in the early 1800s

Two slave owners issued the document, which offers a chilling insight into the darkest period of American history.

Despite its advanced age, the lot is in exceptional condition.

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