Description:

Slavery
Boston, MA, September 23, 1789
1789 Issue of the "Massachusetts Centinel": Judiciary Bill & French Revolution with Runaway Slave Ad
Newspaper

An issue of the "Massachusetts Centinel" containing political news on the Judiciary Bill, early reports of the Revolution in France referencing Lafayette, and an ad for a runaway slave. 4pp, measuring 9.75" x 14.75", Boston, dated September 23, 1789. Vol. XII, No. 3, printed by Benjamin Russell. The newspaper has flattened folds, with uneven toning and foxing. Slightly rough, uneven edges. Very good overall.

Highlights from the paper:
"Proceedings in the House of Representatives…at New-York. Saturday, Sept. 12. The House, in committee, proceeded in the discussion of the Judiciary Bill…Monday, Sept. 14…The House then further discussed the Judiciary Bill - some amendments thereof were passed - and the Bill gone through in committee…Tuesday, Sept. 15…The Judiciary Bill under consideration - The House proceeded to consider the amendments - but could not complete the business. Wednesday, Sept. 16…The Judicial Bill was completed - and transmitted to the Senate."

"We deem it necessary to mention, that the intelligence of the REVOLUTION in FRANCE, announced in our last…That at the last date of this intelligence [Aug. 1] everything was tranquil at Paris - that M. Necker had resumed his station at the head of the Finances - that an act of General Amnesty and Pardon had been published - that the fugitives were returning - and that the States-General were daily employed in forming a new CONSTITUTION for the Monarchy of France - the Kingdom of the Patriot King, Louis XVI…The English foolishly assert, that the French Patriots have learnt the principles of Liberty from them. They forget that the first Declaration of Rights ever published in France, was almost verbatim a copy of parts of the American Constitutions - and that the Nobleman who has been the principle animating cause of the French Revolution - learnt during his resident in America that here - and here only - are the Rights of Men ascertained…"

"Ten Dollars Reward. RUNAWAY, yesterday, a Negro, named Lindor, alias John, about 24 years of age, 5 feet 4 inches high; wears a new blue sailor's dress, and a leather cap, but it is supposed will change them. He has a full face, pitted with small pox, African nose and lips - he speaks pretty good English, French, and Creole; He calls himself a West-India free negro - and it is supposed that he will endeavour to engage himself as cook on board some ship…"

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 9.75" x 14.75"
  • Medium: Newspaper

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