David Graffenread, Runaway Mulatto, King William Co., Virginia 1774
I found the following advertisement in the Virginia Gazette dated 17 Feb 1774. I am aware that many African-American DeGraffenreid families flourished in North Carolina during the ninteeenth century and I thought this might be of use to someone, especially my old pal Salvatore.
Run away from the Subscriber, in King William, a Mulatto Fellow named David Graffenread, about five Feet seven or eight Inches high, well made, a remarkable wide Mouth, a large Lump on one of his Legs, I believe the left, and a Piece bit out of the lower Part of his left Ear; carried Nothing remarkable with him, except a light coloured Duffil Great Coat, but may perhaps have altered his Dress. He made an Elopement once before, pretended to pass as a free Man, and got a Pass, is a very sensible Fellow, can play the Fiddle extremely well, and is very fond of Liquor. As I imagine he will endeavour to get on Board some Vessel, I forewarn all Masters of Vessels, and others, from harbouring the said Fellow. Whoever delivers him to me, or secures him so that I get him, shall have 5l. if taken in this Colony, and 10l. if taken in any other.
Richard King.