In the June 5, 1826 edition of the Alexandria Phenix Gazette, John Armfield runs his first newspaper advertisement announcing his intention to purchase enslaved people. Armfield would go on to become one of the most prominent slave traders in Virginia as a junior partner in the firm Franklin and Armfield of Alexandria.
Cash for Negroes.
THE subscriber wishes to purchase THIRTY-FIVE OR FORTY LIKELY NEGROES, either separately or in families, for which the highest price will be given. –Apply at Mr. Elias P. Legg’s , on St. Asaphstreet, or any information addressed to me in Alexandria, through the post-office, will be attended to.
