The Historical Spectator

Social Media in 1810

A husband places an advertisement against his absconded wife on the front page of the Kentucky Gazette; his wife responds in the same forum. Their argument is now public knowledge in Lexington and wheresoever else the Gazette penetrates. This is Facebook, 1810 style.

MY WIFE Nancy has eloped my bed and board without any just cause, I therefore forewarn all people from harbouring or crediting her on my account as I am determined to pay no debts contracted by her.

HUGH M‘NARY
March 21, 1810.


NOTICE.

AS HUGH M‘NARY has forewarned all persons from crediting or harbouring me on his account, I therefore, forewarn all persons from purchasing his property, as I am determined never to relinquish my right during life, and if he had treated me even with humanity, and not have put me under the authority of his daughters, who, for nearly two years past have called themselves my mistresses, and who have acted in every respect as such, or rather as tyrants over me; I say if this had not been the case, which I can fully prove, I never should have left his house.

NANCY M‘NARY
Lexington, April 2, 1810.

——Kentucky Gazette, April 17, 1810.