Rochester (NY) Frederick Douglass' Paper, "Negro Stampede," June 24, 1853

NEGRO STAMPEDE. – Slaves are running away from Missouri, at the present time, in battalions. Three belonging to Mr. R Meek of Weston, ran away on Wednesday of last week— two of whom were afterwards apprehended. They were asking for the Plains. Fifteen made a stampede from Ray county, the week before, and took the line of their march for Iowa. Several were captured in Grundy country, but the larger number made good their escape. It would be a glorious thing for Missouri, if all her slaves should take into their heads to run away. If she only knew it, they are one of the greatest drawbacks to her advancement and prosperity. – Alton Ill) Telegraph.