The John Rankin House
John Rankin was a minister and prominent abolitionist during the 1800’s. Born in Tennessee, he worked extensively in central Kentucky, and ultimately built a home that would serve as one of the most important stops on the Underground Railroad in southern Ohio.
The John Rankin House was specifically built on a prominent hill overlooking the Ohio River. From this towering perch the house could be easily seen for miles in both directions along the river. At night Rankin would hang a lantern from a post on the hill, acting as a lighthouse to guide escaped slaves as they crossed the river into the free-state. He even built a path and staircase to help the slaves climb the steep hill to the relative safety of his home.
Upon reaching his house the escaped slaves could get food, rest, and advice for continuing on their journey through Ohio and ultimately to Canada where they could finally be safe from fear of recapture.
Mr. Rankin also just happened to be friends with the parents of Harriet Beecher Stowe, and ultimately shared a few of his personal experiences from working the railroad with the family. One of these stories would ultimately be directly used in her famous novel “Uncle Tom’s Cabin”, which helped stir up anti-slavery passions in the north and arguably helped spark the Civil War.
Rankin may have built the house on “Liberty Hill” purely for logistical reasons, but an added benefit of this towering perch is the absolutely gorgeous view of the Ohio River valley below. Standing on that hill you can’t help but appreciate the natural beauty, as you feel the enormity of the weight of history all around you. If you were a slave that happened to escape through Kentucky, there is a very good chance that you stayed at this house.
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6152 Rankin Hill Rd, Ripley, OH 45167
