JOHN RANKIN HOUSE
HISTORICAL SITE

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

 

Client: Ohio Historical Society

Location: Ripley, Ohio

Size: 50 acres

 

The Rankin House, a National Historic Landmark, was an important first stop on the Underground Railroad.  John Rankin, a legendary Presbyterian minister and educator, was active in the antislavery movement from 1822 to 1863.  His family house sits on a steep hill, above Ripley Ohio with an expansive view of the village below, the Ohio River, and the hills of Kentucky beyond. The Ohio Historical Society is responsible for the preservation and stewardship of this important historic site.

 

The purpose of the Rankin House Master Plan is to guide long term site improvements.  Key issues include handicapped accessibility, parking, the visitors center, historic gardens and landscaping, interpretive signage, future archaeological work, and outdoor gathering spaces.  The master plan keeps the primary residence land untouched except for archaeological dig sites, reconstruction of agricultural buildings, a reconstructed vegetable garden, and low profile interpretive signs. 

 

A new visitors center is set at the approach into the ridgeline with new parking lot and loop drive out of sight.  A subtle walkway is set into the gentle slope between the center and house.