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Ripley, Ohio Travel Guide

Ohio River

Ripley is a tiny Ohio River town located fifty miles Southeast of Cincinnati. Though it does not appear as much at first glance, its history is known to most in the United States.

Founded in 1812 by Colonel James Poage and his family, the town was originally called Staunton after Staunton, Virginia where Poage was from. In 1816, the town was renamed to Ripley after an American officer from the War of 1812.

In the 1800s, prominent abolitionists were scattered throughout the city, concentrating mainly on Front Street very near the Ohio River. These abolitionists consisted of John Rankin, John Parker, Thomas McCague, Thomas Collins and Dr. Alexander Campbell, amoung many others whose names have been lost or anonymous over the years.

John Parker grew up as a slave, bought his freedom, and then opened up a shop in Ripley, Ohio, where he started a family. Parker was crucial in freeing slaves on the Underground Railroad and was nearly caught too many times to mention. Visitors can tour the Parker House on Front Street and learn about some of his heroic deeds.

John Rankin, originally from Kentucky, moved to Ripley in 1822 to become the minister at the Ripley Presbyterian Church. He later built a house on Liberty Hill overlooking the town, the Ohio River and the shore of Kentucky. The house is now a national landmark and can be toured year-round. From his house, Rankin was able to signal escaping slaves with a light in the window. The attic, basement and floor of one of the rooms were all shelter locations for the runaways. A small stone and wooden staircase led from town up to the top of Liberty Hill, the climb to freedom. Visitors can choose to drive up the hill or take the path.

The Rankin House

In 1838, a slave woman escaped with her baby from Kentucky, crossing the icy Ohio River in the dead of Winter with hounds on her heels. Rankin assisted in her escape. Decades later, Rankin and this woman would become famous for inspiring the character Eliza in Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, Uncle Tom's Cabin. The harrowing escape that Stowe spoke of in her novel opened the eyes of Americans to slavery, and quite possibly helped eg on the Civil War.

The Signal House, another Underground Railroad hotspot, can also be visited on Front Street just down the street from the Parker House.

Ripley has other various sites located throughout the town for visitors, including gorgeous views of the Ohio River.

On Front Street, overlooking the river, is a charming cafe/diner. Great food and view set in a 1950's style atmosphere, this is a great dining spot while visiting.