Historic Ripley, Ohio

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Given its location on the river, Ripley became a destination for slaves escaping from slavery in Kentucky. Both black and white residents developed a network, making Ripley an early stop on the Underground Railroad, to help slaves escape north to freedom. A number of prominent abolitionists lived in the town in the 19th century, mainly on Front Street near the river. John Rankin moved from Kentucky to Ripley in 1822 and later built a house on Liberty Hill overlooking the town, the river, and the Kentucky shore. From there, he signaled escaping slaves with a lantern on a flagpole and provided them shelter.

GPS Location: 38°44'29.2"N 83°50'34.0"W