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History of Ripley, Ohio, USA
Journey back in time to Ripley, Ohio, USA
Also known as(Staunton)
Explore the history, people, photographs, newspapers, postcards, and genealogy connected to Ripley, Ohio, USA.
ABOUT THE PLACE
About Ripley
Ripley, Brown, OH
Colonel James Poage, a veteran of the American Revolution, arrived in the free state of Ohio from Staunton, Virginia in 1804 to claim the 1,000 acres (4.0 km2) he had been granted in what was called the Virginia Military District. Poage was among a large group of veterans who received land grants in what was first organized as the Northwest Territory north of the Ohio River for their service in the American Revolutionary War, and freed their slaves when they settled there. Poage and his family laid out the town of Staunton in 1812; it was renamed in 1816 to honor General Eleazar Wheelock Ripley, an American officer of the War of 1812.
Given its location on the river, Ripley became a destination for slaves escaping from slavery in Kentucky on the other side. Both black and white residents developed a network, making Ripley an early stop on the Underground Railroad, to help slaves escape north to freedom...
Colonel James Poage, a veteran of the American Revolution, arrived in the free state of Ohio from Staunton, Virginia in 1804 to claim the 1,000 acres (4.0 km2) he had been granted in what was called the Virginia Military District. Poage was among a large group of veterans who received land grants in what was first organized as the Northwest Territory north of the Ohio River for their service in the American Revolutionary War, and freed their slaves when they settled there. Poage and his family laid out the town of Staunton in 1812; it was renamed in 1816 to honor General Eleazar Wheelock Ripley, an American officer of the War of 1812.
Given its location on the river, Ripley became a destination for slaves escaping from slavery in Kentucky on the other side. Both black and white residents developed a network, making Ripley an early stop on the Underground Railroad, to help slaves escape north to freedom...
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VINTAGE RIPLEY
Ripley Nostalgia: Vintage Photos, Ads, and Postcards
Ripley, Ohio, USA
Postcard
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Ripley, Ohio, USA
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 - View from Kentucky shore){kind=small}
View from Kentucky shore
Ripley, Ohio, USA
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 - Presbyterian Church){kind=small}
Presbyterian Church
Ripley, Ohio, USA
Postcard
 - Union High School){kind=small}
Union High School
Genealogy gifts & optional resources
OPTIONAL EXTRAS
Genealogy Gifts & Resources Related to RIPLEY
I Love OHIO Mug – Cincinnati Chili, Buckeye Candy & Pierogies Coffee Cup
Celebrate the flavors and pride of Ohio with this vibrant ceramic mug! Featuring iconic Ohio treats—Cincinnati chili, Buckeye candy, and pierogies—plus the “I Love Ohio!” slogan, it’s perfect for locals, Ohio enthusiasts, and food lovers alike.
OHIO HERITAGE - "My Ancestors Came From Ohio!" Ceramic Mug
Embrace your Ohio heritage with a dash of humor and a sip of your favorite beverage! Our "My Ancestors Came From Ohio!" Ceramic Mug is perfect for showcasing your Buckeye pride and unique skills. Whether you're a die-hard Buckeye football fan or an expert at navigating the infamous potholes on your way to the next chili cook-off, this mug captures the essence of Ohio living.
LOCAL HISTORY
Discover Ripley: History, News, Travel, and Stories
Explore the events, newspaper stories, people, and moments that shaped Ripley through the years.
Ripley's history began in 1812 when the village was founded by Colonel James Poage.
The name of the village was changed to Ripley in 1816 honoring General Eleazar Wheelock Ripley, an American commander in the War of 1812.
Pioneer settlers of Ripley were predominately of Scotch and Irish descent.
In the 1840-1850's a large influx of German immigrants settled in Ripley as the landscape reminded them of their German homeland.
1854 - Ripley
Ripley, a flourishing post-village of Union township, Brown county. Ohio, is beautifully situated on the Ohio river, 66 miles above Cincinnati. It is the largest town in the county, and is the centre of an active trade. It is built on a narrow strip of land which is confined between the river and a steep declivity. A plank-road has been laid from this town to Locust Grove. Ripley contains 6 churches, 1 printing office, 1 female semi nary, and a high-school for both sexes, styled Ripley College: also, 1 foundry a few mills and 1 bank. Settled in 1812, and originally called Staunton. Population in 1850, 1780.
The town of Ripley was an early stop on the Underground Railroad, helping slaves escape the South by crossing the Ohio River into the North.
In her pursuit of freedom, Margaret Garner risked her life while crossing the frozen river to reach Ripley. The character of Eliza in the Harriet Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin" was inspired by Garner.
1895 - Ripley
Ripley, a post-village in Union township, Brown co., O., is beautifully situated on the Ohio River, 5.4 miles above Cincinnati, and about 10 miles below Maysville, Ky. It is the most populous town in the county. Its site is a narrow portion of land enclosed between the river and a steep bluff. It contains 7 churches, 2 national banks, 1 other bank, 2 newspaper offices, a union school, a foundry, and manufactures of pianos, tobacco, and sash and blinds. Pop. 2546.
1915 - Ripley - Late in 1915 the Union Township Public Library opened for business.
1937 - Ohio River flooded Ripley
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There are several places to go and things to do in and around Ripley. Here's a list:
John P. Parker House: Start your journey through Ripley's rich history at the John P. Parker House. This historic site was once the home of John Parker, a former slave who became a prominent conductor on the Underground Railroad. The house offers guided tours that provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of Parker and his role in helping enslaved individuals escape to freedom.
Rankin House: Another significant stop on the Underground Railroad is the Rankin House. Located just a short drive from Ripley in nearby Georgetown, this historic house was owned by Presbyterian minister John Rankin, who helped hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom. Take a guided tour to learn about Rankin's abolitionist activities and the secret tunnels used by escaping slaves.
Ripley Museum: To explore more of Ripley's history, visit the Ripley Museum. It houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town's past, from its early days to its involvement in the Underground...
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Rankin House: Another significant stop on the Underground Railroad is the Rankin House. Located just a short drive from Ripley in nearby Georgetown, this historic house was owned by Presbyterian minister John Rankin, who helped hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom. Take a guided tour to learn about Rankin's abolitionist activities and the secret tunnels used by escaping slaves.
Ripley Museum: To explore more of Ripley's history, visit the Ripley Museum. It houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the town's past, from its early days to its involvement in the Underground...
GENEALOGY IN RIPLEY
Discover YOUR Roots: Ripley Ancestry
Explore ancestors connected to Ripley through births, deaths, marriages, cemeteries, and local genealogy resources.
BIRTHS & DEATHS
Ancestors Who Were Born or Died in Ripley, Ohio, USA
We currently have information about 21 ancestors who were born or died in Ripley.
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Ancestors Who Were Married in Ripley, Ohio, USA
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Updated: 9/15/2023 9:19:44 AM
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