James Rankin was an emigrant from North Ireland, and in 1773 purchased the place, one hundred and eighteen acres, now owned by Abbie A. Hinkson, in Highland township.  He married Mary Arbuckle, and their son James married Susanna Riddle.  To them were born eight children, of whom John was the eldest son and second child.  He was raised on the farm, educated in the common schools, and became great reader, storing his mind with useful information.  He taught school in his younger days, and was a pupil under the noted John Sloan, an Irish teacher of distinction.  He was married March 9, 1820, to Martha, daughter of Alexander and Abigail Andrews, of Andrews' Bridge.  Their only child, Abbie Ann, was born March 15, 1821, and was married Jan. 20, 1842 to Eli W. Hinkson, of Highland township, who died June 5, 1873.  John Rankin, like his ancestors, was a rigid Presbyterian, and many years an elder in the church at Fagg's Manor.  He was a strong anti-slavery man, and took part in the agitation of the great slavery question when it began, about 1828, and when it was attended with great perils to life and property.  He was prominently identified with the temperance movement, and was the first in his section to banish liquor from the harvest field.  He was very active in politics, being an ardent supporter and advocate of the principles of the Republican party up to the time of his death.  He was a man of strong convictions, clear judgment, and possessed moral courage to the highest degree.  His wife, Martha Andrews, was of the same nationality and religion,-North Irish Presbyterian.  He died April 1, 1851, and was buried at Fagg's Manor churchyard, and in his death passed away an upright citizen, who lived for humanity's cause and progress.  His daughter and only child, Abbie A. Hinkson, has had eight children:  Martha R., married to E. Mancill; J. Alfred, deceased; Harriet Newell, married to Henry B. Burn; Edwin E.,; J. Rankin, married to E. Duncan; Annie M., married to David B. Clark; Ella A.; and Horace F., deceased.  This farm has been in the possession of the Rankin family one hundred and eight years.