The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism's Essential Founding Father
By Caleb Franz
THE CONDUCTOR: The Story of Rev. John Rankin,
Abolitionism’s Essential Founding Father
October 15, 2024 (Post Hill Press)
Known in his day as the “Father of Abolitionism,” Reverend John Rankin is one of the greatest heroes previously lost to history.
Sitting high above the small community of Ripley, Ohio, a lantern shone in the front window of a small, red brick home at night. It was a signal to slaves in Kentucky—a beacon of liberty in the darkness—just across the Ohio River. Anyone fleeing bondage could look to Reverend John Rankin’s home for hope. To the slaveholders they fled from, Rankin’s activities as a “conductor” on the Underground Railroad invoked rage. Mobs often pelted Rankin with eggs and rocks, bounties were placed on his head, and midnight assassins lurked in the darkness, waiting for the right opportunity to take out the “Father of Abolitionism.” Despite frequent threats, he remained committed to the freedom of his fellow man.
Rankin’s impact extended well beyond Ripley. In The Conductor, author Caleb Franz tells the story of the man who served as a George Washington–type figure to the antislavery movement. Rankin’s leadership brought unity and clarity to the often factious abolitionists of the nineteenth century. William Lloyd Garrison, Harriet Beecher Stowe, and countless others found inspiration in his teachings.
Rich with drama and adventure, The Conductor elevates Reverend John Rankin to his proper place in the pantheon of American heroes.
About The Author
Caleb Franz is a writer, researcher, storyteller, and nonprofit professional residing in Lexington, Kentucky. He is the author of THE CONDUCTOR: The Story of Rev. John Rankin, Abolitionism’s Essential Founding Father, released on October 15, 2024 through Post Hill Press. Caleb’s historical writing often highlights the forgotten people, places, and events that help define the American story. His expertise spans multiple eras throughout American history, but he specializes in the early republic, antebellum, and Civil War periods. Caleb’s work has been featured in various outlets including RealClear History, the Washington Examiner, the Independent, Religion and Liberty Online, and the Louisville Courier Journal, among others.
Alongside his historical writing, Caleb has served as Program Manager at Young Voices since 2021. In this capacity, Caleb helps to mentor young journalists and policy writers by sharpening their storytelling ability and accelerating their career trajectory through various fellowships and networking opportunities. Before this work, Caleb served in the U.S. Army through the Ohio National Guard for six years, which included one tour in Kuwait.
Events
Caleb is scheduled to speak at various book talks, signings, lectures, and conferences. Explore the list of upcoming and recent events below:
AF-DC
Heroes Lost to History
Washington, DC
Thursday, October 24
6 pm ETAF Clubhouse (1367 Connecticut Avenue NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC)
THE CONDUCTOR
Reception & Lecture
Carlise, KY
Friday, November 1
6:30 pm ETCarlise Historical Society Museum (108 West Main St, Carlise, KY)
Contact
Want to host a book event, have Caleb speak to your group, or just get in touch? You can reach out by filling out the following form: