John Walker Rankin (June 11, 1823 – July 10, 1869) was an American politician and judge. Described as "one of the most eminent lawyers of Iowa" by The Toledo Chronicle, he served as a member of the Iowa State Senate from 1858 to 1867.[1]
Judge John Walker Rankin | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 11, 1823 Washington County, Pennsylvania |
| Died | July 10, 1869 (aged 46) Keokuk, Iowa |
| Rank | Colonel |
| Unit | 17th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment |
| Known for | Member, Iowa State Senate, 1858-1862 |
| Battles / wars | American Civil War |
| Other work | Lawyer and state senator |
Biography
editBorn in Washington County, Pennsylvania on June 11, 1823, Rankin graduated from Washington & Jefferson College. He then taught school and studied law.
Rankin was subsequently admitted to the Pennsylvania bar. In 1848, Rankin moved to Keokuk, Lee County, Iowa, where he continued to practice law.[2]
During the American Civil War, Rankin helped to recruit men for the 17th Iowa Volunteer Infantry Regiment, and was then commissioned as its colonel.
In 1857, Rankin was appointed Iowa District Court judge for Lee County. From 1858 to 1862, Rankin served in the Iowa State Senate and was a Republican.
Death
editRankin died at his home in Keokuk, Iowa on July 10, 1869.[3][4]
References
edit- ^ Col.John W. Rankin, in "Gen. Supt." Toledo, Ohio: The Toledo Chronicle, July 15, 1869, p. 2 (subscription required).
- ^ "Col. John W. Rankin." Ottumwa, Iowa: The Weekly Courier, July 15, 1869, p. 2 (subscription required.
- ^ Iowa Legislature-John Walker Rankin
- ^ 'Obituary-John M. Rankin,' Keokuk Daily Constitution (Iowa), July 11, 1869, pg.4.