Martinez in Contra Costa County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
James Rankin
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, March 31, 2016
1. James Rankin Marker
In 1865, at the age of 17, James Rankin emigrated from a Scottish coal mining town after hearing of the "Black Gold" in Contra Costa. He worked with pick and shovel in the underground mines of Somersville.
In 1885, Rankin was elected sheriff and move to Martinez. Rankin owned 50 acres on what is now Rankin Park, upon which he planted some 400 olive trees. He now rests in the Alhambra Cemetery here in Martinez.
Erected by E Clampus Vitus, Joaquin Murrieta Chapter No. 13. (Marker Number 1996.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Settlements & Settlers. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus series list.
Location. 38° 0.936′ N, 122° 8.658′ W. Marker is in Martinez, California, in Contra Costa County. Marker is on Buckley Street near Talbart Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 105 Buckley Street, Martinez CA 94553, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Dedicated to the Family of Don Ignacio Martinez (about 700 feet away, measured in a direct line); Home of County Supervisor (about 800 feet away); Former Anti-Aircraft W.W. II Barracks (approx. 0.2 miles away); 335 Talbart
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More about this marker. The James Rankin markers is located in Rankin Park, behind the baseball field at the end of Buckley Street.
Photographed By Barry Swackhamer, March 31, 2016
2. James Rankin Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on October 5, 2023. It was originally submitted on April 1, 2016, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California. This page has been viewed 589 times since then and 49 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 1, 2016, by Barry Swackhamer of Brentwood, California.
