Born in May 1851, James Rankin immigrated to the United States from Scotland when in his teens. He first found employment and learned the trade of plumbing from his uncle, Mr. Dalziel of Oakland. He continued to work with his uncle for about twenty years until he was able to establish, in partnership with a Mr. Moore, his own firm, Rankin & Moore. Five years later, Mr. Rankin sold his interest to Mr. Moore and began independently. In 1904 he took his two sons into partnership with him, the firm being known as James Rankin & Sons. Their business was very successful both as to quality and quantity of work, winning them many friends and patrons.

Number of containers: 3 boxes, 1 portfolio, 1 oversize folder Linear ft.: 1.7

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