In 1820, William and Mary Rankin moved from Virginia to Ohio with their infant son George. The Rankin's were among the earliest settlers in Newton Township. George Rankin grew up to be one of the most successful farmers and merchants in the township. He owned 1,400 acres of land, which was known as the Rankin Estate. It stretched from where Avondale is now located all the way to Newtonville (White Cottage).

George Rankin built this magnificent house around 1845. A gristmill, sawmill, and even the first pottery shop in the township were located on his property. George built and operated the first general store in Newtonville, on part of the land he owned there. The I.O.O.F Hall in Newtonville was known as the Rankin Lodge. He reared a family of seven children with his wife Eliza. George's son, William, became a successful man as well. He was highly respected in the township, just like his father.