Rhinelander

Rhinelander is a surname of German origin, derived from the Rhine River in Europe. It is commonly found in the United States, particularly among families of German-American descent. The name is believed to have been brought to America by German immigrants in the 17th and 18th centuries.

There are several notable individuals with the surname Rhinelander, including Leonard Rhinelander, an American heir and businessman who made headlines in 1929 for marrying Josie Wells, a black woman. The marriage was met with opposition from Rhinelander's family and society due to her racial background. The couple's divorce proceedings were highly publicized and exposed the racial prejudices of the time.

Another notable individual with the surname is Gertrude Rhinelander Bishop, an American philanthropist and art collector who was a prominent figure in New York City's art and social scenes in the early 20th century.

In addition to individuals, the name Rhinelander is also associated with a historic house in New York City's Upper East Side. The Rhinelander Mansion, built in 1907, is a Beaux-Arts style townhouse that was once the residence of Leonard Rhinelander and his family. The house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is considered one of the finest examples of early 20th-century architecture in the city.

Throughout history, the name Rhinelander has been associated with wealth, privilege, and social standing. The surname has also been the subject of controversy and publicity due to the actions of notable individuals with the name.