Our History

History

Rhinelander was born in the boom days of logging. Settled in 1880, at the confluence of the Wisconsin and Pelican rivers, it was first called Pelican Rapids. It was granted a charter two years later and named after F.W. Rhinelander of New York. Rhinelander was president of the Milwaukee, Lake Shore and Western Railroad. Grateful residents renamed their community in his honor after the railroad agreed to come to town.

The Rhinelander Area is famous for its connection with the logging industry and the lumber boom of the 19th century. Located in premier area for timber, Rhinelander was one of the most important logging centers in the Northwoods. The community has evolved to embrace a number of thriving business sectors, including medical, paper-making, packaging, defense contractors, and national research facilities. Pioneer Park Historical Complex The free admission and must-see Pioneer Park Historical Complex includes: Logging Museum, Antique Saw Mill, CCC Barracks, One Room Schoolhouse, Fire Museum, Restored Soo Line Depot, and Antique Outboard Motor and Boating Museum.

Rhinelander City Hall City Hall was constructed in 1908 by Ashland Architect, Henry Wildhagen.

Oneida County Courthouse While the first Courthouse was built in 1887, the current Oneida County Courthouse was constructed in 1908 and features a beautiful Tiffany Glass Dome.

Rhinelander Historical Museum The little yellow house with a blue peak at 9 S. Pelham Street is a time capsule full of items from when Rhinelander was a bustling logging town. It reflects the elements of family life found in Rhinelander from around the turn of the century.

Sarocka Field Sarocka Field is a park at the epicenter of Rhinelander. It was home to the Rhinelander High School team for decades and is thought to be the first formal preseason training camp location for the Green Bay Packers, who played there in 1935.

A Community with Historical Football Ties Namesake of the College Football Heisman trophy, John Heisman, is buried in the Forest Home Cemetery. The Rhinelander/Oneida County Airport includes a display of Green Bay Packers memorabilia including, Packers jerseys, helmets, footballs, and even Super Bowl rings, from the entire length of the team’s history.