The Town of Rainelle, WV, has a rich history that dates back to the 1750s when the area was settled by Stephen Sewell. Originally named Raine in honor of the Raine family, the community was eventually named Rainelle in 1909. The town's development was shaped by the presence of the Meadow River Lumber Company, founded by Thomas W. Raine and his brother John in 1906. The company operated for 60 years and was, at one point, the largest hardwood sawmill in the world. In 1970, the company was sold to Georgia-Pacific Corporation, and the sawmill was torn down in 1975. This history of industry and community development has left a lasting impact on the town of Rainelle.