Lewis Ginter | |
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| Born | April 4, 1824 New York City, U.S. |
| Died | October 2, 1897 (aged 73) Richmond, Virginia, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Tobacco business, real-estate developer, military officer, banker, philanthropist |
| Known for | Allen & Ginter, Jefferson Hotel, Ginter Park, American Tobacco Company |
Lewis Ginter (April 4, 1824 – October 2, 1897) was a prominent businessman, financier, military officer, real estate developer, and philanthropist centered in Richmond, Virginia. A native of New York City, Ginter accumulated a considerable fortune throughout his numerous business ventures and became one of Richmond's wealthiest citizens despite his exceptionally modest demeanor.[1] While the Jefferson Hotel and Ginter Park embody some of Ginter's major urban contributions to Richmond, many of his philanthropic gifts were given anonymously to charitable organizations and individuals in need.[2] Ginter served in the Confederacy, attaining the rank of major and played a major role in bringing Richmond back from the ravages of the Civil War. His continued devotion to the city is captured in his famous remark, "I am for Richmond, first and last."[3]