Charles Renslow
CEO, Renslow Family Enterprises
Chicago, Ill.

Charles Renslow is the leather community’s most well-known leader and has been active in the community for more than 50 years. In 1958, he and lover Dom Orejudos (Etienne) opened their legendary Gold Coast Leather Bar. Other businesses have included GayLife Newspaper, Man’s Country baths, and several other bars including Center Stage, Bistro Too, and the Chicago Eagle. In 1979, they founded Mr. International Leather, which now attracts more than 10,000 attendees each year. Following Dom’s death, Charles co-founded with TonyDeBlase the Leather Archives and Museum in 1991, and currently serves as its president. He is a charter member of the City of Chicago Gay and Lesbian Hall of Fame, and the recipient of many awards, including Pantheon of Leather Lifetime Achievement and Forebearer Awards, Gay Chicago Magazine’s Hall of Fame and Humanitarian Awards, and the Centurion Leatherman of the Century 2000 Award. He is a past District Deputy Grand Master of Free and Accepted Masons.

Last Updated: 9-20-07

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