Events and Special Exhibits
The Zeeland Historical Society is proud to offer a variety of events to engage all ages!
A THREE-PART DOCUMENTARY SERIES
THURSDAYS, AUGUST 13, 20 & 27
7-9 PM
Winants Auditorium, Graves Hall
Hope College Campus
263 College Ave. | Holland
Explore the global story of Dutch immigration through this engaging multi-part documentary series by Dutch filmmaker Femke Veltman. Travel from the Netherlands to communities across North and South America as the films share the experiences, challenges, and lasting impact of Dutch migrants who built new lives abroad. Featuring interviews with local historian Robert Swierenga and entrepreneur Hank Meijer, along with footage filmed in Holland, Michigan, the series offers a unique look at Dutch heritage around the world. Different installments of the documentary will be shown from 7 to 9 pm on August 13, 20, and 27 in Graves Hall on the Hope College campus. Guests are encouraged to attend all three evenings to experience the complete story, but each showing can also be enjoyed on its own. English subtitles will be available for all Dutch and Spanish-language portions of the films. Join us for an evening of history, storytelling, and global connections!
FREE ADMISSION
Please register in advance at this link: https://wl.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E249590&id=172
Explore stories of belonging, citizenship, and identity through two connected exhibits.
CELEBRATING AMERICA250MI
Presented through a collaboration between the Zeeland Historical Society and the Holland Museum, with generous support from America250MI, We the People invites visitors to explore what it means to belong in America through stories of citizenship, identity, and civic participation.
Through personal stories, historic objects, and interactive experiences, the exhibits encourage reflection on how every generation has contributed to the American story and continues to help shape Michigan today.
Dekker Huis Museum – Open February 4 – December 2026
We the People: Roots of Belonging explores how ideas of citizenship, identity, and belonging have helped shape West Michigan. Discover stories of Native Americans and Dutch immigrants through items such as citizenship papers, historic objects, campaign materials, and more.
Holland Museum – Open February 13 – December 2026
We the People: Voices of Holland highlights personal stories from residents past and present, showing how individuals and families have experienced belonging and identity in different ways. Through objects, oral histories, and interactive elements, the exhibit centers on real voices and lived experiences.
