The Zeeland Historical Society is honored to announce a significant donation from the Hoogland family — Todd Hoogland, Julie Hoogland Taylor, Gregg Hoogland, and Jane Hoogland Jipping — along with contributions from other individuals to the Les Hoogland Fund. This generous support will fund two major projects aimed at preserving and celebrating Zeeland’s rich history and it honors the lasting legacy of both Les and his wife, Vivian Hoogland.
When Les Hoogland passed away in 2024, he left behind a legacy of leadership, service, and deep love for Zeeland. As the city’s longest-serving mayor, with 22 years in office, Les championed community growth and connection. He and his wife, Viv, together made countless contributions that have shaped both Zeeland and the greater West Michigan region.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Hoogland family and all those who contributed to the Les Hoogland Fund,” said Audrey Rojo, curator at the Zeeland Historical Society. “This donation ensures that Zeeland’s history—especially the stories of our veterans and civic leaders—will be preserved and shared for generations to come. Les and Viv’s deep love for this community continues to inspire us.”
The first project will revitalize the museum’s Veterans’ Memorial Room. The Stories of Service exhibit will showcase the sacrifices and contributions of Zeeland’s servicemen and women, as well as highlight the role of local veterans’ organizations, such as American Legion Post #33. Planned improvements include structural repairs, upgraded lighting, and enhanced displays that offer a deeper, more engaging historical experience.
The second initiative, The Les Hoogland Civic Legacy Exhibit: The Heart of Zeeland, will introduce a brand-new exhibit focusing on the city’s civic leadership. This display will honor the efforts of community leaders, city governance, police and fire departments, and other essential public services that have shaped Zeeland’s past and present. Featuring interactive elements and a fresh design, the exhibit will provide visitors with an in-depth look at the city’s civic history and the individuals who made a lasting impact.
“This project is about more than honoring the past—it’s about empowering the future,” said Director Katelyn VerMerris. “By showcasing the stories of service and leadership that built Zeeland, we hope to inspire others to carry that same spirit forward in new and meaningful ways. We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our community that is making these projects possible.”
Additional funding is needed to incorporate interactive features in the Veterans’ display, which will help visitors connect more deeply with veterans’ stories. To support this effort, you can give online at {https://secure.qgiv.com/for/leshooglandmemorialfund/ or mail contributions to the Zeeland Historical Society, PO Box 165, Zeeland, MI 49464. Please earmark your donation for the Les Hoogland Fund—every gift helps us honor those who served and enrich this meaningful exhibit for generations to come.
Renovations and exhibit installations are set to begin in the coming months, with an anticipated completion date of October 2025. The museum will stay open as much as possible during these renovations with an adapted exhibit flow as needed. The Zeeland Historical Society invites the community to stay engaged with the project’s progress and looks forward to unveiling these meaningful tributes in honor of Les and Viv Hoogland.
