Graafschap Heritage Center at Graafschap CRC

5973 Church St
Holland, MI 49423
Located in one of Holland's historic churches, this historical center displays recount this area's history from the immigration through prosperity. The themes include: Reasons for Emigration: Political, religious and economic. The journey on board the Antoinette Maria from Rotterdam (April 4, 1847) to New York (May 23,1847) arriving in the Colony on June 20, 1847. Establishing a new community in the wilderness, building log homes, overcoming extreme hardships and death. The village built around the church included stores, post office, blacksmith shop, lumberyard and creamery. The "Kolonie": Pioneer farmers settled neighboring villages, the church family grew, with a vision for education, and sons defended our freedom. In 1857 a new denomination was born, nine daughter churches and a sister church began through Graafschap Church. The great leaders were Rev. A. C. Van Raalte, Rev. D. J. Vander Werp, and Senator J. W. Garvelink.