The Zeeland Historical Society (ZHS) is taking an exciting step toward becoming a regionally renowned cultural heritage center.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the society will transition from a volunteer-run front desk at the Dekker Huis Museum, 37 E Main Ave., to a staffed museum desk attendant — a move made possible through the generous support of three community donors who have fully funded the first year of the position.
This change reflects the organization’s continued growth and commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences at the Dekker Huis Museum, which welcomes thousands of guests annually through exhibits, tours, and programs celebrating Zeeland’s rich history.
At the same time, ZHS will implement a new admissions policy designed to sustain high-quality exhibits and programming:
• $5 general admission
• Free for children and students 18 and under
• Free for ZHS members
• Free Third Saturdays (January – November)
“Adding a staffed front desk marks an exciting milestone in our growth and in our ability to fulfill our promises to the community,” ZHS Executive Director Katelyn VerMerris said. “This new role will ensure every visitor receives a warm welcome, enhance coordination among volunteers, and support our ability to operate a museum experience that rivals regional peers.”
The new museum desk attendant will oversee daily visitor operations, ensuring consistent service, improved accessibility, and support for volunteers — freeing them to focus on leading tours, maintaining collections, and assisting with community programs.
Applications for the museum desk attendant position are now being accepted through Nov. 14, and can be found at zeelandhistory.org.
“This is about investing in the long-term health of our organization,” ZHS board president Ken Kolk said. “Our vision is to be recognized as the primary cultural center representing the peoples and history of our region — accurately and with excellence — enriching the lives of those we serve. By strengthening our daily operations, we’re laying the foundation to expand our programs, grow our archives and exhibits, and become a must-see destination for visitors to West Michigan.”
At the same time, the Zeeland Historical Society will strengthen its volunteer program through expanded training and deeper engagement opportunities. By focusing volunteer energy on education and community programming, the organization will be able to offer more field trips, guided tours, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
ZHS invites community members to become members, donors, or volunteers to help sustain this growth. Memberships directly support exhibits, educational programs, and preservation efforts at both the Dekker Huis Museum and the Historic New Groningen Schoolhouse.
For more information or to become a member, visit zeelandhistory.org.
Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the society will transition from a volunteer-run front desk at the Dekker Huis Museum, 37 E Main Ave., to a staffed museum desk attendant — a move made possible through the generous support of three community donors who have fully funded the first year of the position.
This change reflects the organization’s continued growth and commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences at the Dekker Huis Museum, which welcomes thousands of guests annually through exhibits, tours, and programs celebrating Zeeland’s rich history.
At the same time, ZHS will implement a new admissions policy designed to sustain high-quality exhibits and programming:
• $5 general admission
• Free for children and students 18 and under
• Free for ZHS members
• Free Third Saturdays (January – November)
“Adding a staffed front desk marks an exciting milestone in our growth and in our ability to fulfill our promises to the community,” ZHS Executive Director Katelyn VerMerris said. “This new role will ensure every visitor receives a warm welcome, enhance coordination among volunteers, and support our ability to operate a museum experience that rivals regional peers.”
The new museum desk attendant will oversee daily visitor operations, ensuring consistent service, improved accessibility, and support for volunteers — freeing them to focus on leading tours, maintaining collections, and assisting with community programs.
Applications for the museum desk attendant position are now being accepted through Nov. 14, and can be found at zeelandhistory.org.
“This is about investing in the long-term health of our organization,” ZHS board president Ken Kolk said. “Our vision is to be recognized as the primary cultural center representing the peoples and history of our region — accurately and with excellence — enriching the lives of those we serve. By strengthening our daily operations, we’re laying the foundation to expand our programs, grow our archives and exhibits, and become a must-see destination for visitors to West Michigan.”
At the same time, the Zeeland Historical Society will strengthen its volunteer program through expanded training and deeper engagement opportunities. By focusing volunteer energy on education and community programming, the organization will be able to offer more field trips, guided tours, and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages.
ZHS invites community members to become members, donors, or volunteers to help sustain this growth. Memberships directly support exhibits, educational programs, and preservation efforts at both the Dekker Huis Museum and the Historic New Groningen Schoolhouse.
For more information or to become a member, visit zeelandhistory.org.
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