Van Eyck, William O. (1869-1934). Papers, 1922, 1934, 1950.

Collection

Identifier: H88-0169

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

Biographical information, and a typescript copy of the Union of 1850, a collection of papers by the late William O. Van Eyck, Esq. on the Union of the Classis of Holland with the Reformed Church in America, in June, 1850 (published copy available in Heritage Collection).

Dates

1922
1934
1950

Creator

Van Eyck, William O. (Person)

Biography

Born to Hendrik and Hilligje (Hillegje) Van Eyck of Groningen, Michigan, on September 6, 1869. He graduated from Hope College in 1893 and University of Michigan law school. He practiced law in Holland under Arend Visscher and later formed a partnership with Fred T. Miles, but his law career was second to his life in politics. His public servant offices included the Holland City Clerk (1897 1909), first ward alderman (1909-1911), Ottawa County Superintendent of the Poor (1911-1916), Postmaster of Holland (1916 1924), and Ottawa County supervisor (1932-1934).

Known as a solitary man who never married, he spent many years working closely with Gerrit Van Schelven to co-interview many early pioneers from 1898-1934. Van Eyck was also a frequent contributor to the the Holland City News, with local history topics such as relations between the Ottawa (Odawa) Indians (Native Americans) and Dutch immigrants, sheriffship in Ottawa County; early shipping, local shipwrecks and harbor development, and the first brick home.

Van Eyck passed away after a lengthy illness and surgery on January 24, 1934, in Holland Hospital.

Extent

0.25 Linear Feet

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

Son of early immigrant to Groningen, Hendrik Van Eyck; lawyer by profession; Holland City Clerk (1897 1909); first ward alderman (1909-1911); Ottawa County Superintendent of the Poor (1911-1916); Postmaster of Holland (1916 1924); and Ottawa County supervisor (1932-1934). Collection includes a typescript copy of the second volume of Landmarks of the Reformed Fathers (published copy available in Heritage Collection).