Scope and Contents
The Ame Vennema Papers consist of materials from 1900-1974, the bulk of which cover from 1900-1925. Included are biographical materials, correspondence, articles and speeches by Vennema, photographs, inaugural materials and expense accounts. Also included is some correspondence of his wife (Henrietta), information on the Vennema family Bible (donated to Hope College), and the reminiscences of his father, Ame Vennema, Sr.
The most interesting part of this collection are the letters written to Edward Dimnent (1915-1925). In them, Vennema first discusses the various problems he is having with the college and later his insights on serving as president of Hope College.
Dates
- Creation: 1900 - 1974
- Creation: Majority of material found within 1900 - 1925
Creator
- Vennema, Ame (Person)
Biography
Ame Vennema was born on May 25, 1857, in Holland, Michigan, to Ame Wessels Vennema and Elisabeth Vander Haar. Vennema started his education in the area grammar school. He then attended both Hope Preparatory and College, graduating from the latter in 1879. After graduating from Hope, he went to New Brunswick Theological Seminary and graduated from there in 1882.
After graduation from NBTS, Vennema married Henrietta Le Febre in Holland. He returned east to New Paltz, New York, are started his work as a pastor. In the following years he served in a number of churches including Kalamazoo; Port Jervis, New York; and Passiac, New Jersey.
Vennema was appointed to the Council of Hope College in 1905. In 1911, he was elected president of the college by the board. His inauguration was February 19, 1913. Vennema resigned on April 24, 1918. He returned east to a pastorate in Passaic, New Jersey, and died there on April 26, 1925.
Extent
0.50 Linear Feet
Language of Materials
English
Dutch; Flemish
Abstract
Hope College class of 1879; minister of the RCA; president of Hope College, 1911-1918. Collection includes articles, biographical materials, correspondence, addresses, expense accounts, and biography. Also includes memories written by Ame W.B. Vennema Sr. (1823-1901). Correspondents include E. D. Dimnent, and his wife Henrietta. Family Bible is in the Van Wylen Library Rare Book Collection.
Provenance
Ame Vennema
Donation Note
Information Unavailable
- Status
- Completed
- Language of description
- English
- Script of description
- Latin
Repository Details
Part of the Hope College Archives and Special Collections Repository
Van Wylen Library
53 Graves Place
Holland Michigan 49423 United States
616-395-7798
archives@hope.edu
