Historical Society

Historical Programs

Spring & Summer

museum bootcamp for middle schoolers

6th-8th Gr

Does your middle schooler enjoy history or museums? This program offers a hands‑on experience that dives into the real behind-the-scenes world of museum work. Participants will explore how museums collect and care for objects, learn the process of taking in artifacts, and discover what goes into planning and building an exhibit. Register based on 2026-27 grade level. A pizza lunch will be provided. If your child(ren) cannot eat pizza, please have them bring their own lunch.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, July 15 (or when full)
  • Cost: $40r/$55nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Tue, June 23
  • Time: 10:00 AM-3:30 PM

  • Location: Dekker Huis Museum (37 E Main Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464)

world war II - on the homefront

10-13 Yr Olds

Step back into the 1940s and discover what life was like for kids and families during World War II. Through hands-on activities, crafts, and games, participants explore rationing, victory gardens, letter writing to soldiers, and the many ways everyday people supported the war effort. Campers will leave with a deeper understanding of local and national history—and how actions on the homefront made a real difference. Lunch will be provided as part of the camp, featuring a simple “ration-style” boxed lunch from Jimmy John’s. Participants with specific dietary needs are welcome to bring their own lunch instead.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, June 25 (or when full)
  • Cost: $65r/$80nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Thur, July 9 
  • Time: 10:00 AM-3:00 PM

  • Location: Dekker Huis Museum (37 E Main Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464)

civic citizenship & leadership camp

9th-12th Gr

Discover how everyday citizens shape their communities and learn what leadership looks like in action. In this hands-on camp, participants will explore local government, civic engagement, and leadership through team activities, simulations, and guest visits from local leaders. Students will develop skills in communication, collaboration, and problem-solving while gaining insight into how they can make a difference right here in Zeeland. A pizza lunch will be provided as part of the camp. Participants with specific dietary needs are welcome to bring their own lunch instead.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Fri, July 3 (or when full)
  • Cost: $60r/$75nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Date: Thur, July 16
  • Time: 9:00 AM-3:00 PM

  • Location: Dekker Huis Museum (37 E Main Ave, Zeeland, MI 49464)

settlers camp

7-10 Yr Olds

Step back in time with the Zeeland Historical Society for a fun, hands‑on experience that brings the life of early settlers to you! You’ll get to try your hand at bread baking and hand‑sewing a pillow — just like folks living in the mid‑1800s did — while learning what daily life was really like back then. Through these activities, you’ll gain a richer understanding of pioneer life and appreciate the skills, challenges, and traditions of Zeeland’s earliest residents.

  • Register Here (Online Registration Opens Mon, Jan 19 @ 10:00 AM)
  • Registration Deadline: Wed, July 15 (or when full)
  • Cost: $40r/$55nr
  • Instructors: Zeeland Historical Society Staff
  • Dates: July 27-28
  • Time: 9:30-11:30 AM

  • Location: 1881 New Groningen Schoolhouse (10537 Paw Paw Dr, Zeeland)