Individual Details

Immigration

His destination was Pella, Iowa, which had been founded by Rev. H. P. Scholte. He arrived at Chicago November 18, 1847, and, as the season was then far advanced, he remained in that city during the winter. Early in 1848 he started on foot with Jacob Bogards for the Dutch settlements of Michigan, spending two weeks en route. Abandoning his Pella scheme, he located in Zeeland, where he arrived on the 16th of August, 1848, accompany by his wife, son and father-in-law, the latter eighty years of age. At once after settling in Zeeland, Johannes G. Van Hees became a leader in the colony, both in political and church circles.

Occupation

He served as Supervisor of the township for twenty-two years and five months, and also served in other important positions. A man of noble powers, great ability, sound common-sense and unusual memory, he was fitted for the prominent position he occupied. He followed the other leaders of his people, Scholte, Van Raalte, C. Van Der Meulen, and others, and left the State church and his Fatherland for a free land and a free church. Prior to 1864 he was a Democrat, but afterward affiliated with the Republicans. Possessing the most scrupulous ides of honor and right, he would not tolerate the least dishonesty in others. A friend to the public School system, Mr. Van He served as a member of the School Board until 1883, when advancing years and enfeebling powers induced him to resign.

Religion

A ruling Elder in the Reformed Church, he was prominent in religious affairs, and was a generous contributor to the cause of Christianity.