The Holland Museum is a dynamic organization working in a reciprocal relationship with the community of Holland in West Michigan. Telling the stories of Holland through exhibits and programs, the Holland Museum connects people with the community’s past, and encourages them to share those stories in their own lives.
The Holland Historical Trust, dba the Holland Museum began in 1937 as the Netherlands Museum. It was housed for 53 years in a residential structure that at one time had been the hospital. In December 1992, the museum was renamed the Holland Museum and moved into the landmark 1914 federal post office building which retains much of its historic character.
Three additional facilities complete the Holland Museum, the Cappon House, home of Holland’s first Mayor, along with a barn on the property, the 1867 Settlers House located several doors down, and the 1924 Holland Armory building, purchased with a gift from the daughter of the Armory’s founder, Col. Henry Geerds. In addition, the Smithsonian Spark!Lab is a permanent exhibit that allows children and families to create, collaborate, explore, test, experiment and problem-solve thorough traditional STEM activities complemented with art, history, and creativity.
The Holland Museum is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). The annual budget is in the $850,000 range, there is a staff of 11 FTE, and visitors total about 8,500 annually.