Live Speaker Series at the Pump House Museum

Doors open at 6 PM, the programs begin at 7 PM. Admission is FREE!

Programs begin July 1 and continue through August 26, with presentations on local history, environmental stewardship, Native American history, humanitarian rescue efforts during World War II, and the local connection to Pope Leo XIV.

07/01/2026

Wally Ewing – presenting his new book, “Trees”. In the book, four local authors — Larry Romanelli, William Martinus, Wallace Ewing, and Lawrence Burns — explore the history, significance, and enduring relationship between trees and human communities around the Grand Haven area. Dr. Ewing’s presentation examines the intersection of environmental history, storytelling, and sustainability.

07/15/2026

Deborah Schakel – presents a program on Lida Rogers, the Influential educator and civic leader credited with inspiring the modern Tulip Time Festival. Deb Schakel will discuss Lida Rogers’ contributions to Holland’s beauty and environmental stewardship, including her work planting Keppel Forest with the assistance of students over a 20- year teaching career.

07/29/2026

Rick Bosch – a member of the Hope Academy of Senior Professionals (HASP), presents on the history of the Ottawa Indians in the Holland area, placing special emphasis on Chief Joseph Waukazoo, the Reverend George Smith, and the Old Wing Mission.

08/12/2026

Deborah Schakel – presents on American socialite and humanitarian Mary Jayne Gold. After spending summers in Waukazoo Woods, Gold moved to Europe during the 1930s and later became involved with the Emergency Rescue Committee in Marseille, France, helping refugees escape Nazi-occupied Europe during World War II.

08/26/2025

Elizabeth McEwen – executive director of the Felt Mansion between Saugatuck and Macatawa Park. She presents about the property’s connection to St. Augustine Seminary High School, where the future Pope Leo XIV graduated in 1973. She will also discuss plans for the site to become part of a future pilgrimage honoring the first American pope.

Visit the Pump House Museum to explore “Famous Faces – Local Places”, an exhibit celebrating the people and stories
that shaped Historic Ottawa Beach.