20-In-Person-Isaac Cappon: A Holland Rags to Riches Story
Fall or Spring Course | Registration opens 1/2/2025 6:00 AM EST
Discover the fascinating story of Dutch immigrant Isaac Cappon, who arrived in Holland, MI, in 1848, just a year after Rev. Albertus Van Raalte and his followers established a colony by the banks of Black Lake (later known as Lake Macatawa). After learning the tanning trade in Grand Rapids and Grand Haven, Cappon partnered with John Bertsch to open a successful tannery in Holland by 1857. Their venture flourished, particularly with contracts from the Union Army during the Civil War, making Cappon wealthy. In 1867, when Holland was officially incorporated, he proudly became the city’s first mayor. Tragically, in 1871, a devastating fire swept through Holland, destroying many homes and businesses, including Isaac Cappon’s. Undeterred, he and his family rebuilt, moving in 1874 into their elegant new home. This class will share the captivating stories of Isaac Cappon, his family, and their beautifully restored residence, one of two historic homes owned by the Holland Historic Trust (the Holland Museum). Experience a slice of history and learn about the legacy of one of Holland’s founding figures!
Deb Wake is the education and volunteer coordinator at the Holland Museum. Her interest is family history, and the 150th anniversary celebration of Holland’s historic Cappon House in 2024 led to her research the Cappon family. She leads tours of the Cappon House and Pilgrim Home Cemetery, where Isaac Cappon and many of his family members are buried.
Maddalena Frissora began her position as the exhibits curator at the Holland Museum in August 2023. She completed her undergraduate studies in 2020 at Hope College, double majoring in art history and Japanese language. In Spring 2023, she graduated from the Academy of Art University with an MA in art history. In 2024 she researched and developed the two exhibitions: “Authentically Victorian: Reflecting on the Cappon House Restoration” and “A Stitch in Time: Lavina Cappon’s Tulip Time Legacy.” These exhibitions were part of the museum’s 150th anniversary celebration of the Cappon House.