Biographies

J. H. WOLTERS 

As has already appeared in this history, Mr. Wolters had the
distinction of being the first merchant of Pella. Wolters & Smeenk had a small
stock of merchandise in a log house that stood where the beautiful Van Zee home
is located, just west of town on the Brand farm. Later they moved to the G.
Thomassen corner, one block west of the Square, on Washington street. "Here they
conducted one of the leading stores for several years. We have been unable to
secure any definite data as to Mr. Wolters' later activities.


A. WIGNY

In K. Van Stigt's history of Pella, Mr. Wigny is mentioned as one of the leaders
of the colonization movement. He was a member of the Executive Committee chosen
by the colonists in Holland when the movement was yet in its formative stage. He
was one of the two men who had charge of affairs on the ship, the Nagasaki. Mr.
Wigny was a man of earnest religious convictions, a faithful member of the
Reformed Church, and during the years of his residence in Pella he had the
respect and confidence of the entire community. He was called to his reward the
22nd day of December, 1869.


G. P. H. ZAHN

All the older residents of Pella will remember Mr. Zahn as a quiet, unassuming
man, yet possessed of a cultured mind and a high character. For many years he
was a Notary and engaged in the insurance business. He had his office on the
west side, on the north part of the lot now occupied by the Public Library.
During the years he lived in Pella he made his home with the P. C. Lankelma
family.