H. NEYENESCH

Among the Hollanders who came to Pella in the year 1855, few if any took a more
prominent part or proved of greater value in the work of building up this
community, than did H. Neyenesch. He was born in the Netherlands on the 25th day
of October, 1823. He enjoyed excellent educational advantages in his youth and
for some years was an instructor in his native country. He was one of the first
teachers Pella had and filled an important place in the educational life of the
community. He taught here for some fifteen years, part of the time in Central
University and also in the public schools. In 1870 he became the editor of the
Weekblad and later added the Pella Blade, published in the English language. For
a time he also published a religious paper known as the Christian Herald. He
continued in the publishing business for about thirty-one years and his papers
did much to encourage the development of the community.

He was intimately identified with public affairs and held the position of city
recorder for eleven years and was elected as mayor in 1874. He held this office
for five terms and was justice of the peace for eleven years.

KOENRAD VAN ZEE

And wife came to America with the first Hollanders in 1847. He purchased a farm
in 1850 where he remained until his death. He was united in marriage to Miss
Mattie de Kock in 1837. He followed farm life and was considered one of the most
successful farmers in this vicinity. He held many offices of trust and honor in
the community during his life and he had a great part in the making of it.

KOENRAD VAN ZEE

JOHN VAN DER LEY

Was a brother of Mrs. C. Rhynsburger. He volunteered for the defense of his
country in the Civil war. Died in 1920.

JOHN VAN DER LEY