Klaas Kuiper (1841-1921) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Klaas Kuiper was born in the village of Dwingelo in the province of Drenthe, Netherlands on June 15, 1841. He made his confession of faith at the age of 19. In 1871, he started his studies at the Theological School in Kampen, graduating in 1876. His first charge was at Oud Loosdrect, in the province of Utrecht. He served the congregation there until 1879 and served the congregations of Ferwerd, Friesland and Garrelsweer, Groningen.

In 1891, Kuiper immigrated to the United States to serve the First Church of Grand Haven, Michigan. He went on to serve the congregations of Second Roseland, Chicago, Illinois (1896-1911) and Niekerk, Michigan (1911-1919). He retired with emeritus status in 1919.

Kuiper also wrote articles for the De Wachter and Geref. Amerikaan. He also published a volume explaining the Compendium and Catechism. He served as president of the Synod in 1894 and trustee of Calvin College as well for many years. Klaas Kuiper passed away on March 8, 1921 in Holland, Michigan. He was father of Prof. B. K. Kuiper and Rev. R. B. Kuiper.