Steketee, George C. (1835-1920) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library
Name: Steketee, George C. (1835-1920)
Historical Note: George G. Steketee was born in the town of Borssele in the Netherlands' province of Zeeland on December 12, 1835. Steketee went on to become the first Dutch-born mayor of Grand Rapids, Michigan. His term was in 1881. Steketee served as a republican mayor and experienced controversy when he tried to enforce Sunday "blue laws." He also manufactured nostrums and tonics which were bought and sold throughout the Midwest. Steketee died on October 20, 1920 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.