Brink, Leonard P. (1876-1936) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Name: Brink, Leonard P. (1876-1936)

Historical Note: Rev. Leonard Peter Brink was born in Collendoorn (now East Saugatuck), Michigan on September 10, 1876. The Brink moved to briefly moved to Chicago after his birth. Then the family moved to a farm back in Fremont, Michigan. With support from the Classis of Muskegon, Brink pursued ministry as his course of study. Brink was offered an opportunity by Home Missions to preach the gospel to the Navajos in Tohatchi, New Mexico. Brink accepted the position and he was ordained in August of 1900. A month later him and his new bride, Elizabeth Van Eeuwen left for Tohatchi, New Mexico. In 1913, the Brinks moved to California and he served the church at Hanford. During this time, his wife passed away. In 1914, Brink returned to New Mexico as a missionary in Tohatchi, then Toadlena, and lastly at Farmington. While in Farmington, assisted by J.C. Morgan, a Navajo Indian, Brink was able to translate parts of the Bible as well as hymns into the Navajo language. Brink passed away in 1936 leaving behind his wife, Grace Stevens, whom he married in 1915, and ten children.

Records or Manuscript Collections Created by Brink, Leonard P.