Henry J. Ryskamp (1893-1976) | Heritage Hall, Hekman Library

Henry J. Ryskamp was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on November 3, 1893.  He graduated from the Calvin Preparatory School in 1910 and went on to attend the College from 1910-1912 and 1914-1915.

After transferring to the University of Michigan, he was granted an AB degree in 1916, an MA degree in 1917, and the PhD in 1930.  The title of his doctoral dissertation was The Dutch in Western Michigan.

Except for two years when he was an instructor in history at the University (1920-1921), and in sociology (1924-1925), Dr. Ryskamp served on the faculty and administration at Calvin College continuously from 1918 until his retirement in 1964.

Although deeply involved in his teaching and administrative work, he gave generously of his time and counsel to students, to colleagues, to church, and to numerous community agencies such as being associate editor of the Young Calvinist magazine for many years.

He was married Flora De Graaf in 1923.  At the time of his death in 1976, she and their three sons survived him.