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Catalog Number
2020.9.498Title
De Kraker, Louis Jr.Description
Image of Holland MI resident Louis De Kraker Jr.'s record of service in the "Record of Service of Michigan Volunteers in the Civil War, Vol. 43" and obituary in the June 26th, 1924 edition of Holland City News, page 8.History
Louis De Kraker Jr. was born on February 10th, 1839 in the Netherlands. On October 18th, 1861, he enlisted with the 1st Michigan Mechanics and Engineers, Co. F. He served until September 22nd, 1865. After the war, he opened a meat market in Holland, MI that he ran until his retirement at age 84, when he sold the business to Isaac De Kraker and James J. De Koster. At the time, he held the state record for the longest meat market career. Louis passed on June 25th, 1924 in Holland, MI and is interred in Pilgrim Home Cemetery.The 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics was mustered on October 29th, 1861 (Companies L and M were organized in 1863. This regiment was responsible for building bridges, pontoons, boats, forts, saw mills, corduroy roads, and destroying enemy infrastructure. The regiment was often split up, following armies that needed their expertise. It contributed greatly to the Union war effort, providing much needed services in non combat roles. ;Read More