Historic Zeeland Record building earns national recognition as Midwest Construction headquarters

What happened: Midwest Construction Group’s new headquarters, located in the historic Zeeland Record Co. building at 16 S. Elm St., is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Why it’s important: The designation recognizes the downtown building’s central role in Zeeland’s cultural and economic history.

What’s the history: Constructed in 1925, the building operated for decades as a hub for local, regional, and national news. Under publisher Adrian Van Koevering, the Zeeland Record Co. expanded rapidly in the 1920s, producing both community newspapers and high-circulation specialty publications.

What is its historical significance: The building’s design reflects the practical demands of early printing operations, with front offices for customer transactions and a large, column-free production space filled with natural light to support heavy printing equipment. Several artifacts from that era — including a 1906 printing press and a 1940 paper shear — remain on site, a tangible link to the building’s original function.

How it was done: Midwest Construction Group acquired and rehabilitated the property with a focus on preservation and adaptive reuse, maintaining the building’s historic character while creating a modern, functional workspace. The company led the nomination process through the National Park Service, providing a roadmap for other organizations seeking to protect and repurpose historic structures.

What they’re saying: “This designation is more than an honor; it reinforces our commitment to respecting the history and craftsmanship of the places we work in,” says Brian VanBeveren of Midwest Construction Group. “Having our headquarters listed on the National Register of Historic Places strengthens our ability to support clients who own, steward, or rehabilitate historic properties. We’ve walked through the process ourselves, and we understand firsthand what thoughtful preservation and adaptive reuse require.”

Photos courtesy of Midwest Construction Group