Dutch pastor and author.

Served in Dutch infantry. Studied at Groningen University and a Baptist seminary. Mennonite pastor at Leyden (1776). Published books and pamphlets in support the Patriot movement’s attempts to restrain the power of the Stadtholder and the House of Orange.

His political activities involved him first in a lawsuit and then in a military struggle. Banished (1787); immigrated to New York. Settled at Esopus (Kingston), where he devoted himself to agriculture and natural history. Friend of John Adams.

Son of John and Anna Catharina (Leydekker) van der Kemp of Kampen, Overyssel, in the Netherlands. Married Reinira Engelberta Johanna Vos (1782); three children.