 Founded in 1911 by William B. Eerdmans (1882–1966) and still independently owned with William's daughter-in-law Anita Eerdmans as president, Eerdmans has long been known for publishing a wide range of Christian and religious books, from academic works in Christian theology, biblical studies, religious history, and reference to popular titles in spirituality, social and cultural criticism, and literature.William Bernard Eerdmans (November 4, 1882, Bolsward – April 1966, Grand Rapids, Michigan) was a Dutch American publisher known for the William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.Eerdmans was born "Wiltje Eerdmans", the son of Dirkje Pars and the textile manufacturer Bernardus Dirk Eerdmans.