 BERRIEN COUNTYHISTORICAL ASSOCIATION The Berrien County Historical Association (BCHA) was established in 1967 through the initiative of seven local historical groups from around the county. Initial efforts aimed at preserving Michigan’s oldest courthouse, built in 1839. From the beginning, however, plans included establishing a county museum. The dual mission of the BCHA remains to preserve the historic structures on the 1839 Courthouse Square and to preserve and interpret all of the rich heritage of Berrien County for residents and visitors alike. The BCHA is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. The historical association maintains a strong partnership with Berrien County government. Approximately one-half of the buildings and property on the 1839 Courthouse Square is owned by BCHA, with the other half owned by Berrien County. The historical association also manages historic legal records for the county, making them available to researchers and genealogists. The BCHA receives an annual appropriation from Berrien County as a fee-for-service for managing county-owned buildings and records. In 2002, the county appropriation constituted 50% of BCHA’s operating budget. The majority of operating revenue is generated through earned income, grants and donations and memberships. |
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