Rhiannon Cizon, Executive Director for the Berrien County Historical Association (BCHA)

Rhiannon grew up in Highland, IN. She graduated from Ball State and got her master’s degree from Valparaiso. 

Rhiannon has served as Director of the BHCA for the past five years. She informed us that BHCA is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization, operating under the direction of the County. Its mission is “to collect and preserve artifacts related to Berrien County history through exhibits, publications, research activities, educational opportunities, and community outreach programs.” It is located in the “History Center at Courthouse Square,” the site of the oldest County Courthouse in Michigan, in Berrien Springs. They will be celebrating 50 years since it opened to the public. The current staff includes Rhiannon and a curator, John Moga. There is also an assistant and a board made up of volunteers. 

The BHCA has been in existence for 58 years. There are eight buildings at Courthouse Square, all of which are open to the public. Since 2019, extensive renovations have been undertaken on the buildings and archives. 

The museum complex is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $5. Memberships start at $20 and include free admission, discounts on events, and a newsletter for members. There are also many volunteer opportunities. In 2025, several events with historical themes are scheduled, including the monthly “Drink with History” programs, which feature food, drink, and historical presentations. The annual “Pickle Festival” is their biggest event. 

For more information, please visit the website at berrienhistory.org or email them at [email protected]. To volunteer or to donate, contact John Moga at [email protected]. Or call 269-471-1202