Trapping and Trading: The Fur Trade
Tools of the Blacksmith
Special Exhibits and Popular Attractions
Wisdom Seekers
COMING IN 2016 - ENDING OCT. 2017 The story of Andrews University: From Battle Creek…to Box Cars…to Berrien Springs
Andrews University has been an integral part of our community for more than one hundred years. Generations of local residents and students, as well as students from around the world, all share in its vast history. This exhibit traces the founding of the university from its early days as Battle Creek College in the 1870’s, to the big move to Berrien Springs in 1901, to the impact that Andrews University has on the community today.
The Courthouse Museum: Featured Left, The Fur Trade
Trade in pelts such as beaver, muskrat, mink and otter was Michigan's first industry. Despite popular belief, almost all the trapping was done by Indians, not Europeans. English and French Traders exchanged goods for pelts, but did little trapping themselves. Furs, especially beaver were extremely valuable in Europe for clothing and hats. A trader could easily make his fortune with a few canoe loads of furs. Come see all our museum exhibits.
Tools of the Blacksmith
Recreated on the site is a working forge to illustrate the importance of blacksmiths in small communities.
Free Public Programs
The 2017 Summer Program Series
The History Center's summer program series returns with exciting presenters! The programs are free of charge thanks to generous sponsorships from the Berrien Springs/Eau Claire Rotary Club and Indiana Michigan Power. All programs are on Thursday Evenings at 6:30 p.m. at the History Center.
Educational Programs and Services
Schedule a Program or Service Today!
Outreach programs are available for either day or evening presentations, depending on staff availability. To schedule a program for your organization, call the Berrien County Historical Association at (269) 471-1202, or email us at info@berrienhistory.org.
Program fees: Outreach programs are $60 each. Multiple programs on the same day and location are $60 for the first program and $30 for each additional program. Mileage is charged for programs presented at locations outside of Berrien County.
Gift Shop
Welcome to the History Center's New Gift Shop
The Museum Store carries a varied selection of local and regional history books, children’s books, American Girl books, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, home décor, and much more!
See more... Books for Sale ...here.
Historic Walking Tour of St. Joseph
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