North Berrien Historical Museum
The North Berrien Historical Society invites you to explore Southwest Michigan history at our museum! Located in Coloma on Red Arrow Highway, near I-94 and I-196, the museum displays 10,000 years of human history, from archaeology to modern technology. General Admission is free. The North Berrien Historical Museum also hosts public programs and events for all ages throughout the year. The main gallery features Native Americans, lake resorts, rural schools, Lake Michigan shipwrecks, daily life, and local businesses including the Watervliet Paper Mill. The Nichols-Beverly Barn holds lumbering tools, farm equipment and transportation displays. Highlights include a 1934 Parrett Tractor, a 1924 Dodge, and a fruit grading machine, all used by local fruit farmers. Our Print Shop contains the original newspaper linotype and other printing artifacts from the Watervliet Record. The Carter House (c.1860) tells the story of the museum property and holds events throughout the year. Temporary and traveling exhibits also feature a range of topics in local and national history. Educational programs compliment our exhibits with engaging and interactive lessons about history. Popular children’s programs include Spring Break activity day, Summer Time Travelers, and holiday-themed crafts. Our Traveling Trunks, Illustrated Presentations, and Walking Tours are adaptable for all ages. Group tours of the museum are always welcome! The museum also hosts regular monthly speakers on a variety of historical topics. Additional special events include exhibit openings, area cemetery tours, and the festive North Berrien Holiday Open House.
