Students recreate an actual counterfeiting case tried in the 1839 Courthouse in the 1840s. Students play all the roles, including judge, jury, attorneys, sheriff and defendant. The actual verdict in the case is not revealed to students prior to the mock trial, so it is up to members of the jury to acquit or to find their classmate guilty. Special school tour rates are available. Classroom programs include living-history presentations.
Teachers can invite a Civil War soldier or French voyageur to speak to their class.
Students are even invited to ask questions of their historic visitor. The BCHA staff is also available for programs for historical groups, service clubs and other organizations. Programs offered include the living-history presentations mentioned above. Lecture programs include an introduction to the 1839 Courthouse Museum, museum-quality preservation at historic sites, the care of historical collections, railroads in Berrien County, and the leisure revolution in America. Information on current programs can be obtained by contacting the museum.