Staff

The Mason County Historical Society is powered by a dedicated team of museum professionals who care for our collections, preserve our heritage sites, and create meaningful experiences that connect people to the past.

MEET THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Rebecca Berringer serves as the Executive Director of the Mason County Historical Society, where she leads the organization’s mission to preserve and share the rich history of Mason County. Since joining the Society, she has played a key role in expanding its reach, strengthening community connections, and enhancing the visitor experience across its three locations: Historic White Pine Village, the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum, and the Mason County Research Center.

Rebecca’s professional journey is rooted in both service and hospitality. She attended Mott Community College, where she studied nursing, before discovering her passion for cultural travel experiences. Her career began in Yellowstone National Park, where she worked as a family reunion and wedding coordinator and led guided horseback rides; experiences that shaped her understanding of how memorable, place-based experiences can leave a lasting impression. She continued her work in tourism-focused communities, including Mount Rushmore National Memorial, South Dakota, and Wheelersburg, Ohio, before ultimately making her way to Ludington, Michigan.

Rebecca joined the Mason County Historical Society in 2014 as an administrative assistant and, through her dedication and leadership, was promoted to managing director and later executive director. Under her leadership, the organization has experienced significant growth, including the development of a new downtown welcome center, expanded year-round programming, and increased visitation. She has also championed initiatives to make exhibits more interactive and engaging, helping visitors connect more deeply with the stories of Mason County’s past.

Beyond her role at the Historical Society, Rebecca is actively engaged in regional and statewide organizations that support tourism and history. She has served two terms on the board of directors for Circle Michigan and currently serves on the boards of the Ludington & Scottville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau and the Association for Great Lakes Maritime History. Her involvement in these organizations reflects her commitment to strengthening cultural tourism and preserving Great Lakes heritage.

Deeply committed to the community, Rebecca believes that preserving local history is essential to understanding who we are and where we are going. She is passionate about ensuring that the stories of the people who built Mason County continue to be shared in meaningful and impactful ways. Through her work, she strives to create experiences that not only educate but inspire others to value and preserve their own histories.

231-843-4808

rebecca@mchshistory.org

MCHS relies on 50 dedicated volunteers who contribute thousands of hours each year to interpretation, preservation, events, and more.