Walton County Heritage Association Board Members

  • Marie Hinson - President

    Talented singer, organist, tour guide, and church greeter. Marie is a well-known face in DeFuniak Springs, FL.

    Her family is among those forced to leave their homes during the expansion of Eglin Air Force Base in 1944. Her family moved to DeFuniak Springs and Marie grew up on Millard Gainey road named after her father, a contractor and brick mason.

    It all begins with you - each and every one of you have something to contribute. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a family story to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story can make all the difference.

  • Carolyn Brown - Vice President of Museum & Special Events Director

    As Vice President of Museum and Special Events for the Walton County Heritage Association, I am deeply committed to preserving and honoring the rich history and culture of our community. Our work ensures that future generations have meaningful access to the stories, artifacts, and traditions that shape Walton County’s unique identity. Through carefully curated exhibits and engaging programs, we promote awareness and appreciation that reinforce the strong sense of pride and unity within our community

  • Wayne Sconiers - Vice President of Genealogy

    The Walton County Heritage Association plays a vital role in preserving and sharing the rich history of our community. Through its dedication to historical exhibits, educational programs, and outreach efforts, it provides invaluable resources for genealogists and researchers. As Vice President of Genealogy, I am proud to be part of an organization that not only safeguards our heritage but also fosters a deeper understanding of the people and stories that have shaped Walton County.

  • Susan Horaist - Secretary & Social Media Director

    As someone born and raised in DeFuniak Springs, I am deeply honored to serve as the Secretary of the Walton County Heritage Association. Our rich history and close-knit community have shaped who I am, and it is a privilege to help preserve and share the stories that make Walton County unique. Together, we continue to celebrate our heritage and inspire future generations to cherish and protect our remarkable past.

  • Alexa Kempson - Treasurer

    As a proud docent and author affiliated with the Walton County Heritage Association, I find immense joy in helping to preserve and share the unique stories that shaped our community. My work, particularly through contributing to WCHA publications and assisting with events like the historic home tours, allows me to connect residents and visitors alike with the rich heritage found right here in DeFuniak Springs. I look forward to working diligently with the entire dedicated board to ensure transparent financial stewardship, safeguard our association's resources, and secure the long-term sustainability of our shared heritage for generations to come. Together, we will continue to bring our local history to life through engaging exhibits and community programs

  • Dr. Renee Carnley - Innovation & Technology Director

    At the Walton County Heritage Association, our commitment to preserving history is matched by our dedication to integrating innovative technologies. By leveraging digital archives, interactive exhibits, and virtual reality experiences, we aim to engage a wider audience and bring our rich heritage to life in meaningful, accessible ways. Our goal is to connect the past with the future, ensuring that Walton County’s stories are preserved and shared through the most advanced and effective mediums available.

  • Bruce Cosson - Historian Director

    As the Historian Director at the Walton County Heritage Association, my role is to preserve and interpret the diverse history of Walton County through careful research, collection, and curation of artifacts and documents. I oversee the development of our historical exhibits, ensuring they accurately reflect the cultural and social heritage of the region. Additionally, I collaborate with community members and scholars to promote educational programs that deepen public understanding of our local history. By safeguarding our past, I aim to foster a greater appreciation of Walton County’s unique identity and support ongoing heritage preservation efforts.

  • Stephen McBroom - Board Member

  • Rose Rogers - Board Member

  • Lisa Simmons - Docents Director

    At the Walton County Heritage Association, our docents play a vital role in connecting visitors to the rich history and culture of our region. As the Docents Director, I am committed to providing thorough training and ongoing support to ensure our volunteers are knowledgeable, confident, and passionate about sharing Walton County’s unique stories. We believe that an engaging docent experience enhances our exhibits and community programs, fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage. Whether you are new to volunteering or have years of experience, our program welcomes anyone eager to contribute to preserving and promoting our local history.

  • Taylor Tison - Board Member