Walton County Heritage Association Board Members

  • Craig Reynolds - President & Caboose Director

    Craig has been a cornerstone of the Walton County Heritage Museum for years, serving as a dedicated docent with a passion for preserving the unique history of our region. Known for his deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, Craig specializes in leading our popular caboose tours, where he brings Florida’s rich railroad history to life for board members and visitors alike. His commitment to the Association ensures that every guest walks away with a deeper appreciation for the heritage that shaped DeFuniak Springs.

  • Dr. Renee Carnley - Vice President, Treasurer, 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.

  • Susan Horaist - Secretary & Social Media Director

    As a native of DeFuniak Springs with deep ancestral roots, I am honored to serve as Secretary of the Walton County Heritage Association.

    My connection to this land spans generations, tracing back to the county's first settlers and storied families including the Hamiltons, Turners, Wards, and McIntosh-Cousins.

    Growing up surrounded by the history of these pioneers has shaped my commitment to preserving our community's unique narrative. It is a privilege to safeguard our foundational stories and ensure that Walton County’s remarkable legacy continues to inspire and guide future generations.

  • 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.

  • Rose Rogers - Assistant Secretary & Committee Director

    Rose serves as a dedicated Board Member and the Nomination Committee Director for WCHA. A true native of the region, Rose was born and raised in Walton County, giving her a profound personal connection to the land and its history.

    Her deep roots are anchored in the community’s foundational history; her family lineage traces back to early settlers whose legacy is woven into the historic mills that once powered the local economy. This ancestral tie fuels her passion for the WCHA’s mission to preserve and restore buildings and landmarks of historical interest.

    Rose’s work ensures that the legacy of families like hers remains a vibrant part of the Walton County narrative for years to come.

  • 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.

  • Stephen McBroom - Board Member

    Stephen is a distinguished Honorary Board Member of WCHA, recognized for his deep commitment to preserving the history of our region. Having previously served as the Historian Director, Stephen played a vital role in interpreting and curating the diverse stories of Walton County.

    His work as Historian Director went far beyond administration; he was a guardian of local memory, overseeing the development of historical exhibits and ensuring that the cultural and social heritage of our community was accurately reflected for future generations. His collaboration with community members and scholars helped deepen the public’s understanding of the unique events and families that shaped this area.

    In recognition of his years of service and his current personal health battle, the Board has named him an Honorary Member. This title reflects the high esteem in which he is held by his colleagues and his permanent place within the WCHA family. Stephen’s legacy continues to inspire the association’s mission to protect and celebrate Walton County's history