Lansing's Early Settlements

The following is a brief discussion of the early settlements of Lansing. If you would like an more detailed discussion please click here or the link at the bottom of the page.

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 In 1847 the City of Lansing was designated as the capital of Michigan. This, in combination with the diversification of the city's economy, contributed to the decline of the importance of the river.

Prior to this, river steamers linked three areas of development. The original one, known as "Lower Town", centered around a sawmill that was located near the present North Lansing dam. This area had its beginnings around 1846.

The second area, designated "Upper Town", began around 1847 with the construction of a bridge across the Grand River near its confluence with Red Cedar River.

Also in 1847, a third area began to develop around the newly designated State Capitol Building. This area was located between Lower and Upper towns and was known as "Middle Town".

River steamers traveled from Lower Town to Upper Town and stopped at Middle Town. Development continued around the new State Capitol Building however, and Middle Town became the central area. Therefore, the necessity for communication between the three areas ceased, as well as the steamer service and the river oriented life.

If you would like more detail on Lansing's history, please click here.