About Lansing, MI
Lansing, settled in 1825 is the state capitol of Michigan and the 5th largest city in the state. The population as of the 2010 Census counted 114,297 residents in the city and around 464,000 in the entire metro area. Located near the center of the state, the area is referred to as Mid-Michigan. This played a major role as to why Lansing was decided to be the state capitol.
During the time of the War of 1812, the state capitol was located in Detroit, which was thought to be too close to British-controlled Canada. With Detroit being the largest city in Michgan and having a significant influence over politics through big business, Lansing was designated as the capitol.
In Lansing you will find a culture rich in arts and history. Several festivals such as the Jazz Fest draw thousands every year while bars and clubs located in and around downtown host live performances on a regular basis over several genres of music. The theatre scene is also prominent in the area and is home to the award-winning symphony orchestra as well as the ballet and dance company.
Lansing played a major part in the invention and innovation of the automobile as well. Home to Ransom E. Olds, inventor of the Oldsmobile brand of automobiles, Mid-Michigan’s Lansing had numerous auto manufacturing plants from the beginning. The innovative nature of Lansing’s past has also given way to several high-tech manufacturers namely the Cadillac assembly plant which is said to have set the standard for mass production moving forward.
Education
The area is also home to well known educational institutions such as Michigan State University and the largest law school in the United States, the Thomas M. Cooley Law School. MSU, located in E. Lansing was originally founded in 1855 as the Agricultural Education facility of the state. The University currently is one of the largest in attendance but more so in land area.
Nearby Cities & Towns
East Lansing, Grand Ledge, Perry, Dewitt, Portland, Delta Charter Township, Williamstown, Mason, Eaton Rapids, Bath, Battle Creek