March 16, 1847

Governor Greenly signed a bill moving the state capital from Detroit to Lansing Township.

When Michigan finally entered the Union in 1837, it was determined that within ten years a new state capital needed to be chosen. There was great competition for the site. Many legislators wanted to move the capital from Detroit because of frightening memories of the British invasion and occupation of Michigan’s biggest city in the War of 1812. After much debate, a site in Ingham County’s Lansing Township was selected.

Thank you Michigan Start Pages for this glimpse into our past.  See more here.