Life on the Lake: What a Way to Live

Imagine waking up every morning to the sight of beautiful Lake Lansing, the clear blue water against the bright sunshine. Living right on the lake is a dream for many and Lake Lansing has always drawn people in, right from the early days.

The Early Days

Lake Lansing was first called Pine Lake and was used as grounds for fishing and hunting by the first people in the area, the Indian tribes. With plenty of fish in the lake and wild game in the nearby woods, it was a prime spot to build camps.

The first white settlers to the area were two brothers who were doctors. They purchased 160 acres on the south side of the lake. Over the next several decades other settlers made Pine Lake and the surrounding area their homes.

The 1800s

During the 1800s, the lake became a popular place for recreation. A group of Spiritualists created a camp for the summer that would bring in thousands of people. An auditorium was built that could hold 2000 people. There were many other buildings, including a hotel, dining hall, and Medium House. The camp lost its appeal in the early 1900s. This was when the area transitioned into a fashionable place to reside during the summer months.

The Pine Lake House was built during the 1870s and held a dance hall and other buildings. People would take rides on the lake on steamer boats. The house burned in 1929 and was replaced by a building known as the Dells Ballroom where bands played. The Dells Ballroom was used until 1986 when condos replaced it.

Another popular place on Pine Lake was the Izzer Club, a social club for gentlemen.

The 1900s and Today

Frank Johnson, a local printer, built up land on Hickory Island, a spot that had been platted in 1908. He lived on the island and created Lake Drive. He was also responsible for Sunset Cove, North End Plat, Indian Island, and the Perry Road Addition. He was also the one responsible for the name change to Lake Lansing in 1927.

The lake lost its appeal and became uncared for by the 1960s. It was in the next decade that Lake Lansing saw a revival as the area was cleaned up to attract visitors. Parks were created and today hundreds of thousands of visitors spend time there, many of whom live in Lansing. Today it is once again a wonderful place to live for those who dream of enjoying the Lake year round.

If you want to check out some properties around Lake Lansing, contact me to get started. I can help you achieve your dream of living on the lake all year long.