05/26/2026
Lansing Parks and Recreation recently shared this picture of the Turner-Dodge House & Heritage Center on a snowy Winter Solstice Day in 1946. You can tell when you look in the windows -- the family was still there. Frank Dodge Sr had long since passed, but Abby Dodge was there -- although she would pass away just a few months later. Her daughter Josephine Dodge McLean was raising her family inside and they were preparing for their beloved annual Christmas gathering. Their living grandson tells the story of the two pianos, playing "Silent Night," the Steinway in the Parlor & the Box Grand in the Receiving Hall. Josephine's daughter Patricia has married and moved away, but would be back for Christmas. Right about then she was carrying the next generation of the family - the Pembertons. But now, still living there, were Josephine's sons, Frank (KiKi) Dodge McLean, 18, Andrus (Andy), (21) and Roderick (Rod) 23. Kiki would later be one of the most important witnesses about the house as it was restored, telling the researchers what life was like, what colors the rooms were, about the important family traditions. And, very likely, Franklin Dodge Jr, the notorious Prohi (Prohibition) Agent (FBI), turned Michigan Liquor Control Commissioner, was there too. This was an interesting and consequential family for Lansing & for Michigan. From the Turner family to now, you can learn more by taking a tour! For more info go to https://www.facebook.com/turnerdodgehouse/about or call us @ (517) 483-4220 . Scott Pemberton Old Town Lansing 🏦
🏛️
Step back in time with us to 1946 at the Turner-Dodge House! This stunning image captures the elegance of a true Lansing treasure. While we’re unsure who took this photo or where it originated, we’d love your help—if you recognize it, tag the photographer or source in the comments!
A fine example of Classical Revival architecture, the Turner-Dodge mansion is a National Historic Registered Place. The beautifully restored home was built in 1858 by James and Marion Turner, who helped establish the Capital City. Today, the home reflects its turn-of-the-19th-century charm and is maintained by the City of Lansing Parks and Recreation Department as a Cultural Heritage Center.
💬 Tell us in the comments: what’s your favorite feature of the house?
Turner-Dodge House & Heritage Center
