This is the home of Michigan pioneers who helped develop the Capitol City and the state.  They were progressive leaders, supporters of higher education for women, abolition, liquor control, the silver standard, Saginaw mill strikers (Knights of Labor), and the development of arts and culture.

 The Turner Family
The family of Marion and James Turner came to Lansing in 1847 when it  was called Michigan, Michigan.  They  helped create the City of Lansing and were involved in the politics, economics, education, and society of the tiny community that became our State Capitol. They are representative of the courageous pioneering spirit and the economic opportunity of early Michigan. 

 
The Dodge Family
Abigail Turner married Frank L. Dodge in 1888.  By 1894, we know they lived with Grandmother Marion and their three oldest, Josephine, Frank and Wyllis, at the Turner home. 
In 1899, they purchased the house and renovated it from 1900 to 1903, by then they had five children. Frank Dodge once said, "All that goes to make better, happier and freer men and women is progress; all else is reaction."

Time Line of the Period

Ingham County History 

Overview History of the House and Families 

The Story of The Munroe Family's Arrival in Michigan 

James Little, a Freed Slave

Abby's Sister Remembers Chief Okemos

The Michigan Female College

A Self-Made Man, James Turner

Dodge Family Anti-Slavery Connection

Additional Articles and Documents:
Turner Family

Dodge Family

How We Saved Turner-Dodge House

Articles Written After the House Left the Family