Inside the Historic Ransom E. Olds Mansion: 1904-1966

How could the Lansing powers-that-be back in 1966 let this happen? I mean, c’mon...really.

1966 was the year they demolished the classic, historic mansion once owned by automobile mogul Ransom E. Olds at 720 S. Washington Avenue. The location is at the head of REO Town and there is a new apartment complex in the area.

Olds had this elaborate mansion constructed in 1904 to fit his (and his family’s) needs. One of the coolest things he had installed was a turntable in his garage. Why? That way, he could pull in at night and leave in the morning without having to back up or turn around.

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There were six bedrooms – four for family and guests and two for servants. Four bathrooms, and a music room with large piano and organ. The third floor had a ballroom for entertaining, and a side lounge for drinks and refreshments.

Ransom passed away on August 26, 1950, and his wife Metta died exactly one week later, on September 2, 1950 (Ransom was born in Lansing, Metta was born in Pinckney). Their daughter Gladys remained in the house until it was demolished.

Why was the mansion torn down?

The mansion was torn down in 1966 to make room for the planned I-496.
I wonder what Gladys’ reaction was?
She passed away in 1981 at the age of 89.

Scroll down a little ways...the gallery below includes some inside shots of the Olds mansion.

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