Development of the Old Town Area (then called Lower town) began with the building of John Burchard's cabin in 1843. Soon after, small wooden frame stores appeared along Grand River Avenue (Franklin Street), along with several grist mills, small foundaries and a woolen mill. Several major fires (in 1866, 1871, and 1879) destroyed all the structures except the most sturdy brick buildings. The buildings that remain are referred to as Old Town.

The Old Town area has undergone two renaissances. In the 1970's, artists moved in and the historic district was developed. Then again starting in 1994 with the Creative Forum which lead to the establishment of the Old Town Commercial Association (OTCA) and Old Town Main Street. Together with several other partners, such as the Old Town Business and Art Development Association (OTBADA), the North Lansing Community Association, Franklin Street Community Housing Corporation and the Turner-Dodge House, Old Town has become a thriving environment of art, festivals and business dedicated to the revitalization of this historic district.