Did you know that there is a bowling alley in one of downtown Lansing’s beautiful old churches? Or that a young Judy Garland sang at the now-defunct Strand Theater on Washington Ave.? Or that women in mourning in the Victorian era had their clothing dyed black, lavender, and grey to indicate their stage of grief? (Or that it was someone’s job to dye said clothing?) These are just a tiny sample of the fun facts I have learned while on a Historical Society of Greater Lansing (HSGL) walking tour.

Thanks to the HSGL, I’ve had the opportunity to learn about the history of the capital region and its noteworthy buildings, tour historic cemeteries and most of the downtown churches, see numerous old local postcards, and more.

Valerie Marvin, the group’s president, leads the tour. She is a gifted storyteller who can paint vivid pictures of historic events and locations using everything from pop culture references to details about the fashions of an era.

Last night I joined the group for a tour of downtown Lansing’s alleyways, something I had never really given a second thought. The surprisingly-interesting tour included not only the history of buildings past and present, but also a behind-the-scenes look at staging large events and food for thought about the way we structure our homes, streets, and garages.

My favorite part was learning that middle-income families in the 19th century often were able to afford household help because there was no minimum wage or income tax. The first task they would hire out was laundry. Two days of a woman’s week were dedicated to boiling water, bleaching, and ironing — a true misery on a hot summer day. Next they would hire out the cooking, because the average woman wore 32 lbs. of clothing, making a hot kitchen very unpleasant. These little insights into the way we once lived really immerse you in the history of our community, as do the personal stories offered up at each stop by tour participants.

The tours are free. They are supported by volunteers, HSGL memberships, and donations. I encourage you to kick in a few dollars if you are able. City walking tours are not usually free, and these are always enjoyable.

Tours have been happening throughout the summer. Upcoming tours include “Lost Lansing,” to be held Saturday, July 26, 2014, at 10:00 a.m. The tour group meets at Lansing City Hall (across the street from the Capitol).

Additional August tours include “Ladies of Lansing” and “Church & State,” when you might have the opportunity to see that bowling alley.

Watch for upcoming events on the HSGL website.

While the back of the Strand Theater was removed in 1982, the balcony was salvaged to be used as part of the roof of the current space.