Standing at the intersection of Michigan politics and American manufacturing, the Boji Tower serves as a monument to the hard-working men and women of Michigan. At the time of its construction it was the tallest building in Michigan outside of Detroit and remains the tallest in Lansing. In fact, the Lansing City Council amended an ordinance prohibiting buildings from being taller than 150 feet to accommodate its construction. The towering structure was the brainchild of automotive pioneer and philanthropist R.E. Olds. The bronze doors of the elevators are still adorned with scenes from this manufacturing giant’s life.

Called the Olds Tower by many, the building was officially known as the Capital Bank Tower and completed in 1931. The building was financed by R.E. Olds and named for the Capital National Bank which would occupy the majority of the lower floors. A 1931 Lansing State Journal write-up described the completion of the building and the bank’s success, “That the Capital National Bank has grown to its present proportions is due to its good fortune in being directed throughout its history by men to whom Lansing’s welfare has always been a matter of warm personal concern.”