The Former Rancho (Now Apex-1) Motel, Lansing: 1950s
The Apex-1 Motel still operates, located at 15749 Old US-27 in northern Lansing.
This motel began life under a different name back in the 1950s – it was originally called the Rancho Motel (sometimes called El Rancho) and possibly could date back a little further.
There’s not much to say about the Rancho, aside that it seemed to change to the Apex-1 in 2024.
So why bring it up?
Well, why not?
Memories like this are meant to stir up some sentiment and recollections for anyone who recall or came in contact. Memories fade with time, and remembering a (hopefully) fond moment that was long forgotten, is a melancholy treat.
An old postcard from the 1950s-1960s has this description on the back: “Rancho Motel on U.S. 27, two miles north of Lansing, Michigan. Beautyrest mattresses. Sound proofed. Free TV & Telephones in all rooms. Excellent eating facilities adjacent. Phone IV 9-3771.”
Free TV and Telephones? It almost sounded futuristic.
All we have are old postcards to remember what the Apex-1 was like when it was operating under the “Rancho” name. Scroll down to the gallery to see the postcards and other images.