In 1836 Charles Noble knew that Michigan would be seeking a central location for a new capital when it became a state.

In 1847, however, the state chose Lansing Township 12 miles (19 km) northward to be its capital due to its potential for water power.

Ingham County's first downtown courthouse was built in 1843, and was replaced in 1858, and the economy thrived in the first decades based on sawmills, carriage and cart factories, copper shops, a steam flourmill and a buffalo robe manufacturer.

In the 1800s, Mason was the center of Ingham County activity, even more than was Lansing, the state capital.

The economy thrived in the first decades based on sawmills, carriage and cart factories, copper shops, a steam flourmill and a buffalo robe manufacturer.

In the 1800s, Mason was the center of Ingham County activity, even more than was Lansing, the state capital.

As a result, Michigan is the only state in the country with a capital city that is not also a county seat.

[citation needed] Up into the early 1900s, the local Ojibwa tribe had a visible presence in the town.

In the 1900s, The Wyeth Corporation began producing baby formula in Mason, but that was discontinued in the 1990s.

Michigan Packaging Company, Gestamp Hardtech, and Ingham Intermediate School District also have facilities in the Mason area.