History of Alba

Alba is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) located in Antrim County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It is situated on U.S. Highway 131 just north of Mancelona. Half of the community is in Star Township, and half is in Chestonia Township

Alba, Michigan in Antrim County began as a flag station on the Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad in 1876. The Village was platted in 1878. When the Detroit & Charlevoix Railroad entered town around 1901, it crossed the GR&I and a tower was constructed with an interlocking machine to control the crossing.  

The Alba Fire on June 13, 1893 destroyed much of the town, 21 buildings in all.