About Us
Working together to make our community better
Alto is a small, rural community located in Kent County, Michigan, in the United States. It is part of the larger Grand Rapids metropolitan area, situated just southeast of the city. The area is known for its scenic landscapes, including farmland, wooded areas, and suburban developments. Alto is a peaceful, residential area that offers a slower-paced lifestyle, with access to the amenities of Grand Rapids nearby. The community is also close to several parks and recreational opportunities, making it a desirable location for those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. Despite its small size, Alto has a strong sense of community and a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere.
Our Story
The land in and around Alto was surveyed out in farms around 1842 by a government surveyor named Mr. McVean. David Skidmore and his wife purchased his farm from Bradford Canfield and his wife in 1856. At the time of purchase the farm’s property included 170 acres. Purchases of various tracts through the years swelled his holdings to 409 acres. In 1887, Mr. Skidmore granted the right-of-way for the railroad. It wasn’t until 1888 that the village was founded after the old “Detroit, Lansing & Northern” railroad brought its tracks to the area deciding Alto would make a desirable location for a depot. In 1890 the property purchased from the Skidmore tracts was platted and a village was born. David Skidmore’s sister, Mrs. Lucy (Daniel C.) McVean was the village’s first postmistress. It was Lucy who is credited with naming the village. She selected the name Alto, meaning altitude, because the village site was the highest point in the region.