Paramount Records History

The Wisconsin Chair Company was originally established in the 1880’s to manufacture chairs and other home furnishings. By the end of the 19th century, they became the largest employer in Ozaukee County. In an effort to sell phonographic cabinets, the company decided to start their own record label and produce albums at their Grafton factory, formerly located near Falls Road and South Green Bay Road.

In 1917, their label, Paramount Records was created and went on to become one of the leading producers of blues records, pressing work for such greats as Louis Armstrong, Ma Rainey, Skip James and more. For the next 15 years the operations continued until the last record was made in July of 1932 and the building was demolished in 1938.

Although the structure that held Paramount Records is gone, a tribute to this ground-breaking business and the artists they made records for lives on. The Paramount Plaza Walk of Fame is located at 1304 12th Avenue. Here, you’ll learn the names of many of the Paramount artists, see a beautiful sculpture fountain and find an entertainment space where live performances can be enjoyed.