Our Origins

Grafton’s story began with agriculture in the 1830s when it became a hub for providing farmers with the products and services needed to plant, grow and sell their crops. In 1938, Timothy Wooden purchased approximately 145 acres of land which would become the business district of Grafton. In 1841 a dam was built supplying power for a new flour mill, sawmill and woolen mill. The first lime kiln was built here in 1846. As an important industry at the time, Grafton soon became home to nine such kilns capable of producing lime which was used to whitewash buildings, condition soil, treat animal hides and leather, and to make plaster and mortar. Today, three lime kilns remain and can be seen at Lime Kiln Park.

With the arrival of railroads in 1870, many mills and factories were built to take advantage of easy access to a timely and efficient means of transport. In the early 1900s, Grafton became known as prominent industrial center complete with its own lumberyard, bank and fire department.

Perhaps one of Grafton’s most interesting historical facts lies in its tie to the music industry. In an effort to sell phonographic cabinets, a local chair and furniture manufacturer decided to start their own record label and produce albums. In 1917, 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. Although operations were shut down in 1932, the legacy of this pioneering record company lives on at the Paramount Plaza Walk of Fame. Located at 1304 12th Avenue, visitors can 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.

For over 175 years, Grafton continues to progress while keeping its heritage alive.