A Real River Town
Nestled at the confluence of Mississippi and Illinois rivers, Grafton is a charming river town stretching for about two miles along the Illinois River. Established in 1832 by James Mason, it holds the distinction of being the oldest town in Jersey County. In its early days, Grafton boasted modest amenities, including a post office, a store, a tavern, and a few families, as recorded in 1834. However, the area had already begun to attract settlers as early as 1812, evidenced by the construction of a blockhouse at the confluence for defense.
Grafton experienced its peak population of around 10,000 in the 1850s, driven by employment opportunities in local industries such as stone quarries, boat building, and commercial fishing. The high-quality limestone from the area was used in prominent construction projects, including the Eads Bridge in St. Louis, the railroad bridge in Hannibal, and a bridge in Quincy. The Shafer’s Wharf Historic District emerged as a major commercial fishing hub along the Mississippi River during the late 1800s. Fish were kept in large natural pens until sold, then processed, salted, packed, and shipped. The Old Boatworks, situated south of Main Street, once housed facilities for painting and machining, where paddle wheelers and later PT boats were constructed. The site was also renowned for producing Frieman Skiffs from 1850 to 1920. Today, the Old Boatworks hosts numerous antique and craft stalls. Along the main street, you will find many unique shops creating an atmosphere of fun and nostalgia as visitors enjoy ice cream while they visit eclectic boutiques and enjoy the scenery.
Grafton experienced its peak population of around 10,000 in the 1850s, driven by employment opportunities in local industries such as stone quarries, boat building, and commercial fishing. The high-quality limestone from the area was used in prominent construction projects, including the Eads Bridge in St. Louis, the railroad bridge in Hannibal, and a bridge in Quincy. The Shafer’s Wharf Historic District emerged as a major commercial fishing hub along the Mississippi River during the late 1800s. Fish were kept in large natural pens until sold, then processed, salted, packed, and shipped. The Old Boatworks, situated south of Main Street, once housed facilities for painting and machining, where paddle wheelers and later PT boats were constructed. The site was also renowned for producing Frieman Skiffs from 1850 to 1920. Today, the Old Boatworks hosts numerous antique and craft stalls. Along the main street, you will find many unique shops creating an atmosphere of fun and nostalgia as visitors enjoy ice cream while they visit eclectic boutiques and enjoy the scenery.
