Southeast of Worcester, Grafton is a historic town in Massachusetts’ Blackstone Valley, known for its rich industrial past and scenic beauty. Grafton is composed of a collection of historic mill villages and has a deep connection to the Industrial Revolution, which saw the town flourish through trades like shoemaking, furniture production, and clockmaking. This blend of history and charm makes Grafton a notable destination for those interested in exploring New England’s past and present.
Willard House & Clock Museum
One of Grafton’s key attractions is the Willard House & Clock Museum, located in North Grafton. This site is recognized as the birthplace of early American clockmaking, where the Willard brothers—Benjamin, Simon, Ephraim, and Aaron—began crafting clocks in the late 18th century. Simon Willard, the most successful of the brothers, gained fame for his invention of the banjo clock, patented in 1802, which became America’s first commercially successful wall clock. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the world of early American craftsmanship, featuring the only remaining 18th-century clockmaker’s workshop in the United States, along with galleries filled with intricate Willard timepieces, family artifacts, and even a patent signed by Thomas Jefferson.
Grafton Common
Grafton Common, the historic heart of the town, still retains the outline set by early settlers in the 1720s. This quintessential New England green space, surrounded by stately old trees, is lined with significant landmarks such as the Congregational Church (1833), Grafton Inn (1806), Unitarian Church (1863), and the Georgian Revival-style Grafton Public Library (1927). The granite posts marking the common’s boundaries date back to 1845, adding to its historic charm. The restored bandstand here was once featured in the MGM movie Ah, Wilderness! and now hosts the town’s summer concert series from mid-June to August.
Grafton Historical Society Museum
Housed in the former South Grafton Library building, originally a schoolhouse from the 1920s, the Grafton Historical Society Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the town’s rich history. The museum’s exhibits highlight Grafton’s industrial past, with dioramas of old mills and artifacts like shoes and furniture produced in local factories. Additionally, the museum showcases a variety of historical items, including elegant ladies’ clothing, farming tools, china, military uniforms, and diaries from the Civil War era, providing a comprehensive overview of Grafton’s development over the last 300 years.
Silver Lake Beach
For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Silver Lake Beach, located in the southeast part of Grafton, is a popular destination. Open from mid-June to mid-August, this picturesque lake offers a sandy beach with a lifeguarded swimming area, changing facilities, a concession stand, picnic tables, and grills. Visitors can rent kayaks for a relaxing paddle around the lake. Both residents and non-residents are welcome, though non-residents must purchase a season membership to access the beach.
Grafton Inn
The Grafton Inn, an enduring landmark on the east side of Grafton Common, has been welcoming guests since 1806. This historic inn features a Federal-style design, inspired by architect Charles Bulfinch, with later Italianate additions. The inn continues to serve its original purpose, offering seven rooms for overnight stays and a restaurant known for its hearty pub fare, craft beers, and local wines. The Grafton Inn’s charming architecture and cozy atmosphere make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors.
Highfields Golf & Country Club
Golf enthusiasts visiting Grafton will find the Highfields Golf & Country Club a top-notch facility. Established in 2002 on land that was once the Magill dairy farm, this public golf course spans 220 acres and offers a challenging yet accessible layout for players of all skill levels. The course features rolling hills, beautiful views of the Blackstone Valley, and a mix of open terrain, wetlands, and mature woodlands. After a round, players can unwind at J & J Tavern, which overlooks the 18th green and serves a variety of pub-style dishes.
Lake Ripple Dam
Located just north of Grafton Common along Worcester Street, Lake Ripple is a serene 70-acre body of water formed by the Lake Ripple Dam on the Quinsigamond River, constructed in 1982. The lake’s picturesque setting makes it a popular spot for canoeing and kayaking, with a public launch available at Ekblaw Landing. The area is rich in birdlife, especially in summer, and features picnic areas and access to Grafton Land Trust trails. Anglers can enjoy fishing for species like chain pickerel, largemouth bass, and carp.
Pecorino
Grafton is home to several unique local businesses, and Pecorino stands out as a European-style cheese shop that offers an array of gourmet delights. Shoppers can find a wide selection of local and imported cheeses, along with specialty foods like charcuterie, fresh bread, olive oil, jams, and artisanal European candies. Pecorino also features a boutique wine selection, with bottles from small, sustainable producers, as well as a variety of craft beers, making it a haven for food and drink enthusiasts.
Swirls & Scoops
For a sweet treat, Swirls & Scoops is a seasonal ice cream stand that has become a beloved spot in Grafton. Open from April through September, this ice cream stand offers nearly 50 flavors of hard ice cream, along with Flavorburst soft serve, sundaes, dairy-free Dole Whip, frappes, and frozen lemonade. Popular flavors include maple walnut, s’mores, black raspberry, and choc peanut butter, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Hassanamesit Woods
Nature lovers can explore Hassanamesit Woods, a tranquil area covering over 220 acres in South Grafton. Managed by the town’s Conservation and Historical Commissions, this natural area features a looping trail with downloadable guides that provide insights into both the natural environment and the area’s human history. Visitors can discover remnants of past settlements, including stone walls, drill-marked granite boulders, and old cart paths. The woods offer a peaceful retreat into nature and a chance to learn about Grafton’s historical landscape.
Grafton’s blend of historic charm, natural beauty, and local flavor make it a compelling destination for visitors. Whether you’re interested in its industrial past, enjoying the outdoors, or exploring local shops and eateries, Grafton has something to offer everyone.
FAQs:
What is Grafton known for historically?
Grafton is historically known for its role in the Industrial Revolution, with significant contributions to trades like shoemaking, furniture production, and clockmaking.
What is the Willard House & Clock Museum?
The Willard House & Clock Museum is a historic site in Grafton, showcasing the birthplace of early American clockmaking and housing the only remaining 18th-century clockmaker’s workshop in the U.S.
Where can you enjoy outdoor activities in Grafton?
Grafton offers several outdoor activities, including swimming and kayaking at Silver Lake Beach, golfing at Highfields Golf & Country Club, and hiking in Hassanamesit Woods.