The area, now known as Grafton, is one of the oldest in Ozaukee County. In 1838, Timothy Wooden purchased approximately 145 acres of land, which would become the business district of Grafton.

By 1841, development was underway with the area comprised of mainly settlers of German descent. The Village was incorporated in 1896. During the next century, Grafton grew from a predominantly lumber oriented industry base to a community of many occupations.

Today, Grafton has become a community of varied industries, including: fabricated metal and plastic products, machinery, printing and publishing, electric and electronic equipment and miscellaneous manufacturing concerns.

The Village of Grafton is located in the heart of Ozaukee County approximately 20 miles north of Milwaukee and has an estimated 2006 population of 11,380. The Village is serviced by Interstate Highway 43, located approximately 1/3 mile to the east, by Wisconsin State Trunk Highway 60, and by County Trunk Highways O and V.