“Unless we remember we cannot understand.”
-E. M. Forster
Grafton, Utah was settled in 1859-1862. Near Zion National Park, it is absolutely gorgeous! During their brief history they endured many hardships. The Black Hawk Indian War caused the town to be temporarily evacuated. On the banks of the Virgin River, they were prone to severe flooding. Numerous tragedies and illnesses struck one year known as The Hard Year of 1866. The town was mostly abandoned by 1921. Grafton has been featured in several movies, including 1969’s Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. For more detailed info and historic pictures check out The Grafton Heritage Partnership Project.
The Historic Rockville Bridge
To get to Grafton you drive through the town of Rockville and across this historic single lane bridge. It was built in 1924 and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Before the Zion Mount Carmel highway was finished, this was the route from the Grand Canyon to Zion National Park.
This is the only Parker Through Truss type of bridge left in Utah.
Grafton
A dirt road leads you to the hauntingly beautiful ghost town. With green pastures, rustic wood fences, and old buildings, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time. You can almost hear the children running and laughing. You can easily imagine the men working outside. The history as well as the landscape make this place feel extremely sacred.
The Grafton Cemetery
1862-1924
This cemetery is the resting place of 74-84 Mormon Pioneers and Southern Paiutes. The headstones vary greatly in material and design. They are all incredible.
There is a short hiking trail that starts at the cemetery. It has some of the most stunning views! Here is a post about it.
Peace & Love.
