It was developed at a time when Dayton's population was moving from the center of the city outward, north of the Miami River. Grafton Hill was enlarged and enriched in 1875 when John Stoddard, a wealthy and prominent farm implement manufacturer, developed the exclusive Belmonte Park residential area.
It was created at a time when Dayton's population was shifting from the city center to the outskirts, north of the Miami River. Grafton Hill was expanded and improved in 1875 when John Stoddard, a wealthy and influential farm equipment manufacturer, developed the upscale Belmonte Park residential district.