Griggs was born in Waterbury on May 2, 1866, to Henry C. and Mary Bassett (Foote) Griggs. He attended the Waterbury English and Classical School until about 1882, when he went to work for the Waterbury Clock Company. In 1884 he began attending classes at the Sheffield Scientific School, in New Haven, receiving his degree in 1887.[1] After, he went to Columbia University in New York, where he studied architecture, graduating in 1889.[2] For the next few years he worked for New York architects, possibly including Charles D. Marvin, a slightly older architect.
In 1891 he returned to Waterbury, where he opened an office. A few months later he entered into a partnership with the much older Robert W. Hill, with the stated aim of taking over Hill's office at his retirement. This occurred in about 1892. For a brief period circa 1895 he reassociated with Hill, who soon returned to retirement, this time permanently.[1] Griggs practiced alone until 1900, when he associated with William E. Hunt, as Griggs & Hunt. Griggs & Hunt grew into Waterbury's leading architectural firm, and lasted until Hunt moved to Torrington in late 1914.[3][4] After that, Griggs practiced alone until his death on June 24, 1918. He was interred at Riverside Cemetery in Waterbury.[5]
Though temporarily managed by Griggs' estate, in early 1919 Fred A. Webster, Griggs' chief draughtsman, took over the business under his own name.[6]
Wilfred E. Griggs, 1891-1900
1892 - Y. M. C. A. Building, 136 W Main St, Waterbury, Connecticut[3]
Demolished
1894 - Odd Fellows Building, 36 N Main St, Waterbury, Connecticut[3]
