History
The Story of Belmont
Belmont’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and community. What began as a quiet settlement along the Catawba River has grown into a thriving town where history and progress meet at every turn.
Each chapter has shaped the Belmont we know today—woven with the hard work of mill families, the vision of early settlers, and the enduring spirit of its people.
A fort was built at the confluence of the Catawba and the South Fork Rivers. Settlers of Scotch-Irish origin arrive from Virginia. Much of the land which would become Belmont was acquired by the father of Major William Chronicle. Life centered on farming, and because the town was surrounded by waterways, residents rarely traveled outside the area, creating a close-knit community.
The opening of Stowesville Cotton Mill marked Belmont’s first step toward industry and was one of the earliest mills in Gaston County. While most residents still relied on agriculture, the mill signaled the beginning of an economic shift that would grow in the coming decades.
Charlotte and Atlanta Air Line Railroad (what becomes the
Southern Railway) extends through the area, with a water tank
and fueling station established at the place known as Garibaldi Station—what would become Belmont.
The Caldwell Plantation was donated to Benedictine monks,
leading to the establishment of Belmont Abbey and shaping the development of downtown Belmont. The Abbey quickly became a cultural and educational center, helping shape the identity of the growing town.
Garibaldi Station was renamed Belmont. Latin for
“Beautiful Mountain,” the new name reflected the area’s scenic landscape, and was likely inspired by Spencer Mountain. The Benedictine monks encouraged the change, distancing the community from associations with Giuseppe Garibaldi, an Italian figure opposed to the Catholic Church.
Belmont officially became a town, establishing a mayor, council,
and public servants to provide organized governance.
The Chronicle Mill became Belmont’s first major textile facility, setting the stage for a booming industry. By the 1930s, over 20 mills operated in town, and the population grew from 145 in 1900 to nearly 4,000 residents.
As textiles declined, Belmont experienced short-term economic struggles. In recent decades, proximity to Charlotte and waterfront access has fueled revitalization, residential growth, and downtown redevelopment, balancing modern identity with small-town charm.
Thank you to the Belmont Historical Society, City of Belmont,
Downtown Belmont Development Association (DBDA), and Daniel Stowe Conservancy.
