Claremont

Settled in 1762, Claremont is the only city in Sullivan County with an estimated population of 12,866 in 2009. Located along the Connecticut River, bordering Vermont, Claremont is centrally located within the Greater Claremont Chamber of Commerce communities. Cornish and Plainfield are located north of Claremont, with Charlestown to the south, and Unity and Lempster to the east.

Claremont is also located in the region of New Hampshire known as the Dartmouth-­‐Lake Sunapee Region. Claremont and the surrounding region offer a variety of year-round recreational and leisure activities. In Claremont the 325-­‐acre Moody Park offers trails that can be used for hiking, running, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing. The park also offers tennis courts, picnic tables and grills, and an outdoor skating rink. The Sugar River Recreational Trail, running from Claremont to Newport, also offers many of the same activities along the Sugar River following an old railroad bed that has two covered bridges.

Claremont has a rich history as a New England mill town. The Sugar River, which passes through the city, offered water power during the Industrial Revolution. Large brick mills were built along the river, and the principle products produced were paper, cotton and woolen textiles, and machinery. Much like other New England mill towns, many of the factories became vacant in the late 20th century. However, more recently some of the mills were renovated and now house state offices, a restaurant, an inn, and other businesses.

The former prosperity of the mills is evident in the Historic Downtown District with its Victorian architecture. Foremost is Claremont City Hall, which houses the Claremont Opera House.  The building was dedicated in 1897 and designed by Charles A. Rich, who was responsible for many buildings at Dartmouth College. It is the focal point of the downtown area with a clock tower that can be seen from many parts of the city. The Claremont Opera House schedules a variety of performances throughout the year for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Presently, Claremont has a diverse business culture including manufacturing, agriculture, and retail.  New and growing companies range from manufacturing to high tech.