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Belmont's story begins in colonial times, around the mid-1700s, when early settlers established a fort at the confluence of the Catawba River and its South Fork. The natural rivers and land forms made the area strategic for settlement, trade, and defense. The community around this fort became known as Garibaldi Station in the 19th century, named after a railroad stop essential to connecting the region with Charlotte, Gastonia, and beyond. Over time, agriculture—especially cotton and subsistence crops—supported early residents along the fertile riverbanks.

In 1853 the Stowesville Cotton Mill became one of the first textile mills in Gaston County, signaling a shift in the local economy. Even so, for many decades Belmont remained a quiet agricultural village. Settlement patterns clustered near the rail line, and a small commercial center grew around the depot and general stores. In 1886, Garibaldi Station was renamed Belmont, a Latin-inspired name meaning "Beautiful Mountain," likely chosen to reflect the scenic hills nearby. By 1895, Belmont was formally incorporated. Industrialization accelerated in the early 20th century, with the establishment of Chronicle Mills in 1901 catalyzing further growth. Over the next three decades, Belmont became home to several mills, forming a strong textile economy.

Belmont's infrastructure evolved in tandem with its industrial base. The arrival of the railroad laid its foundation, and later highways deepened connectivity to Charlotte and surrounding communities. Downtown Belmont developed a distinct architectural character, mixing commercial buildings, residences, and institutional structures. The Belmont Historic District, with hundreds of contributing buildings in styles from Colonial Revival to Craftsman bungalows, now reflects the layered growth of the town. Key landmarks such as the former Belmont Depot, Bank of Belmont, and houses built by prominent mill families stand as visual markers of the city's evolution.

Community life in Belmont is deeply tied to its industrial legacy and educational institutions. Belmont Abbey College, founded in 1876 on acres donated by Father Jeremiah O'Connell, has long been a cultural and educational anchor. Religious life, mills, and local civic organizations shaped the daily rhythms of residents. Even into the late 20th century, mill villages and worker housing preserved a strong sense of neighborhood, with schools, churches, and social institutions uniting generations. Preservation efforts began in earnest in the 1990s, when local activists and city planning initiatives recognized the value of Belmont's historic architecture and fabric.

In contemporary Belmont, the town has evolved into a well-balanced community blending heritage and growth. Its proximity to Charlotte and Gastonia makes it attractive to commuters, while its own downtown restaurants, shops, and cultural offerings draw local traffic. Historic homes are restored, adaptive reuse projects are encouraged, and local governance supports smart growth. Belmont's identity reflects both its past as a thriving textile town and its present as a vibrant suburban city that still cherishes its historic roots.