Clermont Ridge
Baxter's new hometown
Clermont Ridge sits in the expansive plains of West Texas. It was born in July of 1881 and had a post office in 1885. Although it didn't become a county seat until January 1891 and incorporated as a city until 1927. It began as merely a stop on both the The Texas and Pacific Railway and the Southern Pacific Railroad (now part of the Union Pacific Railroad). It was first and originally a water stop and coaling station for the railroad, but it soon became a cattle shipping point and also a transportation hub where both passengers and cargo were delivered to and through.
Being in the South, many folks were made to be creators of a true home and community. They created an atmosphere of genuine politeness, kindness, charity, and helpfulness. They really familiarized themselves with newcomers becoming inviting and personable with each other. They were laid-back, yes. But they created an atmosphere of home which encouraged others to move here via trains or other means.
This unique character stands even today. A testament to the enduring legacy and honor of our ancestors and a bright future guiding the townspeople and their descendants.
Clermont Ridge has a council–manager government, with a city council of six councilors (elected from geographic districts and one at-large) and a mayor (elected at-large).
The city council is responsible for setting policies and making decisions on a variety of municipal matters, ranging from public safety to urban planning. Each councilor brings a unique perspective to the table, representing the diverse needs and interests of their respective districts. The mayor, elected by the entire city, plays a crucial role in providing leadership and ensuring that the council's vision aligns with the community's aspirations.
The city manager, appointed by the council, oversees the day-to-day operations of the local government, implementing policies and managing city staff. This structure is designed to promote efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to the residents of Clermont Ridge. The collaboration between the elected officials and the city manager ensures that the city is well-governed and that resources are used effectively to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.
Clermont Ridge was founded by the Thompsons and other families long ago. Its history is rich with tales of perseverance and community spirit. The early settlers worked together to build homes, schools, and churches, laying the foundation for a close-knit town that would thrive for generations.
For many years, it remained a small town. It was only during the Great Depression when visitors stopped coming and settlers stopped settling.
Then a miracle occurred!
Baxter Jevon Oran Baggs came into town mysteriously. But he soon told certain people his story. It was after this that he found a gold mine, old and left behind by The Thompson Family. Baxter was rewarded handsomely. How much was never disclosed.
All the money he received was split between building a mansion for himself and ensuring the town would have an enduring legacy lasting for generations! This meant that he gave money to continue the construction of civil buildings and to ensure the town was laid out for expansion.
Only when the town was in the newspaper did more new people come and settle down in the town.
Baxter became the most infamous resident. Although not the last one to settle in Clermont Ridge.
Over the years, Clermont Ridge expanded, welcoming new residents while maintaining its small-town charm. The town has grown but not into a city.
Baxter Jevon Oran Baggs
Gideon Kendrick Stephenson, member of Clermont Nine
Mitchell Cloven Wile, also a member of Clermont Nine
Seven Unnamed of the Clermont Nine
Various Townspeople
Clermont Ridge Government
Clermont Ridge has a council–manager government, with a city council of six councilors (elected from geographic districts and one at-large) and a mayor (elected at-large).
The city council is responsible for setting policies and making decisions on a variety of municipal matters, ranging from public safety to urban planning. Each councilor brings a unique perspective to the table, representing the diverse needs and interests of their respective districts. The mayor, elected by the entire city, plays a crucial role in providing leadership and ensuring that the council's vision aligns with the community's aspirations.
The city manager, appointed by the council, oversees the day-to-day operations of the local government, implementing policies and managing city staff. This structure is designed to promote efficiency, accountability, and responsiveness to the residents of Clermont Ridge. The collaboration between the elected officials and the city manager ensures that the city is well-governed and that resources are used effectively to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.
History
Clermont Ridge was founded by the Thompsons and other families long ago. Its history is rich with tales of perseverance and community spirit. The early settlers worked together to build homes, schools, and churches, laying the foundation for a close-knit town that would thrive for generations.
For many years, it remained a small town. It was only during the Great Depression when visitors stopped coming and settlers stopped settling.
Then a miracle occurred!
Baxter Jevon Oran Baggs came into town mysteriously. But he soon told certain people his story. It was after this that he found a gold mine, old and left behind by The Thompson Family. Baxter was rewarded handsomely. How much was never disclosed.
All the money he received was split between building a mansion for himself and ensuring the town would have an enduring legacy lasting for generations! This meant that he gave money to continue the construction of civil buildings and to ensure the town was laid out for expansion.
Only when the town was in the newspaper did more new people come and settle down in the town.
Baxter became the most infamous resident. Although not the last one to settle in Clermont Ridge.
Over the years, Clermont Ridge expanded, welcoming new residents while maintaining its small-town charm. The town has grown but not into a city.
Known Residents
Baxter Jevon Oran Baggs
Gideon Kendrick Stephenson, member of Clermont Nine
Mitchell Cloven Wile, also a member of Clermont Nine
Seven Unnamed of the Clermont Nine
Various Townspeople
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Author's Notes
This is an author's note.