Clinton’s history is defined by its rise as an industrial powerhouse centered on the ingenuity of the Bigelow brothers. Incorporated as a separate town in 1850 (splitting from Lancaster), Clinton became world-renowned thanks to Erastus Brigham Bigelow, who invented the power loom for manufacturing goods like coachlace and, later, high-quality carpets. The Bigelow Carpet Company became the largest carpet manufacturer in the world, with its products found in elite venues from the White House to the Titanic. This industrial success, powered by the Nashua River, attracted successive waves of immigrants, including large Irish, German, and French-Canadian communities, who created a dense, bustling mill village. A significant moment in the town’s history came at the turn of the 20th century with the construction of the Wachusett Dam, a massive public works project that created the Wachusett Reservoir, flooding parts of the original town but securing its reputation as a major regional player in central Massachusetts.

Today, Clinton maintains its small-town charm while actively revitalizing its historic industrial core. Following the decline of the big mill industries in the mid-20th century, the town’s economy has diversified. Modern businesses, including those involved in plastic molds, wire and cable, and commercial printing, now occupy the old mill buildings. Clinton serves as a residential base for commuters, offering easy access to Worcester. The town is home to the internationally recognized Museum of Russian Icons and boasts Fuller Field, claimed to be the oldest continuously used baseball field in the world. Current community efforts are focused on downtown revitalization, including grants for small businesses and programs aimed at enhancing the quality of life, ensuring that Clinton’s rich history supports a forward-looking, vibrant community.