Historically, Mount Clemens' largest industry was the mineral baths that were scattered throughout the city from 1873 until 1974. The city once encompassed 11 bathhouses and several hotels at its peak. The first bathhouse was built in 1873 and was known as “The Original” and was located on the corner of Jones and Water Street. The bathhouse remained until 1883 when the building burned, yet was rebuilt in 1884 and accommodated larger crowds. Over the years, noted visitors such as film actors Clark Gable and Mae West, athletes Babe Ruth and Jack Dempsey, news magnate William Randolph Hearst, and the Vanderbilt family vacationed in the city for the bath industry.

The significance of this political reform became clear as physical reform of the City followed quickly. Extensive urban renewal projects began in the 1950's and 1960's that greatly transformed the appearance of the Old City. Recent riverfront and downtown developments such as landscaping, a marina and a boardwalk enhance the City's attractiveness. As the County Seat and one of the oldest cities in Michigan, it remains as a financial and judicial center. Mount Clemens continues as a fine residential city and its citizens and business people are proud of its elegant, famous past and enthusiastically plan for its bright future.