Claymont, DE
- About Claymont
- Geography
- Climate and Weather
- Landmarks and Points of Interest
- Transport
- Museums
- Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Claymont is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in New Castle County, Delaware, serving as a suburban gateway between Wilmington and Philadelphia.
About Claymont
Official Status and Administrative Affiliation
Claymont is a census-designated place (CDP) in New Castle County, Delaware, United States. As an unincorporated community, it does not have a municipal government of its own but is directly administered by New Castle County . Its full official name is simply Claymont. It is located in the state of Delaware, specifically within New Castle County, which is the northernmost and most populous county in the state, forming part of the Delaware Valley region.
Date of Foundation and Age
The area now known as Claymont has a long history of habitation, first settled by aboriginal peoples of the Middle Woodland period along Naamans Creek . European settlement began in the 17th century with the Dutch. The community was originally known as Naaman's Creek, named after a local Lenape chief . It was renamed Claymont in 1856 after Reverend John B. Clemson, who relocated to the area from his family's plantation, Claymont Court, in West Virginia . This makes the community over 165 years old under its current name.
Geographic Position and Coordinates
- Geographic Coordinates: 39°48′02″N 75°27′35″W (39.8006685, -75.4596404) .
- Location: Claymont is situated in the northeastern part of New Castle County, on the ridge line between the coastal floodplain of the Delaware River and the upland piedmont area . It is bordered by Pennsylvania to the north and the Delaware River to the east .
- Elevation: The elevation is approximately 75 feet (23 meters) above sea level .
- Type of Settlement: Claymont is a suburban community and census-designated place, acting as a northern suburb of Wilmington and a southern suburb of Philadelphia, located about 20 miles from each .
City Type and Economic Specialization
Claymont is primarily a residential suburb with a strong transportation and logistics function. Its economy is a mix of retail, industrial, and manufacturing activities. Historically an industrial town with a steel mill and chemical plant, it is currently undergoing significant redevelopment . A major recent development is the construction of a $170 million cold storage facility by Agile Cold Storage at the former steel mill site, expected to bring 130 new jobs and solidify Claymont's role in the supply chain and transportation sector . Local retail and dining, concentrated along Philadelphia Pike, also form a key part of its economy .
Population and Demography
- Population: According to the 2020 U.S. Census, the population of the Claymont CDP was 9,895 . However, the broader 19703 ZIP Code Tabulation Area, which encompasses Claymont and its adjacent neighborhoods, had a population of 15,936 as of the 2023 American Community Survey .
- Population Class: By CDP population (under 10,000), it is a small town, though its wider area functions as a small-to-mid-sized suburban community.
- Demographic Features: Claymont has a diverse population. As of 2023-2024 estimates, the racial makeup of the area was approximately 55-57% White, 27% African American, 9% Hispanic or Latino, and 6% Asian . The median age is around 38 years old, and the median household income is approximately $76,000 . About 11.4% of residents are foreign-born, adding to the community's diversity .
"Visiting Card" of the City (Briefly)
Claymont is a historic riverside community in northern Delaware, serving as a convenient and charming gateway between Wilmington and Philadelphia. With its easy access to I-95 and a SEPTA Regional Rail station, it offers residents and visitors a blend of suburban tranquility, ongoing urban revitalization, and proximity to the major attractions of the Brandywine Valley and the greater Philadelphia area.
Geography
Water Bodies (Rivers, Creeks)
The major natural landmark in Claymont is the Delaware River, which forms the community's eastern border . At this point, the river is over a mile wide. Naamans Creek is another significant waterway, flowing into the Delaware River and marking the site of the area's earliest settlements . Perkins Run creek forms the southern boundary of the area generally considered to be Claymont .
Unique Landscapes and Topography
Unlike much of the rest of Delaware, Claymont is actually fairly hilly . This is because it is situated on the ridge line between the coastal floodplain of the Delaware River and the upland piedmont area . This elevated terrain offers some pleasant views of the Delaware River and New Jersey. The soil is known for its high clay content, which is how the community got its name .
Parks and Protected Areas
Claymont itself and its immediate surroundings feature several parks and protected areas:
- Fox Point State Park: A 108-acre Delaware state park located along the Delaware River in Claymont. It was rehabilitated from a former hazardous waste site and now offers a riverfront promenade, picnic areas, playgrounds, and excellent views of the river, the nearby industrial landscape, and, on clear days, the Philadelphia skyline .
- Bellevue State Park: Located just south of Claymont in the suburbs of Wilmington, this 328-acre park was a former DuPont family estate. It features a 1 1/8-mile horse track now used by cyclists and pedestrians, an outdoor concert venue, ponds, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a Frisbee golf course .
- Woodshaven Kruse Park: A local public park within Claymont offering space for community engagement and leisure .
- Northern Delaware Greenway Trail: A multi-use trail that passes through the area, connecting parks and providing a route for hikers and cyclists .
Nearby Parks and Natural Areas
Slightly further afield are other notable destinations:
- Brandywine Creek State Park: Spanning over 900 acres, this park offers picturesque hiking trails, meadows, and breathtaking views of the Brandywine River, just a short drive from Claymont .
- First State National Historical Park (Brandywine Valley Unit): Characterized by rolling hills, woodlands, and the Brandywine River, this unit of the national park is nearby and offers a glimpse into the region's history and natural beauty .
- Beaver Valley: A beautiful, bucolic area that spans the Pennsylvania-Delaware border near Claymont .
Climate and Weather
Type of Climate and General Characteristics
Claymont, Delaware, has a humid subtropical climate (Cfa) under the Köppen climate classification, characterized by hot, humid summers and cool to mild winters. It experiences four distinct seasons.
Average Temperatures
While precise monthly averages for Claymont itself are not detailed in the search results, its climate is typical of the mid-Atlantic region.
- Summer: Summers are hot and humid, with average high temperatures often in the mid-to-upper 80s°F (around 30-32°C) and lows in the 60s°F (around 18-21°C). Heatwaves can push temperatures into the 90s°F (above 35°C).
- Winter: Winters are cool to cold, with average high temperatures in the low 40s°F (around 4-6°C) and lows often below freezing (around -2 to -4°C). Snowfall is common but not usually extreme.
- Spring and Fall: These are transitional seasons with mild to warm temperatures and lower humidity, making them particularly pleasant times for outdoor activities.
Precipitation and Humidity
- Precipitation: Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. The area receives an average of about 45-50 inches of precipitation annually, including rain and snowfall . The wettest months tend to be during the summer thunderstorm season.
- Humidity: Humidity levels can be high, especially during the summer months, contributing to the muggy feel of the season.
Seasonality and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Claymont for pleasant weather and outdoor activities is during the spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). During these months, temperatures are mild, humidity is lower, and the natural scenery is at its best, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer is suitable for enjoying riverfront parks and water activities, but visitors should be prepared for heat and humidity. Winter can be cold and offers a quieter, more serene landscape.
Landmarks and Points of Interest
Historic Sites
Claymont is home to several historic places that reflect its long history :
- The Claymont Stone School: Established in 1805, this historic schoolhouse is one of the oldest in the state and may have been Delaware's first racially integrated public school. It is a testament to the community's early commitment to education.
- The Darley House: Built in 1859, this was the former home of F. O. C. Darley, who was known as the "Father of American Illustration." The house is a significant artistic and historic landmark.
- The Robinson House and Block House: The Robinson House dates back to 1723. On its grounds is the Block House, believed to be the only structure remaining from the original Naaman's Creek settlement, constructed in 1654 for defense against Indians, making it one of the oldest buildings in the state .
- Archmere Academy: Established in 1916, this private Catholic school is located in the former estate of industrialist John J. Raskob (a DuPont and General Motors executive). It is notable for its picturesque setting and as the alma mater of President Joe Biden.
- Grubb/Worth Mansion: Erected in 1783, this mansion is another fine example of Claymont's historical architecture from its early days as a stop along the King's Highway .
Memorials
- Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial: A monument located on the median by a local gas station on Governor Printz Boulevard, honoring veterans .
Parks with Historical or Recreational Interest
- Bellevue State Park: As mentioned in the geography section, this park features ornate former DuPont buildings and a beautiful setting, blending history with recreation .
- Fox Point State Park: A prime example of environmental reclamation, this park offers unique industrial-chic views alongside its natural riverfront setting .
Transport
Major Airports
- Nearest Major Airport: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the closest major international airport, located approximately 20 miles north of Claymont and easily accessible via I-95 .
- Alternative Airport: New Castle County Airport (ILG) in Wilmington offers limited commercial service and is a smaller alternative for private and charter flights . Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are also within driving distance for more options.
Major Highways
Claymont is a major thoroughfare with excellent road connectivity :
- Interstate 95 (I-95): The main north-south artery on the East Coast, providing direct access to Wilmington (south) and Philadelphia (north).
- Interstate 495 (I-495): An alternate bypass route that also serves the area, particularly for traffic heading towards the Delaware River ports.
- U.S. Route 13 (Governor Printz Boulevard): A major north-south highway running through Claymont.
- U.S. Route 13 Bus. (Philadelphia Pike): The historic alignment of US 13, which is the main commercial and historic thoroughfare through the heart of Claymont.
- Delaware Route 92 (Naamans Road): An important east-west connector.
Train Service
- Claymont Station: This station is served by SEPTA Regional Rail on its Wilmington/Newark Line . It provides regular commuter rail service north to Center City Philadelphia and south to Wilmington and Newark, Delaware.
- Future Transportation Center: Construction began in 2019 on the $71 million Claymont Regional Transportation Center, which will replace the current commuter rail stop and serve as a multi-modal hub .
- Amtrak: While Amtrak's Northeast Corridor trains pass through Claymont, they do not stop. The nearest Amtrak station is in Wilmington .
Bus Service
- DART First State: Provides local bus service in Claymont. Key routes include Route 13 (to Wilmington along Philadelphia Pike) and Route 61 (west along Naamans Road to the Brandywine Town Center) .
- SEPTA Suburban Bus: Route 113 runs from the Tri-State Mall in Claymont north into Delaware County, Pennsylvania, connecting to other SEPTA transportation hubs .
Museums
Claymont is home to several historical societies and museums, with many located in the historic Robinson House, a building that dates back to 1723 . This structure, situated at the intersection of Naamans Road and The Kings Highway (U.S. Route 13), serves as a hub for local heritage .
Robinson House
The Robinson House itself is a historic guest house constructed in 1723, built on the site of the original settlement on Naaman's Creek . It is a significant historical landmark in its own right. Today, the building is the headquarters for three organizations dedicated to preserving area history: the Claymont Historical Society, the Darley Society, and the Naamans Heritage Association . The house is open to the public on the second Sunday of every month from 13:30 to 16:00, with free admission .
Claymont Historical Society
Founded in 1975, the Claymont Historical Society is a nonprofit organization operating out of the Robinson House . The society maintains a museum and library with a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents related to Claymont and the surrounding area . Its exhibits focus on local history, including displays on the history of the Robinson House, the local farming industry, and Claymont's role in the Underground Railroad, as the Robinson House itself served as a station on this network . The society hosts educational programs and events throughout the year, such as lectures, tours, and workshops .
Darley Art and Historic Society
Also located within the Robinson House, the Darley Art and Historic Society Museum focuses on the artistic and cultural heritage of the region . It showcases artwork from local artists, featuring various mediums, styles, and themes, and frequently hosts rotating exhibits . The museum also holds historical collections that highlight significant events and influential figures from Claymont's past . Like the Historical Society, it offers educational programs, workshops, and community events aimed at engaging the public .
Nearby Museums in Wilmington, DE
For those willing to travel a short distance, the nearby city of Wilmington, Delaware, offers a wider array of museum options . Notable institutions there include the Delaware Art Museum, the Hagley Museum & Library, which focuses on history and industry, and the Nemours Mansion & Gardens, a historic house with botanical gardens .
Medical Institutions and Healthcare
Claymont has several healthcare facilities offering a range of services, from primary care to specialized treatment.
Primary Care and Family Medicine
ChristianaCare Primary Care at Darley Green (formerly ChristianaCare Primary Care at Claymont) provides family medicine services for patients of all ages, from newborns to adults . Certified as a Patient-Centered Medical Home, the clinic offers primary medical care, immunizations, minor medical procedures, physical examinations, and on-site lab services . They are located in Claymont and offer evening hours by appointment .
Claymont Family Health Services, located on Green Street, provides primary health care services through volunteer physicians . This center targets individuals and families with little or no health insurance, offering general exams, blood pressure screenings, treatment for minor illnesses, women's health services, dermatology, and immunizations .
Claymont Family Medicine Center, situated on Philadelphia Pike, is another local practice specializing in Family Medicine, with practitioners also in Nurse Practitioner and Obstetrics & Gynecology .
Specialty and Long-Term Care
Crozer Keystone Health System has a presence in Claymont on Naamans Road, offering primary care physician services and specialist connections, such as in sleep medicine . Neighbors have noted accessing long-term, ongoing care through this system .
Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Claymont has facilities dedicated to treating substance use disorders. Claymont Comprehensive Treatment Ctr ATS of Delaware Inc, located on Philadelphia Pike, is a private organization offering outpatient treatment for adults and young adults . They specialize in treating opioid addictions (including heroin and prescription painkillers) using medication-assisted treatment with methadone and buprenorphine, combined with counseling services . The facility holds multiple accreditations, including from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) .
Several other treatment centers are located in close proximity within Claymont and nearby, including Gaudenzia and Coras Wellness and Behavioral Health .