Clay County

Clay County is an administrative division in southwestern Indiana that encompasses multiple communities and towns across its territory. The city of Brazil functions as its governmental center, housing the county offices and main public institutions.

The county was created in 1825 from territories taken from neighboring counties and named after the influential statesman Henry Clay. A significant turning point came in 1876 when the seat of government relocated, reshaping how the region was organized.

The courthouse in Brazil serves as the visual heart of the county, drawing people together for civic matters and community events. Locals navigate their daily lives around this building, making it more than just an administrative center but a social anchor for the region.

Exploring the area is best done by car, as communities are spread across the county rather than clustered together. Plan for driving time between towns and allow flexibility in your schedule when visiting multiple locations.

Local residents raised funds to move the county government from Bowling Green to Brazil, a rare example of citizens directly shaping municipal administration. This effort reveals how important control over local affairs was to early communities.

Location: Indiana

Inception: February 12, 1825

Capital city: Brazil

Shares border with: Parke County, Putnam County, Owen County, Greene County, Sullivan County, Vigo County

Website: http://claycountyin.gov

GPS coordinates: 39.40000,-87.11000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:45