Clay County

Clay County is an administrative county in the mountainous region of southeastern Kentucky, with Manchester serving as its county seat. The landscape is characterized by numerous streams and natural limestone formations that define the terrain throughout the area.

The county was established on December 2, 1806, and named after Green Clay, a Kentucky state legislator. It was created from portions of Floyd, Knox, and Madison counties.

The county maintains Appalachian traditions through local festivals where residents showcase mountain music, traditional crafts, and regional storytelling techniques.

Manchester serves as the administrative center with essential public services, medical facilities, and schools for the region. The hilly terrain requires patience when driving, so plan extra time when traveling through the area.

Since 1860, the county has maintained remarkably consistent voting patterns in presidential elections, reflecting long-term political stability across generations. This sustained continuity is uncommon in American electoral history.

Location: Kentucky

Inception: December 2, 1806

Capital city: Manchester

Shares border with: Owsley County, Perry County, Leslie County, Bell County, Knox County, Laurel County, Jackson County

Website: https://claycounty.ky.gov

GPS coordinates: 37.16000,-83.71000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:00