Clay County, Georgia
Clay County is located in southwestern Georgia along the Alabama border. Fort Gaines serves as the county seat, and the county was named in honor of Henry Clay, the influential Kentucky senator and statesman known for his role in shaping early American politics.
Lake Walter F. George, also known as Lake Eufaula, forms the county’s western boundary and provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Agriculture remains an important part of the local economy, with peanuts and cotton continuing to be the county’s primary crops.
Like many rural counties in the region, Clay County has experienced a gradual population decline over the years. Despite its challenges, the county maintains a quiet, small-town atmosphere where history, agriculture, and a strong sense of community continue to define everyday life.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Clay County |
| County Seat | Fort Gaines |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Fort Gaines, and several unincorporated communities |
| Interstates and Highways | US 27, US 82, State Route 37 |
| Etymology | Named after Henry Clay, an American statesman |
| FIPS Code | 13-061 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 211 square miles (land: 190 sq mi, water: 21 sq mi) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Georgia |
| Coordinates | 31.5823° N, 84.7582° W |
| Major Landmarks | Lake Eufaula (partially in Clay County), Fort Gaines Historic District |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Quitman County (North), Randolph County (Northeast), Calhoun County (East), Early County (South), Henry County, Alabama (West), Barbour County, Alabama (Northwest) |
| Population | Approximately 3,000 |
