Clay County, Illinois
Clay County is located in southeastern Illinois, with Louisville serving as the county seat. The Little Wabash River winds through the county, while oil derricks stand alongside farms and form a distinctive part of the rural landscape.
The county is named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman. Agriculture remains the backbone of the local economy, while the oil industry has also played an important role in shaping Clay County’s history and development.
The Clay County Agricultural Fair is a popular summer highlight, while hunting draws outdoor enthusiasts during the fall. Local residents are known for their resilience and independent spirit, having faced difficult times together while maintaining a strong sense of community.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Clay County |
| County Seat | Louisville |
| Etymology | Named after Henry Clay, a prominent American statesman and politician |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Flora, Louisville, Clay City, Xenia, Iola, Ingraham, Sailor Springs, and various other unincorporated communities. |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 45, U.S. Highway 50, Illinois Route 37, Illinois Route 130 |
| FIPS Code | 17-025 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 469 square miles (land: 468 sq mi, water: 1 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Effingham County (North), Jasper County (Northeast), Richland County (East), Wayne County (South), Marion County (West), Fayette County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 38.7726° N, 88.4858° W |
| Major Landmarks | Charley Brown Park, Flora Depot, Little Wabash River, Clay County State Fish and Wildlife Area |
| Population | Approximately 13,000 |
