Henry Clay (1777-1852), born in Hanover county, served in the US Senate and House of Representatives and as Secretary of State in the John Quincy Adams administration. Known as the "Great Pacificator," Clay worked to keep peace between the North and the South and was instrumental in the formulation of the Missouri Compromise of 1820.
An historical marker,
Clay's Birthplace, ND 6 was erected in 1934 by Virginia's Conservation and Development Commission. It was located on Hanover Courthouse Road (Rte. 301) at its intersection of Stumpy Road, south of Hanover Courthouse. Clay's actual birthplace is a few miles distant on private property, and is remote to the traveling public.
Click here for more marker information.
In early 2014, The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) removed the existing marker due to its location and condition. The Department of Historical Resources (DHR) has determined that it would be more cost effective to replace it, as a new marker could provide a richer description of Clay, "Hanover's other native son."
Through DHR, VDOT has advised that the marker's original location, with a slight distance adjustment, would be acceptable for a replacement.