Clay County, Georgia

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Clay County is in the southwestern part of Georgia. The county seat and largest city is Fort Gaines. It was named after Henry Clay, a famous 19th‑century American statesman. The county covers about 217 square miles, mostly land.

As of 2020, about 2,848 people lived there, making Clay County one of Georgia’s least populated counties. The area is mainly rural, with most residents living outside of towns. The median age is around 47, and many residents are 65 or older.

History: The land was home to the Creek Nation before the 1830s. After Indian removal, White settlers grew cotton using enslaved people. After the Civil War, timber became another important industry. Clay County was created in 1854 from parts of Early and Randolph counties.

Demographics: The population is roughly 40% White and 56% Black or African American, with small percentages of other races. About a quarter of residents are under 18, and a similar share are 65 or older. There are about 1,250 households, with most homes owned by the residents.

Politics: Clay County has shifted in recent years from a long history of Democratic voting to a more mixed or swing stance. In recent statewide and national elections, Republicans have carried the county, but it remains competitive. It is in Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District, and in the state Senate District 12 and House District 154.

Time zone: Eastern.