Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate

🎶 Ready for Jazz on the Lawn? 🧺✨ We’ve got the perfect companions for your evening under the stars—our beautiful, limited-stock picnic blankets and terra cotta wine coolers! Come by the Museum Store or order online, but don’t wait too long—these are going fast! 🥂🌿

https://henryclay.org/visit/shop/

The Board of Directors and Members of Ashland's African American Advisory Council were deeply saddened by the news of Fr. Norman Fischer's passing. He contributed greatly to Ashland's movement toward a more inclusive view of history. We will miss that quiet force he brought to the table - a force that valued fairness and justice.

Kentucky's beloved Henry Clay died on June 29, 1852. On July 6, 1852, President Abraham Lincoln delivered some insightful and poignant remarks on the life and death of Clay. As we enter the week of Independence Day celebrations, you may enjoy reading some excerpts from Lincoln's eulogy for Clay at this link. http://www.whatsoproudlywehail.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Lincoln_Clay.pdf

You've only got NINE days to make your reservations for one of Lexington's BEST events.

Join us on Saturday, June 22, as we celebrate the Lawn Party's 27th year! As the largest fundraising event of the year for Ashland, ALL proceeds go towards the maintenance and preservation of the house & grounds.

We'll get started at 5:30pm and go until 9pm. Don't miss one of Lexington's most cherished events!

General Admission: $225 per person. Table sponsorships are currently available at http://LP2024.GiveSmart.com

Thank you Professor H.W. Brands, Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and all of you who attended tonight’s event on the beautiful grounds of Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate. It was a great evening of learning, literacy, and a deeper dive into the origins of our country’s path to democracy. Thanks to all of the event sponsors as well, and to Selma’s Catering for the delicious refreshments.

Immerse yourself in a captivating evening with author and historian H.W. Brands at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate! 📚 Co-sponsored by Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, secure your tickets for June 6th, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Admission price of $50 includes his latest book, a signature cocktail, appetizers by Selma's Catering, and a photo op with the author. Don't miss out! Reserve your tickets today: https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Join us on Saturday, June 22, as we celebrate the Lawn Party's 27th year! As the largest fundraising event of the year for Ashland, ALL proceeds go towards the maintenance and preservation of the house & grounds.

We'll get started at 5:30pm and go until 9pm. Don't miss one of Lexington's most cherished events!

General Admission: $225 per person. Table sponsorships are currently available at http://LP2024.GiveSmart.com

Don't miss a captivating evening with author and historian H.W. Brands at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate! 📚 Co-sponsored by Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, make sure to secure your tickets for June 6th, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Admission price of $50 includes his latest book, a signature cocktail, appetizers by Selma's Catering, and a photo op with the author. Get your tickets now: https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Dive deep into the foundations of American democracy with author and historian H.W. Brands at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate! 🌟

Co-sponsored by Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, purchase your tickets TODAY for an engaging discussion on June 6th, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Admission price of $50 includes one book, "Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics," a signature cocktail, appetizers by Selma's Catering, and a photo op with the author.

Mark your calendars and reserve your tickets here:
https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Unlock the secrets of American politics with author and historian H.W. Brands at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate!🗝️

Co-sponsored by Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation — secure your tickets now for Thursday, June 6th, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Admission price of $50 includes his new book, a signature cocktail, appetizers by Selma's Catering, and a photo op with the author.

Mark your calendars and reserve your tickets here:
https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Prepare to be captivated by an insightful exploration of American politics and the enduring legacy of Henry Clay with acclaimed author and historian H.W. Brands! 🌟

Co-sponsored by the prestigious Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation — this is an event you won't want to miss at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate.

Secure your spot now for an admission price of $50, which includes a copy of Brands' new book, "Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics," a signature cocktail crafted for the occasion, sumptuous appetizers by Selma's Catering, and an exclusive photo op with the author.

With limited tickets available, act fast and reserve your place today! https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Spring in Lexington, KY. I love our Dogwood tree.

Attention all history enthusiasts and literary aficionados!📜

Get ready for an extraordinary opportunity to hear from renowned author and historian H.W. Brands at the iconic Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate on June 6th, from 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Don't miss this exclusive event, co-sponsored by the esteemed Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation.

For just $50, immerse yourself in history. Admission price includes a copy of Brands' latest masterpiece, "Founding Partisans: Hamilton, Madison, Jefferson, Adams and the Brawling Birth of American Politics," along with a refreshing signature cocktail, delicious appetizers by Selma's Catering and Events, and a photo opportunity with the author.

Secure your tickets now and make history come alive! https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Born on this day in 1777 in Hanover County, Virginia, Henry Clay moved (with his family) to Kentucky in 1797. At age 20, Henry Clay received his law license becoming a leading lawyer in Kentucky and soon embarked on a career in politics. Henry Clay is widely considered one of, if not the, greatest U.S. Senator in the history of the institution. Henry Clay served as Speaker of the House longer than anyone other than Sam Rayburn and made the position the important, powerful it is now. Henry Clay also served as Secretary of State under President John Quincy Adams. Henry Clay was a presidential candidate (never winning) three different times: 1824, 1832, and finally in 1844. Learn more at www.henryclay.org.

Experience a thought-provoking evening with author and historian H.W. Brands at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate!

Co-sponsored by Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, make sure to reserve your tickets for June 6th, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Admission price of $50 includes one book, a signature cocktail, appetizers by Selma's Catering, and a photo op with the author. With this event, enjoy the debut of our new educational program, Finding Common Ground: History, Legacy & Literature at Ashland, presented by The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, and be part of the conversation. Don't miss this chance – book your tickets now! https://www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

Mark your calendars for an unforgettable evening with author and historian H.W. Brands at Ashland, the Henry Clay estate! Co-sponsored by the Kentucky Book Festival, Kentucky Humanities, and The Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, be sure to secure your tickets now for June 6th, 5:30-7:00 p.m.

Admission price of $50 includes his new book, a signature cocktail, appetizers by Selma's Catering, and a photo op with the author. With this event, enjoy the debut of our new educational program, Finding Common Ground: History, Legacy & Literature at Ashland, presented by Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate.

Get your tickets now! www.kyhumanities.org/programs/meet-author-h-w-brands

ANNUAL SPRING CLEAN-UP DAY
Saturday, April 6 – 9:00 am to 12 Noon
(Rain or Shine)

The estate continues to recover after last year's devastating windstorm. New trees have been planted, but there still remains the on-going maintenance effort. Picking up tree debris, mulching the paths, creating mulch rings around small trees, and removing vines from tree trunks. And, we need help flagging and filling "potholes" and ruts created by the fallen trees.

We will supply yard-waste bags, rakes, shovels, and wheelbarrows, water, and post-work pizza!

Wear your work boots and gloves, and bring your loppers and pruners.

See you there and thank you!

Looking for a choice in 2024? Come and get your "Vote Whig Tee Shirt" offered by H. Clay and Co. at the Ashland Museum Store Tues - Sat 10am-4pm. They're colorful and fun! Cost: $21.95

On Thursday, March 14 at 12:00PM, there will be an informational meeting at the Henry Clay Law Office (176 N. Mill Street) for those interested in the volunteer positions available at the Henry Clay Law Office. The meeting will be brief — just a meet & greet to share information about the positions and responsibilities involved.

Beginning in April, The Henry Clay Law Office will be open each Thursday through Saturday from 10AM - 4PM. Volunteers will greet and welcome guests to the Law Office; provide educational information regarding Clay's early career years; and assist in the sales of Henry Clay related merchandise.

If you are interested in volunteering, but unable to attend the informational meeting on Thursday, March 14, please contact Gwen Spann at [email protected].

In honor of Women’s History Month, Ashland is offering the Women’s Voices Tour on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3:45 pm.
Click on the link below to learn more about the Women who lived at Ashland.

The Women of Ashland: Stories of the Remarkable Women Who Lived at Ashland The women who lived at Ashland were a remarkable group, who helped ensure Ashland's survival. Here, a brief glimpse at these important women in Ashland's hi...

Do you LOVE history and meeting new people? Then you are exactly who we are looking for! Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate is looking for passionate and dedicated volunteers to staff the historic Henry Clay Law office located at 176 North Mill Street in downtown Lexington. There are several three-hour shifts available each Thursday through Saturday from 10am – 4 pm. You’ll enjoy meeting (and welcoming) visitors from all around the country to Lexington, KY and the Law Office. You’ll also be responsible for selling Henry Clay merchandise at the site as well. If interested, please contact Gwen Spann at [email protected] for more information.

Traces & Fragments Exhibit - Opening Saturday, February 24

Explore the new exhibit at Ashland's Laundry/Privy building, revealing how the curatorial team pieces together the story of enslaved individuals using legal documents, family correspondence, farm ledgers, and artifacts. Thanks to support from Kentucky Humanities and the National Endowment for the Humanities, this exhibit offers a straightforward and insightful look into Ashland's history. Learn more at: https://henryclay.org/exhibits-events/changing-exhibits/

Saturday, February 24, 2024 – Black History Month Open House

Discover Ashland's rich African American history from 1808-1948 in a new tour, Black History at Ahland. Uncover untold stories of enslaved individuals and those employed by the McDowells and Bullocks (1882-1948). New images and archival material will be showcased. Learn about the Digital Access Project, making records accessible online, through a live demonstration by Shea Brown and colleagues. The house opens with station guides; sign up for entry times every 15 minutes until 3:00pm. Don't miss this chance to reflect and commemorate Black History Month. Learn more at: https://henryclay.org/event/black-history-at-ashland-an-open-house
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All Open House attendees receive a coupon good for 50% off of the Signature or Traces tour.

Henry Clay – Ashland: The Henry Clay Estate Plan your perfect visit to historic Ashland. Take a tour, bring a group, explore the grounds, shop, dine at our seasonal café, take in some history, and enjoy year-round natural beauty.

Expect the unexpected — an impromptu concert on the grounds of Ashland this Friday afternoon!

Saturday, February 17, 2024 - African American Genealogy Workshop

Demystify the myths surrounding African American genealogy with us. Join our Educational Workshop, led by the African American Genealogy Group of Kentucky, Digital Access Project (DAP), and Ashland Henry Clay Estate. Uncover crucial research tips and grasp the profound significance of tracing your roots.

Key Highlights:
• Break the myth that this information is elusive.
• Dive deep into invaluable research tips for African American genealogy.
• Explore the life and legacy of Henry Clay and the untold stories of those once enslaved by the Clay family.

This transformative, free workshop is open to the public. Expect not only enlightening insights but a profound connection to our shared history. Learn more and register at https://henryclay.org/event/african-american-genealogy-workshop-at-ashland/

Celebrate Our Shared Heritage: Black History Month at Ashland

This month, Ashland honors the profound history of those who were enslaved, lived, worked, and later found employment at the estate. Embark on a journey through curated events and educational programs. Discover untold stories, resilience, and invaluable contributions of the enslaved community at Ashland. Join us in acknowledging, learning, and growing from our shared history. Let's create a space fostering understanding and appreciation. Commemorate Black History Month at Ashland with us. Learn more at: https://henryclay.org/events/