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ashland: tree
In honor of the 400th anniversary of the Clay family coming to America when John Claye arrived in Jamestown in 1613, Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate will be hosting a series of events in April called Clay Roots.
If your name is Clay, you might likely be related to the "Great Compromiser," Henry Clay. There are thousands of Clay descendants across the country, and many here in Kentucky. There will be a large Clay Family Roots Day from 2 − 4 p.m. on April 20, but you don't have to be a Clay to attend the activities, which include tours of the historic home, genealogy talks, family portraits and an ice cream social.
Other Clay Roots events include:
Ashland Stakes, April 6
Ashland Stakes race at Keeneland. The race is named for Ashland, the Henry Clay Estate and Clay was a major force in making Lexington the "Horse Capital of the World" with his thoroughbred breeding operation. The race is sponsored by Central Bank. After a day at Keeneland, enjoy an Ashland Steak special at Dudley's (120 West Short). Clay, a farmer, brought the first Hereford Cattle to the United States.
Happy Birthday Henry, April 8
Celebrate Henry Clay's birthday (born April 12, 1777) at Nick Ryan's (157 Jefferson St.). Special menu items and "Clay Cocktail," the regular menu for lunch and dinner will also be available. Part of proceeds from the day go to Ashland.
Arbor Celebration, April 21
From 1 − 4 p.m. Some of the over 400 trees at Ashland date back to Clay's time in the 1800s, including two of the original Ash trees. Join arborist Dave Leonard for a free tree talk and tour, as well as music from University of Kentucky Wind Symphony and kids' activities. Visitors will also have the opportunity to adopt one of Ashland's 400 trees – $50, $100, $250 or $500 helps maintain a tree for a year.
Tree and Bourbon Trail, April 28
From 5 − 7 p.m. Learn about Ashland's trees while sampling some of Kentucky's best bourbons on this fun and casual tree and bourbon walk around the estate's grounds in all its spring beauty. The event is $10.
For more information on any of these events, visit www.henryclay.org or call (859) 266-8581.