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Clayton Today and Yesterday

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the 2006 population of Clayton stands at 13,842. This makes Clayton the fastest growing town in Johnston County. Although it has experienced tremendous growth in the past 10 years, it maintains a small-town charm that welcomes newcomers and visitors alike.

Clayton’s public schools are a major factor in attracting residents. Administered by Johnston County Schools, area elementary, middle and high schools are among the top performing schools in the county. JCS is committed to providing a high-quality education for its students and boasts nine Schools of Distinction, 13 Schools of Excellence and 11 Honor Schools of Excellence countywide.

Clayton is surrounded by a thriving industrial base and offers diverse recreational activities, numerous educational opportunities and a burgeoning cultural and visual arts community. Its citizens—who range from young families to retirees—enjoy the comfort and security of living within a small community and are able to take advantage of the benefits of living close to the major metropolitan Triangle area.

Clayton strives to be a diverse town that provides avenues of growth for education, industry, small business and recreation. The Clayton Area Chamber of Commerce works cooperatively with town officials and area businesses to promote business and economic development, increase civic awareness and community development and support educational opportunities throughout town.

History

The Town of Clayton had its beginnings in the early 1700s, when settlers began to occupy land formerly inhabited by Tuscarora and Sioux Indians. Originally known as Stallings’ Station, a depot along the North Carolina Railroad, it mostly consisted of several small stores that served the rural area. The first post office, built in 1845, was located just southeast of its present site, under the name of Gulley’s Store, and was officially renamed Clayton in 1856.

Following the Civil War, Clayton saw a surge of activity. Agricultural production increased, and, as a result, new markets formed, both locally and regionally, connected via the railroad to other centers of commerce. The Town of Clayton was incorporated 1869 and since that time has become a dynamic, thriving community that has grown into the second largest town in Johnston County.