Brig. Gen. Green Clay-- Part 3: Defender of Fort Meigs, Wealthiest Man in Kentucky

When the British gave up their siege of Fort Meigs, Clay was left in command of the fort.  He was still commanding when the British returned  in July 1813. Tecumseh was again with them.

In an attempt to lure Green Clay and his troops out of Fort Meigs, the Indians staged a mock battle, appearing to ambush a column of American reinforcements.

Clay was not fooled as he knew no reinforcements were coming.  He was able to hold out in Fort Meigs until the British again gave up their siege and retreated.

After the war, Clay returned to his plantation  where he spent the rest of his life directing his slaves in cultivating tobacco and hemp.

He is thought to have been the wealthiest man in Kentucky at this time.  He died at his home in 1828 at the age of 73 and was buried with Masonic Rites at White Hall Family Cemetery in Richmond, Kentucky.

Clay County, Kentucky, is named for him.

--Brock-Perry