Ashland-The Home of Henry Clay

         One of the most beautiful historical sites in "My Old Kentucky Home" that I was able to venture was the beautiful Ashland Estate of the late Henry Clay. Henry Clay labeled his home with the name, Ashland, because of the Ash trees that surround the land. It is also surrounded by numerous other beautiful estates. Over the years, the home began to crumble due to the house's faulty foundation and sand brick, so Henry Clay's son, James, rebuilt it.
          The grounds of this lovely estate portrayed that this estate was indeed a historical site. The grounds consisted of: an ice house, salt house, smokehouse, a lavish garden, and a cafe to eat at while touring.  The ice house and salt house were the first two sites I noticed when taking the tour of the grounds. Next, I noticed the smokehouse, which was where the meats were kept. After, taking the tour people can relax and eat at the outdoor cafe. Bushes and flowers cover the grounds of the lush green garden. All of these sites added to the lovely view of this estate.

             

    

      



              
            

               On my tour of this enormous home, I found out that Henry Clay was a  prominent figure in Kentucky and the United States of America due to his many accomplishments.  He was an attorney, a Congressman, a Senator, horse owner, and a farmer. He also earned the name "The Great Compromiser" after he convinced the government to make California a state. In order to compromise with the government, he spent most of his time traveling to Washington.

         

                Henry Clay was a truly remarkable gentleman and he is a legendary figure to every American. He worked 22 years in office to create a better America for us all even if he was not able to accomplish his ultimate desire of becoming the President of the United States. Kentuckians are proud he had the desire to reside in our beautiful state. May all Kentuckians and Americans alike, continue to keep Henry Clay's memories alive by visiting his lovely estate in the beautiful downtown Lexington. And may we remember him as we travel through the exquisite horse farms throughout the Bluegrass. Most of all, may we cherish him when we gather together at our beloved Keenland and Churchill Downs and sing our favorite song, "My Old Kentucky Home".