Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate

Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate, beloved home of American statesman Henry Clay (1777-1852) The museum is closed in January.
(539)

With a historic mansion filled with an incomparable collection, original outbuildings, gardens, official arboretum, historic paths, museum store, and seasonal café, Ashland offers an experience of wonder and discovery. Highly rated guided tours focus on various aspects of the estate’s history: Henry Clay and his legacy, slavery at Ashland, and the women of Ashland. Founded in 1926 and operated as

a nonprofit 501(c)(3) by the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, the museum opened its doors to the public in 1950. From Henry Clay’s lifetime to ours today, Ashland has been a community and national treasure.

Celebrate Black History – Free Day at Ashland thanks to 250lexky!Join us on Monday, February 17, for a special FREE day ...
01/20/2025

Celebrate Black History – Free Day at Ashland thanks to 250lexky!

Join us on Monday, February 17, for a special FREE day at Ashland as we honor the Black men, women, and children whose labor shaped this historic site.

Walk through the estate and view the spaces where generations of Black individuals lived and worked. Discover their previously untold stories through archival fragments and art installations, including powerful works by Yinka Shonibare CBE and local artists.

Tours run throughout the day but space is limited, so reserve your spot here: bit.ly/bht2025

Ashland is celebrated as the home of Statesman Henry Clay and his descendants. But the luxury they enjoyed came at a sig...
01/16/2025

Ashland is celebrated as the home of Statesman Henry Clay and his descendants. But the luxury they enjoyed came at a significant cost—built on the labor of Black men, women, and children, first as enslaved individuals, later as laborers.

This February, join us for "When Reason Sleeps, Brutality Walks Free", exploring their stories through powerful art by Yinka Shonibare CBE and local artists, archival fragments, and the voices of those who labored here.

Don't miss this chance to discover these powerful stories and honor their legacy. More information can be found at https://bit.ly/ash225

Missing Ashland while we're closed? 🌿 Stop by Artists' Attic for “Ashland Impressions,” an exhibit by the Plein Air Pain...
01/10/2025

Missing Ashland while we're closed? 🌿 Stop by Artists' Attic for “Ashland Impressions,” an exhibit by the Plein Air Painters of the Bluegrass! 🎨

📆 January 10 - February 27

Discover stunning works of art inspired by Ashland’s beauty—on display for a limited time! 🎉 Plus, 10% of all Ashland painting sales will be donated to support Ashland. Don’t miss this chance to experience Ashland in a whole new light—and show your love for this historic treasure! 💚

Ashland shines even in the frost ✨🕯️❄️ Stay warm out there! 💙
01/09/2025

Ashland shines even in the frost ✨🕯️❄️ Stay warm out there! 💙

👀 Looking for a fun and meaningful way to get involved in your community? 🌳🏛 Ashland’s volunteers are the heart of our o...
01/07/2025

👀 Looking for a fun and meaningful way to get involved in your community? 🌳🏛 Ashland’s volunteers are the heart of our operations—helping with everything from leading tours and operating the museum store to maintaining our beautiful grounds and preserving history. 🌟

Join us on February 8th to discover all the exciting ways you can volunteer at Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate! Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking to meet new people, there’s a place for you here. 🍁

📅 Date: Saturday, February 8th, 10am
📍 Location: Ashland, 120 Sycamore Rd, Lexington, KY
✒️ RSVP: https://forms.office.com/r/D9PE2CNJNQ

😀 Come see how you can make an impact while being part of something truly special!

This week, as we reflect on President Jimmy Carter’s incredible legacy while he lies in state, we’re reminded of another...
01/07/2025

This week, as we reflect on President Jimmy Carter’s incredible legacy while he lies in state, we’re reminded of another statesman who left an indelible mark on our nation—Henry Clay.

Did you know? Henry Clay was the first American to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in 1852, a tradition reserved for the most influential leaders in our history.

From Clay’s vision for unity and compromise to Carter’s dedication to peace and service, we honor these men who shaped our nation’s story. ✨

🎉🍾Happy New Year from Ashland! 🍾 🎉As we welcome 2025, we reflect on the incredible memories made at Ashland this past ye...
01/01/2025

🎉🍾Happy New Year from Ashland! 🍾 🎉

As we welcome 2025, we reflect on the incredible memories made at Ashland this past year and look forward to an exciting year ahead filled with new initiatives and even more growth! 💚

⏰We will be closed to the public for all of January & February, with select openings in February for our Black History Tour (more details to come). We'll reopen Tues-Sat in March!

🌟 Thank you for being such an important part of Ashland - we can't wait to welcome you back soon! 🌟

🕎✨ Happy Hanukkah from Ashland! ✨🕎As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, we reflect on the values of hope, resilience, ...
12/27/2024

🕎✨ Happy Hanukkah from Ashland! ✨🕎

As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, we reflect on the values of hope, resilience, and community that Hanukkah represents. May this season bring you and your loved ones peace, joy, and warmth. Thank you for being part of our community! 🌟

🎄✨ Merry Christmas from Ashland! ✨🎄Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and the warmth of family and friends. As we ...
12/25/2024

🎄✨ Merry Christmas from Ashland! ✨🎄

Wishing you a day filled with love, joy, and the warmth of family and friends. As we reflect on this holiday season, we’re grateful for the support of our community and the shared memories created here at Ashland.

May your day be as magical as the lights on the estate and as rich as the history we preserve together. ✨

❄️The first day of winter has arrived at Ashland! Yesterday gave us a magical blanket of snow, transforming the grounds ...
12/21/2024

❄️The first day of winter has arrived at Ashland! Yesterday gave us a magical blanket of snow, transforming the grounds into a scene straight out of a storybook. ✨❄️ Bundle up and come walk in a true winter wonderland as history meets nature. 🧣🧤

✨🕯 Last Chance for Candlelight Magic! 🕯✨Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the enchantment of Ashland by Candleli...
12/14/2024

✨🕯 Last Chance for Candlelight Magic! 🕯✨

Don’t miss your opportunity to experience the enchantment of Ashland by Candlelight and decorated for the holiday!🎄❄️ TONIGHT is your FINAL chance to walk through the beautifully illuminated mansion, soaking in the warm glow of history and holiday spirit.

Tours begin at 5:30, with last entry at 7pm. Purchase tickets here: https://bit.ly/lh101224

⏰ Spaces are limited, so grab your tickets NOW and make this holiday season unforgettable. 🎄🕯❄️

🖋 On December 24, 1814, Henry Clay and four fellow American diplomats signed the Treaty of Ghent, officially ending the ...
12/10/2024

🖋 On December 24, 1814, Henry Clay and four fellow American diplomats signed the Treaty of Ghent, officially ending the War of 1812. Clay’s unwavering stance ensured no concessions to the British, solidifying the United States’ standing on the global stage.

This December, Ashland invites you to explore our remarkable collection of artifacts from this historic event, including:
🌟 The coat and sword Henry Clay wore during the negotiations
🌟 His place card from the negotiating table
🌟 Two paintings he won during spirited card games with his fellow diplomats

Come to Ashland and celebrate the 210th anniversary of this pivotal moment in American history!

Its officially Christmas at Ashland! 🎄Thanks to everyone who made tonight magical! ✨Make sure to come out and see the li...
12/07/2024

Its officially Christmas at Ashland! 🎄Thanks to everyone who made tonight magical! ✨Make sure to come out and see the lights and take a candlelight tour! 🕯️

Wow! So excited for this and all our other vendors! See y’all tomorrow!
12/06/2024

Wow! So excited for this and all our other vendors! See y’all tomorrow!

🎄🌟 A Special Holiday Addition to Ashland! 🎄We’re thrilled to share the return of a spectacular drawing featuring the thr...
12/03/2024

🎄🌟 A Special Holiday Addition to Ashland! 🎄

We’re thrilled to share the return of a spectacular drawing featuring the three eldest children of Henry Clay’s son, James B. Clay. Once displayed at Ashland, this cherished artwork is the only piece in our collection that depicts the children of James.

After a year in conservation, this stunning piece is back and better than ever—and now on exhibit! Its exceptional condition and historical significance make it a must-see this holiday season. 🎨

Be among the first to view this remarkable artwork at one of our upcoming Candlelight Tours! 🕯 https://bit.ly/lh101224

🎄✨The Countdown is On! ✨🎄We’re just a few days away from A Kentucky Christmas at Ashland! Join us this Saturday, Decembe...
12/02/2024

🎄✨The Countdown is On! ✨🎄

We’re just a few days away from A Kentucky Christmas at Ashland! Join us this Saturday, December 7th, for a day of holiday cheer!
🎁 Shop Local at our Holiday Market featuring Kentucky’s finest vendors
🎼 Enjoy Carolers from The Lexington Theatre Company
🎅 Grab a sELFie with Santa

📆 Mark your calendars and bundle up—you don’t want to miss this magic! 🧣🧤

🎄🌟 Ever Wonder What They Wore for the Holidays? 🌟🎄Get a glimpse of holiday fashion from the days of Henry Clay! 👗 These ...
11/29/2024

🎄🌟 Ever Wonder What They Wore for the Holidays? 🌟🎄

Get a glimpse of holiday fashion from the days of Henry Clay! 👗 These historic dresses, now on display, showcase the elegance of Ashland’s past and are a must-see during our Candlelight Tours. 🕯

Step into history, see the mansion decked out in holiday splendor, and experience the charm of Ashland this season. Reserve your spot now—tickets are going fast! December 7, 12, or 14. https://bit.ly/lh101224

🦃 Gobble Gobble 🦃 Ashland is closing today at 12:30pm and we will be closed all day Thanksgiving Day. Don't fret - we're...
11/27/2024

🦃 Gobble Gobble 🦃

Ashland is closing today at 12:30pm and we will be closed all day Thanksgiving Day.

Don't fret - we're open normal hours Friday! 🌟

Address

120 Sycamore Road
Lexington, KY
40502

Opening Hours

Tuesday 10am - 4pm
Wednesday 10am - 4pm
Thursday 10am - 4pm
Friday 10am - 4pm
Saturday 10am - 4am
Sunday 1pm - 4pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Videos

🎤 Ready for a musical journey? Sistah LaLa & Friends are bringing their powerful voices and captivating performances to Ashland! Enjoy an afternoon of soulful tunes and good vibes onthe historic grounds. September 8 at 3pm - perfect for a picnic date or a gathering with friends. ✨ #LexingtonEvents #eventsatashland #outdoormusic #lexingtonky @lexarts

Jazz on the Lawn Sept. 1, 2024
Jazz on the Lawn Sept. 1, 2024

Our very own Jim Clark recently sat down with FOX 56 News to share all the details about this Sunday’s Jazz on the Lawn at Ashland! 🌳✨ Sunday September 1st from 5:30-7:30pm Join us for an unforgettable evening filled with live music from Lee Carroll's C The Beat and Tripp Bratton’s M'Power Rhythm, good vibes, and community spirit. Whether you're a jazz lover or just looking for a fun outdoor event, this is not to be missed! Snag one of our exclusive picnic blankets, grab some friends, and let’s celebrate the end of the summer together. See you there! 🎷🌿 #JazzOnTheLawn #AshlandEstate #LiveMusic #LexingtonEvents #Community

Check out the recent sit down with FOX 56 as Jim Clark, Executive Director for the Henry Clay Memorial Foundation, and Shea Brown, Project Director for Digital Access Project (DAP), discuss upcoming events and programs related to Ashland, The Henry Clay Estate's commemoration of Black History Month. Several events, including a genealogy workshop, open house, and new tour, are planned. Learn more at: https://henryclay.org/events/

Wake Up With Ashland - Kentucky Derby 2023
Wake Up With Ashland - Kentucky Derby 2023

It is Kentucky Derby time again in the Bluegrass and Ashland is using the opportunity to “Wake Up with Ashland!” We’ll are talking about the ONLY Derby Winner the Clay family owned AND the two African American horsemen instrumental in his victory. Stay tuned for this year’s Oaks/Derby report to see which of Clay’s mares are running and learn their connection to another very important Derby winner! Please ask questions in the comments and they will be answered live on the stream.

Peonies blowing in the breeze. #ashland #henryclay #peonies #garden #spring #breeze

Springtime is the most glorious time at Ashland. #ashland #henryclay #spring #dogwood #blossoms #breeze

Springtime at Ashland. Spring Beauty in full bloom.

Today was the 1st of 3 Volunteer Training & Orientation sessions. Don't worry if you couldn't make it! Contact Mary and join us for the next two: Saturdays, Feb. 19th and 26th 10AM-NOON Mary Broach [email protected] 859-266-8581 x205

Become An Ashland Volunteer! If you enjoy history and are a curious, life-long learner, if you enjoy engaging with people, and if you would like to share your knowledge, skills, and experiences with others, volunteering at Ashland might be for you. Ashland opens to the public again in March so now is a great time to get involved. Volunteer Orientation & Training: 3 Saturdays, February 12, 19, 26 10 am-Noon Ashland mansion Ashland’s volunteers are the public face and at the heart of everything we do: leading tours, greeting guests in the museum store, and working on the grounds. Join like-minded people involved in this important work sharing the history and significance of Ashland with visitors from around the world. Contact Mary Broach if you are interested: [email protected] 859-266-8581 x205 *Masks are required in the house. Ashland is taking all precautions against COVID with masking and limiting numbers of people in the mansion. #ashland #henryclay #volunteer #volunteering #museum #docent #tours #store #grounds #history #volunteers #lexington #Kentucky 13m

Become An Ashland Volunteer! If you enjoy history and are a curious, life-long learner, if you enjoy engaging with people, and if you would like to share your knowledge, skills, and experiences with others, volunteering at Ashland might be for you. Ashland opens to the public again in March so now is a great time to get involved. Volunteer Orientation & Training: 3 Saturdays, February 12, 19, 26 10 am-Noon Ashland mansion Ashland’s volunteers are the public face and at the heart of everything we do: leading tours, greeting guests in the museum store, and working on the grounds. Join like-minded people involved in this important work sharing the history and significance of Ashland with visitors from around the world. Contact Mary Broach if you are interested: [email protected] 859-266-8581 x205 *Masks are required in the house. Ashland is taking all precautions against COVID with masking and limiting numbers of people in the mansion. #ashland #henryclay #volunteer #volunteering #museum #docent #tours #store #grounds #history #volunteers #lexington #Kentucky

Become An Ashland Volunteer! If you enjoy history and are a curious, life-long learner, if you enjoy engaging with people, and if you would like to share your knowledge, skills, and experiences with others, volunteering at Ashland might be for you. Ashland opens to the public again in March so now is a great time to get involved. Volunteer Orientation & Training: 3 Saturdays, February 12, 19, 26 10 am-Noon Ashland mansion Ashland’s volunteers are the public face and at the heart of everything we do: leading tours, greeting guests in the museum store, and working on the grounds. Join like-minded people involved in this important work sharing the history and significance of Ashland with visitors from around the world. Contact Mary Broach if you are interested: [email protected] 859-266-8581 x205 *Masks are required in the house. Ashland is taking all precautions against COVID with masking and limiting numbers of people in the mansion. #ashland #henryclay #volunteer #volunteering #museum #docent #tours #store #grounds #history #volunteers #lexington #Kentucky

Become An Ashland Volunteer! If you enjoy history and are a curious, life-long learner, if you enjoy engaging with people, and if you would like to share your knowledge, skills, and experiences with others, volunteering at Ashland might be for you. Ashland opens to the public again in March so now is a great time to get involved. Volunteer Orientation & Training: 3 Saturdays, February 12, 19, 26 10 am-Noon Ashland mansion Ashland’s volunteers are the public face and at the heart of everything we do: leading tours, greeting guests in the museum store, and working on the grounds. Join like-minded people involved in this important work sharing the history and significance of Ashland with visitors from around the world. Contact Mary Broach if you are interested: [email protected] 859-266-8581 x205 *Masks are required in the house. Ashland is taking all precautions against COVID with masking and limiting numbers of people in the mansion. #ashland #henryclay #volunteer #volunteering #museum #docent #tours #store #grounds #history #volunteers #lexington #Kentucky

Shortcuts

Share