Clay of Leicestershire

Clay of Leicestershire are documented from the 1200s.

1206. Latin translates - On the same day Astinus Clei the baker entered the guild and paid 4 shillings. (Records of the Borough of Leicester page 19).

1273. Glen Parva (Little Glen) Appointment of Geoffrey de Leukemore and John de Metingham to take assise of novel disseisin arraigned by Robert son of John del Clay and Beatrix late wife of John del Clay against Simon son of Henry de Wykingeston and others concerning a tenement. (Ref.- Calendar of Patent Rolls 3 Edw. 1).

1290. Nov. 22nd. Harby. Leicestershire. Letters for William  de Valeyns by reason of his weakness nominating Simon de Cleye his attorney for 5 years. (TNA. Calendar of Patent Rolls. 1281 - 92).

1296. Thomas de Cley de Melbourne witness to a Deed. (Leicester Record Office Ref.- DE221/2/2/104).

1328. Thomas del Clay. Title Deed -  used to hold one messuage at Medbourne. Lecestershire. (Leicester Record Office Ref.- DE221/2/2/34).

1300 - 1350. Grant of land in Misterton. Leicestershire. Witness William Cley of Misterton and others. (TNA Ref.- WARD2/41/146Q/87).

1353. Thomas de Clay. - One messuage formerly belonging to him called Kaunvilles Hall. Medbourne. Leicestershire. (Near Market Harborough) - (Leicester Record Office Ref.- DE221/2/2/53).

1379. Poll Tax. Robert de la Clay of Wymeswold taxe 4d and Johanne de la Clay of Wymeswold taxed 4d.- (The National Archives Ref.- E179/133/26/d).

1379. Poll Tax. Willemo Clay and his wife of Frolesworth taxed 4d.- (TNA Ref.- E179/276/41a).

1381. Poll Tax. Rogero del Clay fern de Oldfr'Armig of Melton Mowbray and his wife Claricia taxed 6 shillings.- (TNA Ref.- E179/133/34 + 29c).

1381. Poll Tax. Johannes del Clay (cult) of Melton Mowbray and his wife Secilia taxed 4 shillings.- (TNA Ref.- E179/133/34. m1. c2).

1381. Poll Tax. Rogeri del Clay (servo) of Melton Mowbray taxed 12d.- (TNA Ref.- E179/133.34. m1. c3).

1381. Poll Tax. Galfridas Clay of Cranoe taxed 2 shillings.- (TNA Ref.- E179/133/35 1d and E179/133/29.10d).

1386. Thomas Clay of Hadley co. Middlesex late of Cranoe co. Leicestershire husbandman leaves to William Turnour of Hadley his executor gift of all his goods and chattels. (TNA. Document Mtm 5d).

1393. Nov. 3rd. Covenant and agreement by John Eylesford regarding a number of places in Leicestershire and 70  tenants including John Clay. (TNA Ref.- CP25/1/290/57  number 253).

1393. John Clay and a number of others concerning land in Kirby Bellars and Melton. (TNA. Feet of Fines).

1404. July 1st. Inquisition at Melton Mowbray. John de Cley juror concerning lands of Robert Lescrope. Knight who died Dec. 3rd. 1403. (TNA Ref.- C137/43/25 mm 1-2).

1419. Feb. 7th.  Geoffrey Clay of Cranoe. Leicestershire and 11 others jurors at an Inquisition held at Market Harborough concerning land in Thorp Langton and Welham. (Ref.- C138/33/32 mm 4 5).

1421. May 5th.  Geoffrey Clay of Cranoe. Leicestershire and 11 others jurors  at an Inquisition held at Market Harborough concerning land at Hallaton. (TNA Ref.- C ).

1442. Robert Clay of Melton Mowbrey. Leicestershire. (Calendar of Close Rolls. Vol. 4. Hen. V1.) - British History Online.

1446. Dec. 17th. John Clay of Cranoe. Leicestershire and 14 others jurors at an Inquisition held at Leicester concerning land ownership. (Ref.- Inquisition  CER 1445 - 52 P2).

1447. Robert Clay of Melton Mowbray yeoman with others with force of arms broke into the house of Thomas Farnham at Wartnaby and carried  away his goods and chattels to the value of £40 and did other enorminities to his great damage and against the peace. They did not appear in court and the Sheriff was ordered to arrest them. H e returned but they were not found. (Ref.- Quorndon Records).

1447. Robert Clay a husbandman of Melton and others are implicated in the abduction of Ralph who was allegedly found at Villiers house in Brooksby. (Ref.- Records of Woodford Manor).

1454. Brother Richard minister of the house of St Robert near Knareborough of the Order of the Holy Trinity and ransom of captives who ar imprisoned for the faith of Jesus Christ by pagans, to Nicholas Clay and Emmota his wife. (Records of the Borough of Leicester page 261).

1471. Feb. 5th. Thomas Cley and John Cley and others. Writ delivered to the Sheriff of Leicestershire "That they will not do damage nor ill to anyone nor burn their houses". (TNA Ref.- Calendar of Close Rolls).

1475 - 1480. Thomas and William Clay of Leicester. (Ref.- TNA Chancery Records. C2/67/467).

1476. April 30th. Inquisition Post Mortem at Melton. The jury say that Robert Clay was formely seised of the manors of Eketylby and Syxtenby. (Quorndon Records File 52 no. 27).

1480-83. Robert Clay of Leicester defendant concerning messuage and land in Syleby - Court Case.- Keeble v Cley. (Ref.- TNA Chancery Records. C2/61/300).

1481. List of Traders. John Cley. Barker (Shouter of Events ?) son of Johannis Cley the first born of his father. (Records of the Borough of Leicester page 464).

1485. To the use of Thomas  and William Clay  messuages and land in Craynowe. Leicester. (TNA Ref.- Chancery Proceedings bundle 67).

1492. John Clay and wife Margery quitclaim 2 tofts and 126 acres in Barewell. (TNA Ref.- CP25/1/126/80 no.10.).

1522. Court Roll. Thomas Cley fined 4d carried off underwood and others fined 4d for same. (Quorndon Records page 184).

1524. Lay Subsidy. Thomas Cley of Thurcaston taxed on goods 12 pence. (TNA Ref.- E179/133/104).

1527 - 1534. Will of William Clay of Bisbrook. Rutland. Leicestershire. (Ref.- Northamptonshire, Rutland Calendar of Wills 1510 - 1652  book D).

1531. March 10th. Beaumanor Court Roll. Thomas Cley and 3 others fined 4d each are common trespassers and carried off logs from the woods of the lord without leave. (Quorndon Records page 191).

1533-38. William Clay mercer of Leicester son of William Clay land in Cranoe. Leicestershire. (Ref.- TNA -Chancery Records C1/763/345). 

1545 . Will of John Clay of Ravenstone. Wife Elizabeth, son Lawrence, daughter Cycely. (Ref.- Staffordshire Record Office).

1545. Will of Lawrence Clay of Ravenstone. Elizabeth Clay his mother. Anne Clay his sister. (Ref.- Staffordshire Record Office).

1589. William Clay plaintiff concerning the Manor of Wigston. (TNA Ref.- C78/73/7).

1621. Browne v Claye. William Claye and others defendants concerning property in Seagrave. (TNA Ref.- C3/302/60).

1628. March 22nd. Release to Thomas Cley of Leicester of a messuage in Sanvey Gate. Leicester for £12.13s. (Leics Archives Ref.- ID50/V111/121).

1633. Palmer of Leicester Pedigree. Anne Palmer first married Anthony Foulhorst and second to Dr Robert Clay. (Ref.- PC2023).

1640. Certificate of Residence showing John Clay to be liable for taxation in Leicester. (TNA Ref.-E115/811/95).

1640-1644. Records of Leicester Corporation. Chamberlains Accounts mentions John Clay and 9 others. (Leicestershire  Archives Ref.- BR111/2/82).

1645. Jonathan Clay age 17 born Leicester son of John Clay admitted to Christs College. Cambridge in 1645.

1647. January. Babingtons of Rothley Temple. Quitclaim by John Cley in consideration of £12 from Katherine Babington. (Leics Archives Ref.- 2D31/71).

1653. Aug.15th. Deposition by John Clay of Leicester. Beer Brewer. The original receipts for sums which he invested on the Irish adventure were lost at the plundering  by the late King's forces. He made no  assignment or profit on them. Signed by John Clay and certified by the Recorder of the Borough of Leicester. (Ref.- Calendar of State Papers relating to Ireland).

1655. Jonathan Clay. Rector of the Church of St Michael. Appleby Magna. Leicestershire. (Ref.- Bibliotheca Britannia. Antiquities in Leics. vol. 7).

1655. Admin of Alice Clay of Pickwell. Leicestershire. (Index to Admins in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury page 129).

1656. John Clay v Robert Johnson concerning tithes in the parish of Desford in Leicestershire. (TNA Ref.- E134/1656/Mich17).

1659. John Clay.- Brewer, became Mayor of Leicester. The book entitled "Roll of Mayors of Leicester" says he was probably descended from the Clay's of Derbyshire. He was apprenticed to his kinsman Alderman Rowland Pusey of Leicester brewer he was admitted free in the year 1623-4 and joined the corporation about 1630, elected an alderman 24th May 1646 and Mayor for the second time in 1672. He married at St Nicholas 21st September 1624 to Katherine Hunt by whom he had several sons and daughters. During his mayoralty King Charles the second was proclaimed when much feasting and rejoicing took place in Leicester in May and June 1660. A present of £300 in gold subscribed locally was forwarded to His Majesty, the mayor Alderman John Clay with several aldermen and the two chamberlains visiting London for the purpose of making the gift. Alderman Clay was buried at St Martins 26th March 1680 and his Will was proved dated 1679 at Leicester in 1690. (Ref.- Leicester Reference Library).

1660. Jonathan Clay. Rector of Heather Church, died 1681. (History and Antiquities of Leicestershire).

1661. Jonathan Clay of Leicester clerk buys messuage, tenement and closes called Ash Close and New Close in Countesthorpe and Blaby for £500. (Derbyshire Record Office Ref.- D3155/WH/275).

1661-62. Jonathan Clay. Rector of Heather. Leics. (Ref.- C of E. Database.LA.LC.V,ff 22-221 Exhibition Book).

1663. David Clay a common brewer of Leicester town ignored the law and not paying his Duty of Excise until he was imprisoned. The Commissioners judgement was to double his tax and discharge him. (Ref.- Calendar of Treasury Books. Vol. 1.). - British History Online.

1664. John Clay. Certificate of Residence showing him to be liable for taxation in Leicester. (TNA Ref.- E115/85/97).

1672. John Clay mentioned as second time Mayor of Leicester. (Annals of Leicester page 435).

1676. John Clay paid 8d rent on land in Houghton. Leicestershire. (Ref.- Calendar of Treasury Books Vol.5. 1676 - 79). - British History Online.

1678-88. Jonathan Clay. Rector of Cadeby. Leics. (Ref.- C of E Database. LA Register XXX1V).

1680. John Clay (Mayor of Leicester). Gave to the poor of Trinity Hospital 20 shillings yearly forever. (Probably an extract from his Will).

1680-85. Records of Leicester Corporation mentions David Clay and 9 others. (Leics Archives Ref.- BR111/2/90).

1681. Samuel Clay of Leicestershire admitted to Queens College. Cambridge in 1681.

1681. Inventory of Francis Clay of Leicester. (Ref.- PR/1/83/250 - PC2023 ).

1687. Sept. 9th. Lease of a messuage in Houghton on the Hill occupied by Zacharias Clay of Houghton on the Hill. Weaver and Mary his wife. (Leics Archives Ref.- 8D39/1150-1151).

1688. Dec. 27th. Mr John Clay. Alderman and twice mayor gave 10 shillings with others for a building renovation. (History of Leceicester page 326).

1690. William Clay of Drayton. Bookseller. (Ref.- PC2023).

1691. Sept. 25th. Bond of Thomas Timbrell of Ashby de la Zouch witness Jon Clay and 2 others. (Nottinghamshire Archives Ref.- DD/S/46/4).

1693. Deeds relating to property in Whetstone includes the Will of Richard Cley. (Leics Archives Ref.- 9D43/176/1-10).

1694. May 15th. Jon Clay and 2 others witness to a mortgage and lease Thomas Timbrell of Ashby de la Zouch to Josiah Harrison of Abbey Gate. Leicester. (Notts Archives Ref.-  DD/S/16/13).

1694. May 20th. Lease to Thomas Church of Sileby witness Jon Clay. (Nottinghamshire Archives Ref.- DD/S/22/20).

1694. Oct. 19th. Lease to Robert Ashpinshaw of Ashby de la Zouch witness Jon Clay and 2 others. (Nottinghamshire Archives  Ref.- DD/S/16/15).

1696. Court of Chancery. Clay v Clay. Plaintiff David Clay. - Defendant John Clay concerning a tenement in Leicester. (TNA Ref.- C6/308/45).

1701.  John Clay. Defendant in Court Case Redall v Coleman concerning the estate of William Brookes of Leicester. (TNA Ref.- C8/459/70).

1703. Benjamin Clay of Leicestershire admitted to Cambridge University in 1703.

1711. Inscription on the church bells at Earl Shilton - Thomas Clay made me 1711. (History and Antiquities of the County of Leicester).

1712. May 1st. Thomas Clay of Leicester signed an agreement with the Chapter of Southwell Minster for renewing the bells at a cost of £371. 14s. 11d.  (Ref.- PC2023).

1727. Will of Joseph Wilkins of Leicester leaves £10 to Mary Clay. (Notts Archives Ref.- DD/CH/17/51).

1742. Will of Richard Clay of Knipton. Rutland. Leicestershire. (Ref.- Archdeaconry Court of Leicester).

1753. March 23rd. Leicestershire Quarter Sessions. George Bates and John Clay sentenced to 7 years Transportation to Maryland for several felonies. (Leicester Record Office Ref.- QS13/2/18).

1754. Edward Clay. List of Electors for the Borough of Leicester. (Ref.- Leicester Poll Book).

1768. Thomas Clay of St Mary's Parish. (Ref.- Leicester Poll Book).

1778. An Act was passed for enclosing fields and commons in Sapcote. Samuel Clay and 10 others named as trustees and proprietors of the open fields and commons. (History and Antiquities of Leics).

1782. Sept. 7th.  A few days ago was married at St Margaret's Church in Leicester. Mr Clay hairdresser to Miss Brown. (Ref.- Leicester and Nottingham Journal Sept.7th  page 3).

1787. Thomas Clay born Long Clawson Leics. Served in the 5th Foot Regiment  and 35th Foot Regiment. Discharged age 31 after 12 years service. (TNA Ref.- WO121/2/247).

1788. May 17th. John Clay of Leicester. Stone Mason advertises flagstones, chimney pieces, mouldings, monuments, tombstones etc  selling on reasonable terms. (Ref.- Leicester Journal page 3).

1794 -1814. Samuel Clay born Hinckley served in Royal Artillery Drivers. Discharged age 47. (TNA Ref.- WO97/1219/237).

1800. September. Joseph Clay age 22 Born Leicester Registered for Military Service . Belfast. Northen Ireland.

1803. Charles Clay born Hinckley served in the 86th Foot Regiment. Discharged age 24 after 10 years service. (TNA Ref.- WO121/68/298).

1803. John Clay age 20 born Shepshead enlisted in the Royal Artillery. - Later deserted. (TNA Ref.- WO69/80C/765).

1805 - 07. Henry Clay. Mason. Leicester. - (Holdens Directory).

1810. April 5th. Bartholomew Hickling's Charity. Two houses in Loughborough conveyed to several trustees including Thomas Clay. (Ref.- Report of the Commissioners of Charities for the County of Leicestershire).

1812. April 27th. Letter to Exton Hall from Richard Clay of Stamford. Comments on a farm at Belmesthorpe. Rutland suitable for purchase. (Leicestershire Archives Ref.- DE3214/10810).

1812. May 21st. Newspaper.- Family Mortality at Wymeswold. Leics.- On Monday Feb.3rd age 42 Sarah wife of William Clay on the 9th age 14 Thomas son of William and Sarah Clay on the 10th aged 8 months Eli son of William and Sarah Clay on the 17th age 25 John Wood husband of Deborah sister to Sarah Clay on the 22nd age 80 William Hubbard father of Sarah Clay on the 26th age 19 William Clay son of William and Sarah Clay. (Taunton Courier).

1813. Jan.14th. Letter to Gerard Noel from Richard Clay  of Stamford giving opinion that Oddy's threat to publish exposure of Gerard's conduct is merely an attempt to get money from him.  ---  (Leicestershire Archives Ref.- DE3214/12151).

1813. May 13th. Letter to Gerard Noel from Richard Clay of Stamford regarding mortgage of the house and malting office purchased off Mr Clay. (Leicestershire Archives Ref.- DE3214/4270).

1813-15. Bills owed at Oakham to John Banton. - 9 people including Edward Clay. (Leicestershire Archives Ref.- DE3214/6705/1).

1815. Aug. 25th. To be sold 5 Navigation Shares in the Union Canal. Apply to Mr Clay at Hextall. Leicester. (Leicester Journal).

1815. Henry Clay. Stonemason. Millstone Lane. (Ref.- Leicester Directory).

1820. Aug. 20th. Will of Joseph Wilkins of Leicester leaves to his wife's sister Ann Robinson's daughter Mary Clay £10. (Notts Archive Office Ref.- DD/CH/17/51).

1822. S . Clay. Worsted Spinner. Leicester. - Mr S. Clay. Machinist.- H. Clay. Mason. (Pigot's Directory).

1822. April. Elizabeth Clay member of Hinckley General Baptist. Leicester.

1823-29. Account of Richard Clay for legal work undertaken for Sir Gerard Noel. (Leicestershire Archives Ref.- DE3214/4274).

1825. A man was found in the middle of Hinckley Road covered in blood. He was conveyed to the infirmary in a cart there were 2 wounds to the side of his head with an extensive fracture of the skull. He died about 4 o'clock the same day. The man whose name is James Clay lived at Hinckley and had brought a horse to Leicester belonging to a gentleman of the hunt. He was returning home in a post chaise and is supposed to have fallen out there from a door not being properly fastened and so stunned as to be incapable of getting out of harms way before another vehicle ran over him . The unfortunate man has left a wife and 4 children. We understand he was in the habit of drinking to excess and it is supposed that he was in that state when he fell out of the chaise.  (Newspaper Report).

1826. Samuel Clay. Freeschool Lane. Leicester. Machine Maker. Poll Book, and 1832.

1826. John Clay. Belgrave Gate. Leicester. Cordwainer. Poll Book, and 1832.

1827. John Clay age 18 born Leicestershire. Attestation Papers to serve in the Royal Marines at Portsmouth.- Discharged in 1848. (TNA Ref.- ADM157/375/267).

1827. Widow Clay. Stone and Marble Mason. Millstone Lane. (Leicester Directory).

1828. William Clay. Blacksmith. Sherrard Street. Melton Mowbray. (Pigots Directory).

1828. Samuel Clay. Worsted Spinner. Freeschool Lane. Leicester. (Pigots Directory).

1828. John Clay. Boot and Shoemaker. Belgrave Gate. Leicester. (Pigots Directory).

1830. Nov. 23rd. John Clay age 18 Born St Mary. Leicester registered for Military Service at Leicester.

1831. Dec.10th. Copy Will of Edward Clay late of Oakham. Merchant. (Leicestershire  Archives Ref.- DE1797/4/168/2).

1832. William Clay of Abbey Gate. Leicester. FWK. Poll Book.

1834. March 26th. Thomas Clay was a runner for the election at Brideswell, the newspaper reported he was involved in some problem. (Leicester Herald).

1834. Prisoner. Thomas Clay Stocking Maker. Crime. Embezzling cotton and woollen yarn the property of his employer. - Petition by Louisa Clay his wife for clemency as the family are dependant on his earnings. Memorandum - No grounds for reccomending the prisoner for a pardon. (TNA Ref.- HO17/109/108).

1835. Jan. 5th. Robert Clay 2 months in Gaol and 2 months  in Gaol  on April 6th. (County of Rutland Gaol and House of Correction. Oakham.  Leicester).

1836. Jan. 4th.  Robert Clay 2  months in Gaol. 3rd conviction. (County of Rutland Gaol and House of Correction. Oakham. Leicester).

1838. On Sunday at St Margarets was married Mrs Elizabeth Clay to Samuel Johnson both of this town This being the 4th she has taken for better or worse, her last spouse having been dead only 6 months. (Leicester Mercury).

1839. March 23rd. On Tuesday at St Martins Church Milicent eldest daughter of Mr Samuel Clay of Charles Street was married to William Stephens draper of Eastgates. (Leicester Chronicle).

1839. July. Joseph Clay age 12 was charged with stealing a quantity of milk from a cow in a field on Dane Hills.  At  5 o'clock in the morning Clay was seen milking the cow into a jug. He was sentenced to 2 months hard labour. (Leicester Mercury).

1840. Oct. 17th. Distressing Accident.- Thomas John Clay age 29 a labourer of East Shilton. Leicestershire was returning from London with his mother, sister and her 2 children on the outside of the Nottingham Express Coach. He stood up for the purpose of lighting his pipe when his foot slipped and he fell to the ground where the rear wheel passed over his neck. Verdict. Accidental Death. (Bedfordshire Mercury).

1842. May. Uppingham School Roll. Edward Keating Clay son of Rev. W. K. Clay of Waterbeach. Cambs left Oct. 1860 to St John's College Camb. B.A.1864. Vicar of Kimble. Bucks. died 1891. (Hathi Trust).

1843. Leicester Town Hall Court. J. Clay and 2 other youths were charged with breaking into a warehouse in Church Gate and stealing a quantity of leather. Clay being the youngest and another were apprehended and remanded till Friday. (Leicester Chronicle).

1843. April 8th. Leicester Police Court. Samuel Clay was charged with being drunk on the Coal Hill at 2 o'clock on Sunday morning in the company of 6 others. At Court he expressed his regret at his conduct and it being his first offence was discharged on paying costs. Two others were charged with attempting to release Clay from the custody of the Police Constable and were fined 10 shillings. (Leicester Mercury).

1844. Nov.2nd. Leicester Petty Sessions. John Clay of Loughborough and William Clay late of Coventry were charged with having willfully and deliberately broken one of the public lamps. Clay was Committed as an idle and disorderly person to the House of Correction with 3 months hard labour. (Leicester Mercury).

1847. Thomas Clay age 16 born St Martin. Leicester enlisted in the Royal Artillery 13 Battalion. Service Number 1526. (TNA Ref.- WO69/175/118. Folio 118).

1848. Leicester Quarter Sessions. Joseph Clay sentenced to 10 years transportation to Van Diemens Land. Australia. (Ref.- British Convict Transportation Registers.).

1848. James Clay late of Hinckley. Leicestershire. Baker is in the Gaol of Leicester. (Ref.- The Gazette Newspaper).

1851 Census. Thomas Clay age 21 born Leicestershire a soldier is a patient at the Royal Ordnance Hospital in Kent.

1851 Census. John Clay age 41 Dock Labourer  Greenwich Pensioner born Leicester living at Portsea. Hampshire with wife Hannah.

1855. May 5th. Town Hall Court. James Clay age 16 was charged with breaking into a carpenters shed on the lock side of Mr Ellis's factory near West Bridge and stealing a quantity of ropes. William Harris a marine store dealer said Clay came to him and sold him some ropes. Clay said he was working with boats and was entrusted by his master to sell the ropes. Clay was committed for trial. (Leicester Chronicle).

1857. Leicester Quarter Sessions. James Clay age 18 labourer was convicted of larceny as a servant stealing 5 shirts the property of William Fielding his master with previous conviction of felony sentenced to 4 years Transportation. Licence granted for release from Portland Prison in 1861. (TNA Ref.- PCOM3/85/8902).

1860. July 28th. Family Quarrel.- George Clay and Thomas Clay were charged with assaulting Isabella Hurst. She said her two brothers came to her house in Royal East Street. Leicester. George Clay beat her about the head very badly and they ran after Thomas Hurst. - Thomas Clay did not strike her but was present. George Clay said she had called his wife foul names and he struck her once with his fist. There being no evidence against Thomas Clay he was discharged. Alice Clay was charged  with assaulting Louisa Clay. She said when her daughter Mrs Hurst was struck she went to take the child out of her arms when the defendant got hold of her hair and tore her head dress off and pulled off her curls. She also pulled the Complainants hair. - The Magistrates fined George Clay 7s-6d. (Leics.Mercury).

1863. Jan. 8th. Mr E. M. Clay and Miss Clay teachers of the pianoforte and singing announce that their method of teaching ensures rapid progress also pianos tuned and repaired at Leicester Road. Loughborough. -  (Loughborough Monitor Newspaper).

1864. June 29th. Louisa Clay age 53 of Leicester convicted of stealing 8 rings and a swivel. Sentenced to 4 years Penal Servitude. (TNA Ref.- PCOM4/32/36).

1864. Dec. 26th. Thomas Clay married Fanny Baines at Coalville. Fathers Joseph Clay and William Baines.

1865. April 28th. Thomas Clay gamekeeper of Normanton charged 2 men with taking fish unlawfully from Normanton Back Brook.  Henry Clay son of the keeper said he resided at Normanton and saw the men on the bank of the brook with a fishing pole and implements, they ran off but Clay knew the men to be of Earl Shilton. The Court fined them £2-10s each with 12s-6d costs. (Leicester Journal).

1866. Commissions and Inquisitions of Lunacy. Robert Clay of Leicestershire and Rutland County Asylum. (TNA Ref.- C211/36B/19).

1867. Oct.26th. Court at Hinckley. Zadock Jacques was charged with assaulting Henry Clay in the parish of Normanton. (Leicester Chronicle).

1868. Dec. 25th. Hinckley Petty Sessions. John Woodward charged Henry Clay gamekeeper with assaulting him. He was in Blunts Park when the hounds were there when Henry Clay came up and without provocation collared him and threw him down. Clay had ordered him off the land but he had refused to go. - The Magistrates told Henry Clay he had no right to trip a man up although he was justified in stopping people from going across the grounds. They fined Clay 6 pence and costs. (Leicester Journal).

1870. Court of Chancery. Defendant. John Warden Clay solicitor employed in Leicestershire. (TNA Ref.- C16/640/F116).

1873. Mrs Clay of Worthington owner of 12 acres of land. (Ref.- "Return of Owners of Land 1873". Publication by John Lambert 1875).

1873. May 23rd. Borough Sessions at the Town Hall. Joseph Clay age 30 Shoe Finisher and Alice Clay age 37 a Hawker were charged with stealing a waistcoat and a pair of trousers the property of William Wood. Catherine Wood said she lived in Junction Road and Joseph Clay had lodged with her 5 or 6 weeks. The items had reappeared. There was no evidence and the Jury acquitted them. (Leicester Journal).

1873. Nov. 22nd. Joseph Clay refused to leave the Spittlehouse Hotel on Belgrave Road he was involved in a quarrel and a fight occurred and he was asked to leave. A man struck Clay and took hold of his collar and turned him out. He was fined 1 guinea. (Leicester Post).

1874. Oct. 9th. Henry Clay gamekeeper of Normanton caught 3 men mushrooming on private land. Clay put his gun to his shoulder and one of the men took hold of the gun and turned it up in the air and Clay told him to let go and there was a struggle. One of the men said if he was going to summons them for mushrooming they would summons him for carrying a gun after sunset. The Magistrate said he did not think that Mr Clay intended to shoot them. (Leicester Journal).

1875. May 22nd. Henry Clay of Normanton gamekeeper was on land at Marston near Shilton when he caught a poacher with dogs and a snare the case was heard in court and the poacher was fined 26 shillings and 23 shillings costs. (Leicester Chronicle).

1875. May 22nd. - On the 9th of May William Jacques was charged by William Clay gamekeeper of Normanton with trespass in search of game in Shilton. He was fined 6 pence. (Leicester Chronicle).

1876. May 27th. Leicester County Court. Rebecca Fellows v Thomas and Louisa Clay. An action to recover goods in possession of the Clay's. Rebecca Fellows a widow had until recent times lived at 264 Belgrave-gate. In November she went with her sister to fetch the goods and on opening the boxes a black dress and other things were missing. Mrs Clay was asked where the things were but she declined to answer. In Court Thomas Clay said the plaintiff was his niece and for 20 years he lived with her mother and after she died the daughters came and divided up the property. Louisa Clay sister to the plaintiffs mother admitted having in her possession a number of things. It was contended that the plaintiff had had all that belonged to her and the things valued at 18s to be retained by the defendants.(Leicsester Chronicle).

1878. Thomas Clay. Bag Hosier. Leadenhall Street.  (Wrights Directory of Leicester).

1878. John Clay. Chimney Sweeper. The Folly. Leicester Road. (Wrights Directory of Leicester).

1878. Thomas Clay. Bycicle Letter and Repairer. 6 Milton Street. (Wrights Directory of Leicester).

1878. Robert Clay. Weaver. Dannett Street. (Wrights Directory of Leicester).

1878. Thomas Clay. 264 Belgrave Gate. (Wrights Directory of Leicester).

1879. Dreadnought Seamans Hospital. S. T. Clay age 19 born Leicester. Ship "Abstains" from Grimsby. Admitted Dec. 2nd. Ailment confidential. Discharged Dec.31st. ( Ref.- National Maritime Museum. Greenwich. DSH/22).

1880. Thomas Hirst Clay. Bicycle Manufacturer. 260 Belgrave Gate. Leicester. (Wrights Directory of Leicester and Rutland).

1881 Census. Benjamin Clay age 13. Scholar. Born Leicester living at Bristol in Gloucestershire.

1881. Census. Leicester Union Workhouse. Inmate. William Clay age 28. Imbecile. Born. Borough of Leicester.

1881. Census. Melton Mowbray Workhouse. Inmate. Sarah Clay age 72. Domestic Servant. Born Wymondham. Leicestershire.

1889. Dec. 6th. Will of George Clay late of 28 Metcalf St. Leicester FWK  who died 8th Nov. 1889 proved by Alice Clay his widow. (National Probate Calendar).

1890. Feb. Aug. 30th.Market Bosworth Petty Sessions. The manager of Ellistown Colliery charged Joseph Clay and 3 other men with breaches of the Coal Mines Act. The men used a naked candle in the mine. Clay pleaded not guilty as he was a stall man in number 3 and had not seen the light. The Prosecutor said Clay was drilling a hole at the bottom of the stall and must have seen the light only 3 yards away. Clay was a responsible man and swore he had not seen the naked candle and he was aware of the danger of naked lights. The Magistrate said it was a very serious offence which might have caused a terrible disaster and fined all the men £1 each and costs. (Leicester Chronicle).

1896. New Memorial window with brass underneath in Heather church to the memory of Henry Slater Woolley dedicated by his sister Mrs Anne Gertrude Clay of Macclesfield. (Hathi Trust).

1899. Samuel Barton Clay late of 152 Berners St. Leicester boot and shoe manufacturer who died 4th Jan. 1899 probate was granted to Ada Hannah Clay. (Ref.- The National Probate Calendar).

1899. Aug.12th. The North End Flower Show held in a field at Woodgates. J. Clay won 14 prizes for flowers and vegetables. (Leicester Chronicle).

1903. Wrights Directory.- Thomas Clay listed at the Rising Sun Pub. 120  Wharf Street.  Leicester.

1908. July 13th. County Police Court. - Annie Hunt was summoned for being found drunk at the licensed premises of Thomas Clay at Thurmaston. She pleaded guilty and was fined 10 shillings. Thomas Clay age 52 licensed victualler was summoned for permitting drunkeness. PC Hall said he went into the Harrow Inn in plain clothes and saw the woman drunk. Clay said I did'nt think she was as bad as that and he had been a licensed victualler for 18 years without a complaint. Harriett Clay said she had served Hunt with some bottled beer in the morning and she came in again in the afternoon. The Bench fined Thomas Clay 40 shillings and 22 shillings costs. (Leicester Daily Post).

1911. Jan. 20th. South Wigston.- Funeral of Mr Frederick William Clay who died aged 28 the eldest son of Mr Alfred Clay of Glengarry. Old Evington.-  A well respected resident of South Wigston the mourners were Mrs Clay widow, Mr and Mrs Alfred Clay, Sydney Clay brother, Miss Clay and Miss Connie Clay sisters. Mr Clay was buried on the first anniversary of his wedding day. (Leicester Daily Post).

Leicester Hearth Tax. 1662.

Alderman Clay's Ward.  Both sides  of Sanvey Gate, High St. Bond St to High Cross.

John Clay gent 7 hearths.

Alderman Clay's Ward. Sanvey Gaate, Soar Lane from the North Gate  to North Bridge.

Francis Clay 1 hearth.

Leicester Hearth Tax.1664.

Alderman Deacons Ward. Bond St. High St to High Cross.

Mr John Clay 7 hearths.

Mr Townsends  North Gate Ward. 

Francis Clay 1 hearth not chargable.

Leicester Hearth Tax.1670.

Mr Clay's Ward. Total 81 Hearths.

The following transcripts should be checked with the original registers.

1552. June 7th. Alice Cley married Nicholas Allott at Melton Mowbray.

1573. Nov.16th. Isobella Cley married Robert Moringe at Melton Mowbray.

1579. Aug.17th. Thomas Claye married Martha Killyngley at Coston.

1589. Oct. 4th. William Cley married Jona Astell at Wigston Magna.

1589. Dec. 22nd. Thomas Clay married Elizabeth Hynman at Little Dalby.

1590. July 6th. William son of William Clay baptised  at Wigston Magna.

1602. Nov. 3rd. James son of Edward Clay baptised at  Breedon on the Hill.

1604. Jan. 13th. Mary daughter of Edward Clay baptised at Breedon on the Hill.

1604. Sept. 30th. John Clay buried at Breedon on the Hill.

1606. Oct. 5th. Maria daughter of Richard Clay baptised at Melton Mowbray.

1605. Nov.12th. Joan Cley married Mathew Modye at Hobey.

1606. June 2nd. Richard Claye married Frances Smarte at Melton Mowbray.

1608 / 9. Feb.12th. Henry Clay married Margaret Higgins at Quorndon.

1614. Jan. 19th. Frances Claye married Richard Atkinson at Melton Mowbray.

1617.  March 27th. John Cley buried at Leicester.

1624. Jan.16th. John Cley buried at  Wigston Magna son of Thomas Cley.

1624. Sept. 21st. John Clay married Katherine Hunt at Leicester.

1625. Jan. 12th. John Claye buried  at Desford.

1626. Nov.18th. Henry Clay married Mary Stones at Walton on the Wolds.

1629. Nov. 29th. Frances Clay married Thomas Weston at Quorndon.

1634. March 8th. Daniell son of John and Katherine Clay baptised at Leicester.

1640 / 41. Feb. 25th. Emma Clay married Thomas Read at Keyham.

1645 / 46. Feb.16th. John Clay married Margaret Ryder at Rothley.

Hinckley Parish Register. St Mary's. Leicester.

James Clay married Hannah Peet 30th Jan. 1804.

Jane daughter of James and Hannah Clay baptised 14th May 1807.

Thomas son of James and Hannah Clay baptised 12th July 1807.

James son of James and Hannah Clay baptised 4th March 1810.

Elizabeth daughter of James and Hannah Clay baptised 16th Feb. 1812.

Catherine daughter of James and Hannah Clay baptised 16th Dec. 1819.

Catherine daughter of James and Hannah Clay buried 23rd Dec. 1819.

1851 Census. Normanton Turvyle. Leicestershire.

Thomas Clay age 30  Gamekeeper  Born  Chilvers Cotton. Leicestershire.

Sarah Clay age  27  Wife                        Born  Astley. Warwickshire.

Henry Clay age  1   Son                           Born   Normanton. Leics.

1851 Census. Melton Mowbray. Leicestershire.

William Clay age 64  Shoeing Smith  Born  Southwell. Notts.

Elizabeth Clay age 56  Wife                   Born  Melton Mowbray.

Sarah Ann Wainer  age 14  Niece  Scholar  Born Melton Mowbray.

1851 Census. St Margaret's. Leicester.

Friday Street.

John Clay age 46  General  Labourer  Born  Leicester.

Sarah Clay age  51  Wife    Born  Glenfield. Leics.

Ann Moore  age  30  Daughter   Reeler  Born  Leicester.

Robert Moore  25 Son in Law  Wool Washer   Born Leicester.

John Clay age 11 Grandson  Bird Tenter  Born Leicester.

Thomas Moore age  2  Born  Leicester.

1851 Census. Hinckley. Leicestershire.

Church Lane.

Thomas Clay age 43         Stocking Maker  Born  Hinckley. Leics.

Mary Clay age  41  Wife    Stocking Maker  Born Hinckley.

Maria Clay age   22  Daughte r  Stocking Maker  Born Hinckley.

Charles Clay age  19  Son  Stocking  Maker  Born  Hinckley.

Elizabeth Clay age  16  Daughter  Stocking Maker  Born Hinckley.       

Mary Clay age  14   Daughter  Stocking Maker  Born  Hinckley

Thomas Clay age 12  Son  Winder  Born Hinckley.

1851 Census. St Margaret's. Leicester.

Church Gate.

George Clay age 75  Widower  FWK   Born  Leicester.

1851 Census. St Margaret's. Leicester.

Canning Street.

William Clay age 48  Gardener  Born  Leicester.

Ann Clay age  55  Wife                   Born  Sutton  Cheney. Leics.

Fanny Clay age  13  Daughter   Seamstress  Born  Leicester.

1 Lodger.

1851 Census. St Mary's. Leicester.

Bonners Lane.

Thomas Clay age 49  Warp Hand  Born  Leicester.

Louisa Clay age  44  Wife                     "          "        "

George Clay age  19  Son  Warp Hand  Born Leicester.

Isabella C. Clay age 17  Daughter  Fancy Knitter  Born  Leicester.

Jaques Edward Clay age 13 Son  Winder  Born  France.

Jean Baptiste Clay age 11 Son Winder  Born  France.

Joseph E. J. Clay age 9 Son  Winder  Born  France.

Sarah A. O'Conner Clay age 3 Daughter  Born  Leicester.

1861 Census. Whitwick. Leicestershire.

Club Row.

Joseph Clay age 45 Coal Miner     Born  Heanor. Derbyshire

Salina Clay age  45 Wife                  Born  Ilkeston. Derbyshire.

Joseph Clay age  24  Son  Coal Miner   Born   Ilkeston.  Derbyshire.

Thomas Clay age  17  Son  Coal Miner  Born  Whiwick. Leicestershire.

Jemima Clay age 12  Daughter. Scholar. Born  Coalville. Leicestershire.

Henry Clay age   10  Son   Scholar  Born  Coalville. Leics.

Caroline Clay age 10  Daughter  Scholar  Born  Coalville. Leics.

Jacob Clay age  8 Son  Scholar Born  Cinderhill.  Notts. 

1881 Census. Hugglescote and Donington. Leicestershire.

Melbourne Street

Thomas Clay age  37 Coal Miner             Born  Whitwick. Leicestershire.

Fanny Clay age  35  Wife                              Born   Uppingham. Rutlandshire.

Albert G. Clay age 15 Son                            Born  Coalville. Leicestershire.

Thomas W. Clay  age 12   Son                     Born  Coalville.

George H. Clay  10   Son   Scholar            Born  Coalville.

Sarah Clay age  8  Daughter  Scholar     Born  Coalville.

Frederic Clay age  7  Son        Scholar      Born  Coalville.

Fanny Clay age  5  Daughter   Scholar   Born  Coalville.

Roland O. Clay age  4  Son                            Born  Coalville.

Alice M. Clay age  2  Daughter                   Born Coalville.

Harold H. Clay age   0  Son                            Born  Coalville.   

1911 Census. Leicester.

William Clay age 29  Machine Operater - Sole Shoehand. Born Leicester.

Kate Clay age   28  Wife  Born Leicester.

Lucy Clay age   5   Daughter  Scholar  Born Leicester.

Evelyn Clay age   4   Daughter  Scholar  Born Leicester.

Elsie Clay age  3   Daughter                          Born Leicester.

Edith Clay age  0   Daughter                         Born Leicester.

Isaac Clay age  58  Father.  Shoehand Finisher.  Born  Macclesfield. Cheshire.

Elizabeth Clay age 52  Mother.  Hosiery Hand Stitcher. Born  Staverton. Northamptonshire.