Clay Center was first settled in 1862. It was named from its position near the geographical center of Clay County. The first post office was established in Clay Center on July 3, 1862. Clay Center was located on the Chicago, Rock Island and Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads.
Becoming the President: In 1896, William McKinley was nominated to run for president for the Republican Party with Garret Hobart as his running mate. He was opposed by William Jennings Bryan who during his acceptance to the nomination gave his famous Cross of Gold speech where he spoke against the gold standard.
Canton (OH) Repository. William McKinley was President of the United States from 1896 until 1901, the fifth and last Civil War veteran to occupy the office. He began his military career in June 1861 as a private in the 23rd Ohio Infantry and after commendable service, ended it a brevet major.