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.
William McKinley, a member of the Republican Party, took office as the 25th President of the United States on March 4, 1897 at age 54. McKinley served in office for 4 years 26 weeks and was assassinated while president.He was born in Niles, Ohio and received an education from Allegheny College.illiam McKinley, a member of the Republican Party, took office as the 25th President of the United States on March 4, 1897 at age 54. McKinley served in office for 4 years 26 weeks and was assassinated while president. He was born in Niles, Ohio and received an education from Allegheny College.