Abner Clay

Abner Clay was born in 1903 and died on October 17, 1979. He was known as a mathematical wizard. Abner Clay is the little boy sitting in between his parents/my great grandparents - Betty and Edward and his brother-Reuben and sister-Edwina are behind them).

My grandparents were committed to Jackson Ward by living on Clay Street, working on Clay Street, worshiping at Ebenezer Baptist Church (my grandmother - Margaret ‘Watkins’ Clay), and having membership into various civic associations (Historic Jackson Ward, Central Ward and Central Improvement). Abner Clay was president of Central Ward for nine years. The then residents of the Ward would joke that Clay Street was most deserving of his name. He was well received by political and business leaders for his active involvement in the community. He was also a member of The Theban Beneficial Club and The Crusade for Voters.

Abner Clay was ingenious as a stenographer, advancing to an accountant and later a comptroller with the then Southern Aid Life Insurance Company. He served on the firm’s Board of Directors. While at the firm, he was a pioneer in the advancement of insurance for Black people. Over 50 years, he devoted himself to restoring the heritage and character of the Ward.

Why the need for a Park in the Ward?

In the late 1960s/early 1970s, two black children were hit and killed by cars on Marshall Street because the only place for them to play at the time was in the street. Realizing that children needed a safe place to play in the Ward, my grandfather advocated for that by securing the resources (funds and equipment) to create the park. The ‘tot lot’/playground was created on September 30, 1974 (51 years old) in order to secure an immediate safe spot for children to play in. While other aspects of the park were added making the dedication on April 28, 1980.

Abner Clay was a person that was pleasant, cooperative, and gentle. He was that rose that touched everyone's hearts with his petals of warmth, sincerity, truthfulness, and wisdom. He was a true believer.

With Warm Regards,

Carol,

the youngest granddaughter, the 3rd generation of Clay’s along with my siblings and cousins

4th generation and 5th generation