Joseph Clay
1769–1811 (age 42)
Merchant
Biography
Merchant Joseph Clay navigated the commercial currents of Philadelphia during the young nation’s formative years, trading goods and building relationships that supported both local prosperity and the wider Atlantic economy. His firm dealt in supplies that were vital to households and enterprises, bearing the hallmarks of reliability and civic pride.
He also engaged in civic service, sharing the perspective of a business leader who believed in the balance of commerce and public responsibility as the republic took shape.