Clayton, Delaware
A Comprehensive Community Profile: Exploring History, Geography, and Development.
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Overview
A Delaware Town
Clayton is a town situated across Kent and New Castle counties within the U.S. state of Delaware. Primarily located in Kent County, it is recognized as part of the Dover, Delaware Metropolitan Statistical Area. As per the 2020 census, Clayton recorded a population of 3,961 residents.
Civic Structure
The town operates under a mayor-council form of government. The current mayor is Nick Smith. This structure facilitates local governance and community services, ensuring the town's administration is responsive to its residents' needs.
Naming Origins
The town bears the name of John Middleton Clayton, a distinguished figure in 19th-century Delaware. Clayton was a prominent lawyer and politician, whose legacy is honored by the town's designation.
Geography
Location and Coordinates
Clayton is geographically situated at coordinates 39°17′26″N 75°38′04″W. This precise location places it within the broader context of Delaware's landscape, contributing to its regional identity.
Area and Land Use
The town encompasses a total area of approximately 1.0 square mile (2.6 km2), comprising entirely land. This compact size influences its development patterns and community density.
Elevation
Clayton rests at an elevation of 46 feet (14 meters) above sea level. This moderate elevation is characteristic of the coastal plain region of Delaware.
Historical Significance
Historic Landmarks
Clayton holds several sites of historical importance, recognized for their contribution to the town's heritage. Notable among these are:
- Byrd's AME Church
- The Clayton Railroad Station
- Enoch Jones House
- St. Joseph's Industrial School
These locations are officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underscoring their cultural and architectural value.
Founding and Naming
The town was established and named in honor of John Middleton Clayton, a significant legal and political figure from the 19th century. His influence is foundational to the town's identity.
Demographic Profile
Population Trends
Clayton has experienced notable population growth, particularly between 2000 and 2020. The census data reveals a significant increase, reflecting the town's development and attractiveness as a residential area.
Socioeconomic Data (2000)
Analysis of the 2000 census data provides insights into the town's composition:
- Households: 499 total; 49.9% married couples, 15.2% female householder with no husband, 30.5% non-families. Average household size was 2.55.
- Age Distribution: Median age was 36 years, with 27.2% under 18 and 14.0% aged 65 or older.
- Income: Median household income was $43,462, and median family income was $48,000. Per capita income was $18,268. Approximately 7.0% of the population lived below the poverty line.
- Racial Makeup: Predominantly White (90.26%), with significant African American representation (8.09%). Other racial groups constituted smaller percentages.
Infrastructure & Services
Transportation Network
Clayton is strategically connected by key roadways. Delaware Route 6 traverses the town center as Main Street, facilitating east-west travel towards Smyrna and Blackiston. Delaware Route 300 runs through the southern part of town, connecting to Kenton and Smyrna, while Delaware Route 15 influences western access towards Middletown.
The town is also served by the Delmarva Central Railroad's Delmarva Subdivision line, which includes an interchange point with Norfolk Southern Railway, indicating its historical and ongoing connection to rail transport.
Utility Services
The town's Public Works department manages essential utility services for its residents:
- Electricity: Provided to approximately 1,200 customers, supported by membership in the Delaware Municipal Electric Corporation (DELCORA).
- Water: Supplied to 1,100 customers via four wells and two elevated storage tanks.
- Sewer: Serves 1,100 customers, utilizing eight pumping stations and contracting with Kent County for wastewater treatment.
External providers supply other services: Trash collection is managed by Waste Industries, natural gas by Chesapeake Utilities, cable by Xfinity, and telephone services by Verizon.
Educational Landscape
School District Affiliation
Students residing in Clayton are primarily served by the Smyrna School District. The district's comprehensive high school is Smyrna High School.
Historically, Clayton operated its own school district, which merged with the Smyrna Special School District on April 22, 1952. Subsequent reorganizations integrated the Kenton School District, solidifying the current district structure.
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References
References
- U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Clayton, Delaware
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page has been generated by an AI and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be exhaustive or entirely up-to-date.
This is not professional advice. The information presented here should not substitute for consultation with relevant professionals, such as local government officials, historians, or urban planners, for specific inquiries or decisions related to Clayton, Delaware.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.