Clayton formed around a small depot for the North Carolina Railroad, known as Stalling's Station. The town incorporated in 1869. The construction of two major interstates, I-40 and I-95, opened all of Johnston County up to major transformation. From a predominately agricultural region in North Carolina's Coastal Plains, Johnston County's strategic location is making it a prime relocation site for residents and businesses. Interstate 40 connects the nation east to west, while Interstate 95 does the same north to south. Clayton and Johnston County sit on the crossroads of transportation.

North Carolina's superb Coastal Beaches lie two hours to the east, while the haunting Blue Ridge Mountains are three hours to the west. Clayton residents experience the security and serenity of small town living, while thriving cities expand around them. NC's capitol city of Raleigh lies fifteen minutes away. Durham, known as 'The City of Medicine', is a thirty-five minute drive. The internationally known Research Triangle is thirty minutes away. Clayton residents boast an abundance of opportunities for careers and education.

The fertile soil and enviable climate of Clayton make it an ideal place for research farms. The North Carolina State University, the NC Dept of Agriculture and the Research Triangle affiliates operate several laboratories around the town. Clayton experiences mild winters with a mere three inches of snowfall. Summers remain balmy and year-round temperatures average 61 degrees.

Clayton's temperate climate creates a golfer's Paradise. Three 18-hole golf courses lie within the town limits, the Riverwood Golf and Athletic Club, Pine Hollow Golf and River Ridge. Clayton provides numerous parks and playing fields for its townspeople. Clemmons Educational State Forest in Clayton offers a wealth of knowledge to its visitors. Numerous exhibits and 'talking trees' help educate the public about Carolina's intricate ecosystem. Rangers conduct classes and guided walks down the Forest's many miles of trails.

Census 2000 reported Clayton's population at 6,973. North Carolina census takers estimated population for 2003 as 11,293, showing a dramatic increase. Fifty-five percent of Clayton's townspeople have obtained college degrees. Located within a forty-mile radius are twenty-four colleges and universities. Census 2000 also showed that the median family income for residents was $3,000 a year more than the national average.

Clayton, North Carolina presents itself as an outstanding small town nestled in the midst of America's most vital and exciting region.

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