Clayton was baptized on December 9, 1632, in Boxgrove, England, the son of William Clayton and Joan Smith. He was a descendant of Robert de Clayton, who crossed over to England with William the Conqueror, as well as Thomas de Clayton of Clayton Hall.
He was one of the first judges of the city of Philadelphia as well as a President of the Provincial Council in 1682 and 1684. Clayton Park reflects the family"s heritage. Clayton became a carpenter by trade and a follower of the Quaker religion.
Penn Company Commissioner
In 1677, Clayton set sail for America, arriving in New York after being selected by Penn to serve as a commissioner.
He oversaw the clearance of Indian land titles acquired by Penn in present-day western New Jersey near Burlington. In 1681, his family removed to present-day Chester County, where Clayton had secured a 500 acre land patent.
Chester and Philadelphia judge
In 1681, he presided over the first Upland Court in Chester, and eventually was one of the first judges of nearby Philadelphia. Governor Council President
In 1682, he served as President of Governor Markham"s council, and in 1684 for Pennsylvania
Acting Governor of
In 1684, he was the acting Governor of, serving in that post over the next two years.
William"s brother Joshua accompanied him to America, settling in Delaware. Among his descendants are:
Thomas Clayton, United States. Senator from Delaware
Joshua Clayton, 10th Governor of Delaware
John M. Clayton, 18th United States. Secretary of State
Powell Clayton, 9th Governor of Arkansas
West.H.H. Clayton, United States federal judge.
