Episode 1 - Clay Kilgore

Clay Kilgore, Executive Director of the Washington County Historical Society, is redefining how history is experienced—blending storytelling, innovation, and a deep local passion to bring the past to life. From his early days discovering archaeology to leading immersive programs at the LeMoyne House, Clay has built a career around making history engaging and accessible. Whether through viral video series, interactive events, or unique traditions like the Running of the Wools, his work connects people to Washington County’s rich heritage in ways that are anything but ordinary.

A Life Built on Stories: Inside Washington County History with Clay Kilgore

When it comes to bringing history to life, few do it quite like Clay Kilgore. A Washington County native with a background as diverse as it is impressive—blacksmith, reenactor, lecturer, and now Executive Director of the Washington County Historical Society—Clay represents a rare blend of passion, creativity, and deep-rooted local knowledge.

Clay’s journey into history wasn’t exactly traditional. What started as a childhood fascination with fossils and a love for basketball eventually led him to a career in museums—where he realized he could stay connected to artifacts and storytelling without leaving his community. An internship at Meadowcroft Rockshelter ultimately set the course, inspiring him to pursue a life dedicated to preserving and sharing the stories that define Washington County.

At the heart of Clay’s work is a belief that history shouldn’t just be studied—it should be experienced. Whether it’s through the Historical Society’s exhibits at the LeMoyne House, interactive programming, or creative events like haunted history tours, Clay has made it his mission to transform history into something engaging, accessible, and fun. His popular “Laidback History” series, launched during the pandemic, connected thousands of viewers—many from across the country—back to their roots in Washington County through relaxed, story-driven storytelling.

One of the most fascinating stories Clay shares is that of Francis LeMoyne, a physician, abolitionist, and visionary whose impact on Washington County—and the nation—still resonates today. From operating a stop on the Underground Railroad to building the first crematory in the United States, LeMoyne’s legacy reflects the kind of bold thinking and conviction that helped shape the region.

But Clay doesn’t just preserve history—he actively reimagines how it’s told. Through new initiatives like the upcoming History Happens Here podcast and innovative uses of technology like augmented reality, he’s finding new ways to connect modern audiences with the past. His approach blends authenticity with creativity, ensuring that the stories of Washington County continue to evolve and reach new generations.

And sometimes, those stories take unexpected—and wildly entertaining—forms. Case in point: the “Running of the Wools,” a now-iconic downtown event featuring sheep races, community partnerships, and a healthy dose of humor. What started as a lighthearted idea has grown into one of the region’s most unique and beloved traditions, drawing thousands of attendees each year.

At the end of the day, Clay Kilgore isn’t just a historian—he’s a storyteller. And through his work, he’s helping Washington County not only remember its past, but celebrate it in ways that are anything but ordinary.