Joseph Clay and Company was based on a partnership between Joseph Clay and Joseph Habersham. Joseph Clay (1741-1804) came to Savannah from England in 1760. He was a planter engaged in rice cultivation and a businessman associated with several firms throughout his career. He was a member of the Council of Safety, 1775; Deputy Paymaster General of the Southern Department, 1777-1782; delegate to the Continental Congress, 1778-1780; Treasurer of Georgia, 1782; and trustee for the establishment of the University of Georgia, 1785. Joseph Habersham (1751-1815), son of James Habersham, graduated from Princeton University and became a merchant in Savannah, first with his brother James and later with his cousin Joseph Clay. At the outbreak of the Revolution, he was a member of the Council of Safety and took part in some of the actions of the "Liberty Boys." He was involved with the party that arrested Governor Sir James Wright in 1776. He was commissioned by the Council of Safety as a Major of a battalion with the 1st Georgia Regiment, Continental Line in 1776 and rose to the rank of Colonel. He resigned his commission in 1778. He was a delegate to the Continental Congress, 1785-1786, Mayor of Savannah, 1792, and Post Master General of the United States, appointed by President George Washington in 1795.
From the description of Joseph Clay and Company papers, 1772-1776 (Georgia Historical Society). WorldCat record id: 76804422
