John Granby Clay facts for kids

John Granby Clay was a British Army general who lived from 1766 to 1846. He had a long and brave career serving his country.

Starting His Army Life

John Granby Clay began his military career in 1782. He joined a Scottish army group as an "ensign." This was a very junior officer rank. After a short time, he was put on "half-pay," meaning he received less money because his group was smaller.

However, in 1784, he joined the 45th Regiment of Foot with full pay. He traveled with them to Ireland and then to the West Indies in 1786. By 1788, he became a "lieutenant," which is a higher officer rank.

Brave Actions in the West Indies

In 1794, Clay showed great bravery during a mission in Martinique. He was part of an expedition against the island. At a place called St. Pierre, he led a small, very brave group of soldiers. This group was called the "forlorn hope." They were the first to attack a dangerous enemy position.

Clay and a few of his men managed to reach the top of a hill behind the French soldiers. They surprised the French at daybreak. The French quickly retreated, leaving behind a brass cannon. Clay even wounded the French officer in charge. After this, he also helped capture Forts Louis and Bourbon, and the island of St. Lucia.

Serving Back Home

After his time in the West Indies, Clay returned to Britain. He bought a position as a captain in the 105th Regiment of Foot. Because of his experience, he quickly became the senior captain. In 1795, he was promoted to major. However, this regiment was soon combined with others, and he was again placed on half-pay.

From 1797 to 1799, he worked as a "brigade-major" for two different generals. This meant he helped them organize and manage their soldiers. During this time, he also spent some time in Ireland in 1798. He was there with a special group of soldiers called the brigade of guards. In 1800, Clay became a major in the 54th Regiment of Foot.

Adventures Overseas Again

Clay traveled with his battalion to several places, including Quiberon, Ferrol, and Cádiz. Later, he went to Egypt. He was involved in important battles there in March 1801. He also took part in the siege of Alexandria. During one battle, his horse was killed from under him!

For his brave service in Egypt, he received a special award called the Ottoman Order of the Crescent. He also received a gold medal from the Ottoman Porte, which was the government of the Ottoman Empire. After the war ended, his battalion was disbanded, and he was again placed on half-pay.

When the war started again, Clay joined the 3rd Buffs. He helped organize new army groups in London. In 1804, he became an assistant inspector-general for this force.

Keeping Order in Manchester

Later, Clay was promoted to lieutenant-colonel. He became an inspecting field-officer for the Manchester recruiting district. In May 1808, there were serious problems in Manchester. Many factory workers were upset. Clay was the senior military officer there. He managed to calm things down in just a few days with only a small number of soldiers. He received special thanks for his actions.

Four years later, in 1812, more problems happened. This time, a crowd attacked a factory and burned a house in Middleton. They even tried to shoot at the soldiers. But Clay's quick actions scared them. They stopped gathering in large groups. When more soldiers arrived, Clay was given command of a brigade in Manchester. He continued to help keep the peace.