Saturday, July 23, 2011

Henry Clay 1777-1852... He was photographed many times in the last 10 years of his life. Here are a few of the many faces of Henry Clay.

Henry Clay, what words are used to describe him. Statesman, diplomat, Congressman, Senator, Secretary of State and Presidential candidate. He did a lot, drank and lot and said he would rather be right than be President. He was a hero to Abraham Lincoln and a villain in the eyes of John Calhoun.

His last 10 years of life are pretty well chronicled in the lens of the early camera. Here are a few of the many photographs taken of this great statesman.





I think this is the best one of him. It is clear and he is very much in control of the situation.




An altered photograph





This is another good shot. He is close to a slight smile.





Not one of his better photographs




This photograph seems to capture the essence of the man. Although not in good shape it is a very in your face photo. In which he is looking right at those who look at the photograph.




Looking a little worn out in this picture.




Looking a little cranky in this one.




Here he poses with his wife of many years,Lucretia.