Filson President Clay to Retire

The Filson Historical Society announced that President and CEO Richard Clay will retire, effective Dec. 31. The news came in an announcement to Filson members from Board Chair Ann Wells.

“Serving this institution, its members, its employees, and advancing historical knowledge has been an unparalleled privilege,” Clay said.

Under Clay's leadership, the Filson achieved notable milestones, including the complete funding of the Jewish Collection Archive endowment, expansion of digital resources, establishment of an African American History Initiative, and initiation of the Indigenous Peoples Project, which is aimed at documenting the narratives of Native American tribes in the Ohio Valley. 

Correspondingly, Wells announced Dr. Patrick Lewis as the Filson’s next President/CEO, effective January 1, 2025. Currently serving as Director of Collections and Research, Lewis’ transition, Wells wrote, “is the culmination of meticulous succession planning, ensuring seamless leadership continuity.”

Lewis holds a Ph.D. in history from the University of Kentucky, specializing in the Civil War and Reconstruction in Kentucky. Prior to joining the Filson, he led the acclaimed “Civil War Governors of Kentucky Digital Documentary Edition” and served as editor of the “Register of the Kentucky Historical Society.” Both the board and staff unanimously agree that Patrick is a strategic, knowledgeable, and mission-driven leader poised to steer the Filson towards continued success for generations to come, Wells said.

The Filson Historical Society has existed for more than 140 years, making it Kentucky’s oldest historical society. 

“The Filson stands stronger than ever, fortified by our commitment to our mission,” she wrote. “With this mission as our compass, we look forward to reaching new heights in the years ahead, knowing that our journey is made possible by your invaluable support.”