Houston, Texas can proudly claim TWO important “Genealogical Gems” — Clayton Library, Center for Genealogical Research and its major supporter, Clayton Library Friends! The story of the current genealogical collection began in 1921 when a collection was housed in the Houston Lyceum and Carnegie Library, Downtown. In 1958 the Clayton family of Houston donated the William L. Clayton Mansion, 5300 Caroline Avenue, with stipulation that it be used as a public genealogical library. In 1968 the genealogical collection was relocated to the Clayton Mansion, which became the Clayton Library. In 1989 a new building opened adjacent to the mansion to the joy of genealogists everywhere. Since the City of Houston has a rather small budget each year for books and materials, in 1987 Clayton Library Friends was created to support Clayton Library.

Clayton Library Friends, a 501(c)3 organization in coordination with the manager of the Clayton Library, organizes and directs projects to support the acquisition of research materials for the library, to upgrade library facilities, and to enhance library services. Since Clayton Library is primarily a family history and genealogical research center, an important part of the Clayton Library Friends’ mission is the organization of programs that encourage family history research, provide specialized volunteer services for the library, and educate the public in the use of Clayton Library and its collections. Last year, CLF expended over $40,000 toward purchase of books and materials.

Family Tree Magazine has named Clayton Library again and again as one of the top ten genealogical research facilities in the U.S. Please visit Clayton Library, located in the heart of Houston’s museum district, where many museums and restaurants are within walking distance. All are welcome! Find more info at http://www.claytonlibraryfriends.org – Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ClaytonLibraryFriends and Clayton Library at www.houstonlibrary.org/clayton