USS Ashland (LSD 48) is the second ship named in honor of Henry Clay’s estate that is located in Lexington, Kentucky. Clay’s 18-room mansion was designed by Benjamin H. Latrobe, the second architect who rebuilt our nation’s Capitol after it was damaged during the War of 1812. Henry Clay was known as “The Great Compromiser”, he was a successful lawyer as well as a respectable politician. Clay even influenced many promising future political leaders; such as Abraham Lincoln with his ideology and style. He held a prominent role in the War of 1812, and was instrumental in the development of the pre-Civil War in the United States. He also changed role of the Speaker of the House by making it the most powerful position it's known for today. Clay chose the name “Ashland” for the abundant amount of ash trees that were scattered throughout his property. Ashland was a safe haven where he regularly found happiness when times were tough. Throughout history, Ashland became a place for growth, sense of pride, but most of all it continues to inspire others who visit the now public historical house museum.