Clayborne X. Johnson acquired his early education in the schools of Lee County and continued his studies in the Hazel Green Academy, from which he was graduated in 1908. Subsequently he spent one year as a student in Hiram College of Hiram, Ohio, and then entered the University of Kentucky, from which he was graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Science in 1913, while in the following year the same institution conferred upon him the degree of LL. B. From 1914 until 1923, save for the period of his service in the World war, he was successively engaged in law practice at Beattyville, Campton, Jackson and Booneville, Kentucky, and was accorded a gratifying clientage in recognition of his skill and ability in the work of the courts. 

It was on the 15th of May, 1918, that Mr. Johnson enlisted in the infantry of the United States Army and became trial judge advocate at Camp Sherman, Chillicothe, Ohio. He was commissioned second lieutenant on the 26th of September, 1918, and was discharged as such on the 15th of March, 1919. Thereafter he resumed law practice, in which he continued very successfully until 1923, when he abandoned the profession to identify himself with the Coneva Coal Corporation of Perry, Kentucky, in the capacity of sales manager. Since February, 1925, he has occupied the presidency of the corporation, maintaining offices in Lexington. 

On the 19th of March, 1923, Mr. Johnson was united in marriage to Cora J. Johnson, daughter of Thomas F. and Lucie Johnson, of Perry, Kentucky. Mr. Johnson gives his political allegiance to the democratic party and is a worthy exemplar of the teachings and purposes of the Masonic fraternity, to which he belongs. Because of his business ability, his genuine worth and his friendly manner, he enjoys the confidence and good will of all who know him.