In 1902, a small farming community in the northwest corner of Santa Rosa County was named Jay after its firt posmaster, J. T. Nowling. Until oil was discovered in 1972, every family in Jay was connected to farming in one way or another. The Jay oilfield has grown to approximately 67 wells. Eleven are located within the town limits. Royalties from the oil have enabled the town to build a new city hall, fire department and recreation complex. The recreation complex has three ballfields, four tennis courts, and a large pavilion and a basketball court. The main business in Jay remains tied to cotton at the local gin.