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Sometimes too much water will give the same symptoms as when the plant needs water. The roots can get waterlogged and not able to uptake the water and nutrients. It could be clematis wilt, which is common in clematis.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/clematis-wilt-treatment.htm

It just sounds like they have gone through so much stress that they have not had a chance to grow back any roots lost! You may have to care for them inside until they are healthy enough to move outside.

This article will help you to care for them in container:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/growing-clematis-in-pots.htm

As long as the Clematis did not die of disease, then it can be fine to replace it with another. This is the same concept for roses.

Here are some articles that will help you to grow Clematis:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis

In your area, it is best to start them outdoors. Like with your peony seeds, they will require several freeze/thaw cycles in order to germinate. They will take anywhere between one and three years to germinate. You can do this in one year with your freezer, just like with your peony seeds.

Once you do get them germinated, this article will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/growing-clematis.htm

Lime won't help it to bloom, but it can help correct pH, calcium, and magnesium issues. Fertilizers for blooming tend to be high in phosphorus and potassium.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/getting-clematis-to-flower.htm

You are in zone 6 or 7, and Olympia is hardy to zone 4 so you should be able to keep it outside over winter in your container. (Two hardiness zones buffer for containers) For extra protection, pile some bags of leaves around it and park it close to the house, preferably on the south side.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/vines/clematis/clematis-winter-preparation.htm