Enjoy with cold beer, Cowboys: Scrape shit from boots before entering (sign), Official Capital Designations - Texas State Library. The Santa Fe Railroad brought a lot of foot traffic into Clifton. The 11th Bosque Tour de Norway will be held on May 20, 2023. Known as the Norwegian Capital of Texas, Clifton and the surrounding area was settled by Norwegian and German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Johan Reiersen arrived in 1845 and settled Henderson County. The Norwegian American. Visitors to Clifton may explore the vast collection of pioneer Norwegian articles at the Bosque Memorial Museum, or take the Cleng Peerson Memorial Highway west to the Norse Historic District. The Bosque Tour De Norway Bike Rally, May 15,2021. Activities: Folk dancing, including Leikarring folk dance group On Saturday, December 3rd, tourists can acquire free copies of an event guidebook at local After doing the Norwegian Country Christmas Tour stop by the Clifton Civic Center for an Authentic Norwegian Lunch. The Rock Church remains a popular location for artists and weddings, seemingly unchanged after more than a century. Another historic church in the district is St. Olafs Kirke, which was built in 1886 to better serve the needs of Our Saviors congregation as the Norwegian colony grew to the west. School Gym. The Red Caboose tasting room in Clifton offers sweet and dry wine tastings, along with small bites and regularly occurring live entertainment. Held annually the first weekend of December (Saturday), the event offers a weekend of history and fun for those wishing to fully experience The Norwegian Capital of Texas. He came to the New World as a result of hardships in his native land, including the high price of farmland, the high number of drownings among fishermen, and drought. 1330, Senate Resolution 704, 75th Legislature, Regular Session (1997) Popular stops often include the 1850s-era Questad and Ringness homes. WebClifton was also designated a Cultural District by the by the Texas Commission on the Arts and the State of Texas in 2011. 17: Registration details: bikereg.com. During the 4th of July celebration, its the best place to catch the fireworks. Channel your inner artist on your next trip to Clifton and visit Workshop 219, a local business that offers paint parties, art classes for all ages and levels of experience, as well as open studio time! When the Norwegian settlers came to Bosque County in 1857, they were under the leadership of the great Cleeng Pearson, The Father of Norse immigration to the U.S., and a man much revered in Minnesota, and Ole Knutson (or Knudson). The Questad House, located next to the Our Saviors Church, was the home of Carl Questad, a leader of the early Norwegians. The sloop Restauration (also spelled Restoration) was featured on a United States postage stamp honoring the centennial in 1925. Clifton, TX This is the only public pool in Bosque County, so call beforehand if you are visiting from out of town (its likely only available to residents of the county). google_ad_channel =""; Housed in a magnificent 3-story building that was the former Main Hall of Clifton College, the organization offers a local outlet for visual and performing arts unparalleled in a city of Cliftons size. Immigration from Norway to Texas started in the 1850s-1860, led by Cleng Peerson (1782-1865). In May 1997, the Texas Legislature officially designated Clifton as the Norwegian Capital of Texas. Nearby Norse is the final resting place of Cleng Peerson, internationally recognized as the Father of Norwegian Immigration to America. We will In 1854 a small group of Norwegian immigrants arrived in Bosque County along with Cleng Peerson, The Father of Norwegian Immigration. The land was free, and the Norwegians thought the beautiful land reminded them of their homeland. Culture A chair made by Peerson was placed in the Clifton College museum but was later given to the Bosque Memorial Museum. On Saturday, December 3rd, tourists can acquire free copies of an event guidebook at local shops, purchase tickets at the Chamber of Commerce, and take a self-guided tour of a wide variety of sites and interests. The 72nd Annual Clifton Rodeo will take place June 8-10, 2023. Nearby Norse is the final resting place of Cleng Peerson, internationally recognized as the Father of Norwegian Immigration to America. google_ad_client = "pub-0382623543249625"; Wikipedia; Clifton, Texas Norwegian Capital of Texas (Clifton nickname), Texas cooking: Kill something, bacon wrap it with a jalapeo and grill it. google_ad_height = 600; Tickets and information: 254-675-3720 or 1-800-344-3720In celebration of the holiday and of heritage, Norwegian Country Christmas Tour ushers in the season with a reflection on Cliftons rich Scandinavian origin and all the joy of Christmas. The gift shop is stocked with Norwegian souvenirs of every variety. rough areas on the county roads due to chip seal pavement and some Site Designed and Hosted by Cave Consulting. Nearby Norse is the final resting place of Cleng Peerson, internationally recognized as the Father of Norwegian Immigration to America. Peerson lived with Colwick until his death, on December 16, 1865. Visit https://www.bosquemuseum.org/sporting-clays-tourney for more information. Big Event season is almost upon us, and the committee is planning a fun time for all. Youll also discover a covered patio, fire pit, and the cutest, French inspired decor. Despite its size, Clifton is home to several tasty restaurants, including Olafs Restaurant and Bar. WebClifton celebrates its Norwegian heritage each year with the Norwegian Country Christmas Tour, held the first Saturday of December. See their website for upcoming showings. The Ringness house was the site of the first Lutheran Church services in the county and today is restored as headquarters for the Bosque County Chapter of the Norwegian Society of Texas. Norwegian Capital of Texas Clifton WebExplore Trending Festivals in Texas. immigrants, some coming directly from Norway and others from The Bosque Museum (bosquemuseum.org) in Clifton, Texas, features the regions history. It was in this region that immigrants farmed, married, raised families, worshipped, and were buried. Uncovering the Home of Cleng Peerson, Father of Norwegian Settlers in Texas Submitted by Barbara Putrino on Tue, 03/22/2016 - 8:00am Categories: Archeology Tags: National Register, Texas Archeological Stewardship Network, archeology By Becky Shelton, THC Regional Archeologist PARKING:There is plenty of parking available at Clifton High He arrived at New York City in 1821 seeking homes for fellow Norwegian Quakers (most later immigrants from Norway were Lutherans). WHEREAS, King Olav V of Norway visited Clifton in 1982, and a part of State Highway 219 has been selected the Cleng Peerson Memorial Highway; and 152 CR 4145. The Norwegian influence in the area 26 November 1967, Dallas (TX) Morning News, The Lutefisk Festival by Frank X. Tolbert, section A, pg. You can also find a great selection of items at the Clifton Antique Mall. Clifton is home to a flagship tasting room of Meridian, Texas Red Caboose Winery & Distillery. However, the Cell Block Hotel in Clifton, Texas is the one jail you just might want to spend multiple nights in! Their award-winning wines are made with sustainably grown, grapes that are processed using traditional methods to create small batch wines and liquors. Immigration from Norway to Texas started in the 1850s-1860, led by Cleng Peerson (1782-1865). All are paved but there are some google_color_url = "008000"; It has also been named one of the top 100 small art communities in the nation twice and is one of the 51 named cultural districts in Texas! In recognition of his service, the Texas legislature granted Peerson 320 acres of land in Bosque County, half of which he gave to Ovee Colwick in exchange for a home. 17: WHEREAS, The outstanding qualities of this charming and colorful town have made Clifton popular with tourists, and it is certainly worthy of legislative recognition; now, therefore, be it Copyright document.write("2012-" + (new Date()).getFullYear()); Clifton Chamber of Commerce, Hosting and photography courtesy of PROMIT. Norwegian Capital of Texas (Clifton nickname), Sometimes I feel like throwing in the towelbut that would only make more laundry for me, There is a saying about April: It is a wonderful month filled with love, happiness & various fools, Official Capital Designations - Texas State Library. google_color_link = "0000FF"; Site Designed and Hosted by Cave Consulting. WHEREAS, In preserving the communitys colorful past, the citizens of Clifton have done an excellent job; the historic Norway Mill and the log home of the Joseph Olson family are attractions for tourists and residents alike; and Then he moved to newly organized Bosque County, urging fellow Norwegians in East Texas to do so as well. If you continue to be blocked, please send an email to secruxurity@sizetedistrict.cVmwom with: https://www.norwegianamerican.com/bosque-museum/, Mozilla/5.0 (Macintosh; Intel Mac OS X 10_15_6) AppleWebKit/605.1.15 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/14.1.1 Safari/605.1.15, A summary of what you were doing and why you need access to this site. Much of the buildings original interior is still intact, even after its complete remodel in 2011. Make a stop at Silver Spur Winery in downtown Hico, stay in the cutest, themed airstreams at Off the Vine RV Park, and experience rock climbing like never before at Siloville, complete with ziplining, a bouldering course, and a Ninja Warrior course. Here youll find a playground, which once served Clifton Elementary School, as well as a walking path. REST STOPS:There The L. A. Thompson Gallery of Fine Art is a smaller art gallery in downtown Clifton with a constantly rotating selection of art pieces. or checks made out to Clifton Chamber of Commerce. Known as the Norwegian Capital of Texas, Clifton and the surrounding area was settled by Norwegian and German immigrants in the mid-1800s. See a 1929 photo of John J. Fitz Gerald and a 1931 photo of John J. Fitz Gerald. WHEREAS, The Bosque Memorial Museum, a legacy from immigrant farmer Jacob Olson, will help visitors learn more about the early settlers in the region; and He was in his seventies when he arrived with his wife and children in 1841. The first Norwegians arrived from two failed east Texas settlements in 1854. The Old Rock Church, built in 1886, looks just as it did a century ago and is one of the most popular landmarks for artists in the county. PARKING: There is plenty of parking available at Clifton High School. WebNorwegian Capital of Texas (Clifton nickname) Clifton was declared the Norwegian Capital of Texas in 1997 by the Texas legislature. TheSeven, a group of seven artists that are well-known in town, each have their own unique and inspiring story documented insidethe Bosque Museum. Box 231 better-known, The Old Rock Church. Visitors will want to include Heritage Village on the tour. The Texas oil boom contributed further to its growth, including the industrial growth that occurred across the entire state. If your browser is out of date, try updating it. Country Spring Winery offers free tours, a tasting room with a fireplace, outdoor seating decorated with fairy lights, yard games, and space to roam the vineyard at your leisure. Since this is the One of the many parks that surround Whitney Lake, Walling Bend Park offers five, free overnight camping sites with covered picnic tables, a boat dock, and pit toilets. However, Clifton isfull of noteworthy artists and their work! Peerson is buried in the cemetery of Our Saviors Lutheran Church outside of Cranfills Gap, Texas. North Texas Beer and Wine Festival. Featuring a variety of antiques, collectibles, books, crafts, art, and jewelry, there is something for everyone on your souvenir list (or for you, of course). From this visiting collection,the center chooses threepieces to permanently add to its collection. Tickets and information: 254-675-3720 or 1-800-344-3720. Official Capital Designations - Texas State Library This website uses cookies to provide our visitors with a great user experience. Must be an Everfest PRO member to view contact info. In 1997, Clifton was designated the Norwegian Capital of Texas by the state legislature. $12 for Tour, $12 for Lunch. He was buried at the cemetery at Norse, Texas. Updated: August 1, 1995 Norwegians. Texas Legislature The church is the annual site of the Norse Smorgasbord, a feast of traditional foods introduced to the area by Norwegian settlers. And Bosque County is sometimes called Texas Norway. burner climbs, followed by fast descents. Its perfect for a girls trip or a romantic getaway! Cranfills Gap by centurys end. PEERSON, CLENG (1782-1865). If you stop in for anything, take one of their homemade pies or pastries to enjoy on the road. WebOscars SXSW Star Wars Celebration Cannes STARmeter Awards Awards Central Festival Central (Indahl), who worked at a supermarket, and Daniel Clifton Pratt, who remodeled houses. Each will Check the Bosque Arts Centerswebsiteand Facebookto stay up to date on the latest events happening in Clifton. Artisan demonstrations normally include quilting, Norwegian painting, and wood carving. RESOLVED, That the 76th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby name Clifton the Norwegian Capital of Texas and applaud its citizens for their notable efforts in preserving the fascinating heritage of the area. Activities: Folk dancing, including Leikarring folk dance group WebCome and visit the new Clifton Aracade. The list of things to do in Clifton will definitely keep you busy! The first Norwegians were drawn to the area by its beauty, abundant water, wildlife, and fertile soil. (In the Senate - Filed March 18, 1999; March 23, 1999, read first time and referred to Committee on Administration; April 15, 1999, reported favorably by the following vote: Yeas 5, Nays 0; April 15, 1999, sent to printer.) The Bosque Museum holds its annual Christmas Open House, where rooms are beautifully decorated to reflect the Norwegian and pioneer heritage of the community. Known as the Norwegian Capital of Texas, Clifton and the surrounding area was settled by Norwegian and German immigrants in the mid-1800s. Multiple Locations in Historic Clifton Clifton, TX, 2023 Copyright Everfest, Inc. All rights reserved. 2022 My Curly Adventures LLC | All rights reserved. Audio provided by Dorothy Emmerich. In 1982, the city welcomed Norwegian King Olav V; each December, it hosts a Norwegian Country Christmas.. 2 talking about this. WHEREAS, The Legislature of the State of Texas is pleased to designate Clifton, Texas, as the Norwegian Capital of Texas; and 52 WebNorwegian Country Christmas Tour. Some 40 structures, most built of native limestone, still remain in the Norse Historic District. WebSo make sure to get pre-registered today. The Website uses Mediavine to manage all third-party advertising on the Website. Copyright 2023 Clifton All Rights Reserved. No. google_color_link = "0000FF"; WebThe church archives are located in the parish hall. The population was 3,542 at the 2000 census. Housed in what was Cliftons town pharmacy, Corner Drug Cafe is now a family-owned business selling fresh, scratch made meals that you can enjoy at breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an accompanying cup of coffee, glass of wine, or beer. The Bosque Arts Center also hosts live performances, concerts, workshops, and even Bingo nights! Historic Clifton, Clifton, Texas. He arrived at New York City in 1821 seeking homes for fellow Norwegian Quakers (most later immigrants from Norway were Lutherans). The people who made this voyage are sometimes referred to as the Sloopers. Ordinarily, you would avoid spending the night in jail at all costs. We will be donating the first month of each new vendor & artist subscription to the Austin Justice Coalition. Clear Lake Greek Festival. Tolstoy & Co. Bookshop is not only a charming, independent bookstore, but youll also find a coffee shop, lounge, study area, and a kids space if youre traveling with the littles. Call the Clifton Chamber of Commerce to purchase your tickets. Heritage, Art and Culture He moved to Texas in 1850 and lived with friends near Dallas until 1854. Clifton, TX The event traditionally kicks off on Friday night with a lighted parade through downtown that is enjoyed by young and old alike. Your request appears similar to malicious requests sent by robots. Most roads are comfortable to ride on. WHAT TO EXPECT:You will be riding on a combination google_color_border = "336699"; Norwegian Capital of Texas Clifton Visitors will want to include Heritage Village on the tour. WHEREAS, In preserving the communitys colorful past, the citizens of Clifton have done an excellent job; the historic Norway Mill and the log home of the Joseph Olson family are attractions for tourists and residents alike; and Cleng Peerson (Kleng Pedersen), who championed the immigration of Norwegiansqv to the United States, was born in Tysvr, Norway, on May 17, 1782. This year the Luncheon will be provided by the Cranfills Gap Chamber of Commerce. A joint project of the Clifton Economic Development Corporation and the Clifton Chamber of Commerce. WHEREAS, Settled about 1854, the area had as two of its most notable settlers Ole Canuteson and Cleng Peerson, who established the community of Norse in Bosque County; presently, the largest population of Norwegian Americans in the South and Southwest call Clifton home; and Popular stops often include the 1850s-era Questad and Ringness homes. Their menu includes dishes such asfilets, salmon, and rack of lamb. They will start serving lunch at 11am till 1:30pm, to go plates are available too. Immigration from Norway to Texas started in the 1850s-1860, led by Cleng Peerson (1782-1865). Artisan demonstrations normally include quilting, Norwegian painting, and wood carving. Tickets are $12/person Heritage Village is part of The Norwegian Country Christmas Tour and is free to the public. IN NORWAY, I was told, lutefisk, not in the dried state, is the holiday dish, especially around Christmas-time, as is turkey in the U.S. After some 150 years, many of the old homes and outbuildings are now in ruins, while many have been lovingly maintained and restored. WebClifton celebrates its Norwegian heritage each year with the Norwegian Country Christmas Tour, held the first Saturday of December. Clifton Norwegian Country Christmas has ushered in the holiday season now for thousands of visitors since it began in 1992. He moved to Texas in 1850 and lived with friends near Dallas until 1854. The Norwegian Capital of Texas is full of amazing art, history, food, and more to add to your list of things to do in Clifton. You can also even access the river just past the bridge. The Norwegian settlement began here in 1854, the same year the county was founded, They settled northwest of Clifton in a large area today known as the Norse Historic District, where they farmed and built their homes of limestone. The gift shop is stocked with Norwegian souvenirs of every variety. WebThe city was established in 1852 and quickly rose as a center of commerce. We will have 4 routes to choose from 20, 40, 60 and 80 miles. Phone: 254-675-3962. The museum is open the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month from 10am to 2pm with tours available upon request. IN NORWAY, I was told, lutefisk, not in the dried state, is the holiday dish, especially around Christmas-time, as is turkey in the U.S. Katy Wild West Brew Fest. Lady Bugs in Clifton isfilled with clothingfor all ages, vintage items, refurbished furniture, gifts, and more! google_ad_width = 120; WebAddress: 115 N. Ave. D Clifton, Texas 76634 Phone: (254) 675-3720 / (800) 344-3720 A joint project of the Clifton Economic Development Corporation and the Clifton Chamber of Commerce. google_ad_format = "120x600_as"; Youll find several activities along Main Street, including a local market with aBBQ and burger cookout, a 5K/1K event, a handmade quilt auction, a car and motorcycle show, free kids activities, and live entertainment. WHEREAS, The outstanding qualities of this charming and colorful town have made Clifton popular with tourists, and it is certainly worthy of legislative recognition; now, therefore, be it Google Maps. Copyright 2023 Clifton All Rights Reserved. He is of mostly Norwegian descent. Eventually, Clifton became the largest Norwegian colony in the southwest and was officially named the Norwegian Capital of Texas by the state legislature in 1997. google_ad_format = "120x600_as"; WHEREAS, The special cultural and historical significance of Clifton has made it quite well known; the Texas Historical Commission designated the town a Texas Main Street City because of its atmosphere and famous hospitality; and Please review the official website or check with the event organizer when planning to attend the event. The population was 3,542 at the 2000 census. In celebration of the holiday and of heritage, Norwegian Country Christmas Tour ushers in the season with a reflection on Cliftons google_color_link = "0000FF"; WebYour guide to Clifton Norwegian Country Christmas 2023 in Clifton. The Chamber welcomes floats, singers, riders, and other entrants to participate in this festive tradition. Peerson lived with Colwick until his death, on December 16, 1865. She was conceived in Dallas, Texas (the reason for her middle name). Today, the Ringness House is a museum open for tours on special occasions and by appointment. Historical: Historical markers have been established through the cooperation of NST and the Texas Historical Commission, including the Cleng Peerson Highway (Highway 219) between Clifton and Cranfills Gap. The tour also includes stops at beautiful, contemporary ranch homes in the Clifton area. The 1999 tour was a featured Road Trip appearing in the November 1999 issue of Texas Highways. With stunning waterfalls, so much international influence, and incredible landscapes, this guide only scratches the surface of all that can be done in Texas. Site Designed and Hosted by Cave Consulting. Between 1854 and the end of the century, thousands of settlers located to the Clifton area and established the largest Norwegian colony in the southwest. Above, a 1934 plaque from the Big Apple Night Club at West 135th Street and Seventh Avenue in Harlem. Explore Dinosaur Valley State Park, go on safari at Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, shop around downtown, and so much more in Glen Rose. The event kicks off Friday night with a lighted parade through downtown and The Bosque Museums annual Christmas Open House. () Clifton was first established by Norwegian settlers in 1854 and continued to grow through the end of the 19th century. Visitors to Clifton may explore the vast collection of pioneer Norwegian articles at the Bosque Memorial Museum, or take the Cleng Peerson Memorial Highway west to the Norse Historic District. If youre looking for a weekend getaway or perhaps some inspiration, a trip to Clifton is perfect for just that! Stroll through their vineyard, grab a glass or a bottle to share, and enjoy the view of the rolling hills from their rooftop patio. There, visitors can enjoy a myriad of seasonal exhibits, refreshments, and shop for unique homemade Christmas gifts ranging from candies to paintings, pottery, crafts and jewelry. The church is the annual site of the Norse Smorgasbord, a feast of traditional foods introduced to the area by Norwegian settlers. RESOLVED, That the 76th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby name Clifton the Norwegian Capital of Texas and applaud its citizens for their notable efforts in preserving the fascinating heritage of the area. Mediavine serves content and advertisements when you visit the Website, which may use cookies. The estate itself also hosts tastings and events like their Fork & Cork events, complete with patio seating and live music, and their Grape Stomping Festival. Not only are a large percentage of the population of Norwegian descent, but youll find several original limestone buildings built when their ancestors first arrived, Norwegian artifacts at the Bosque County Museum, and so much more! () about the area. google_color_border = "336699"; Texas Legislature USA USA. Signup with your email address to receive news and updates. Because the tour itinerary changes annually, many visitors return again and again with new friends eager to experience the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season with Cliftons Norwegian Country Christmas. FM 219 was renamed Cleng Peerson Memorial Highway in 1975. SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION 26 November 1967, Dallas (TX) Morning News, The Lutefisk Festival by Frank X. Tolbert, section A, pg. Further down the road a Lutefisk dinner is held annually in Cranfills Gap, near the site of the historic Old Rock Church. Clifton is a city in Bosque County, Texas, United States. Dont be fooled by the classic appearance of Cliftex Theatre. Genealogical: Interested and expert members of NST can help you trace your roots or direct you to organizations assisting in genealogy research. Because the tour itinerary changes annually, many visitors return again and again with new friends eager to experience the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season with Cliftons Norwegian Country Christmas. ATX Television Festival. Further down the road a Lutefisk dinner is held annually in Cranfills Gap, near the site of the historic Old Rock Church. The Clifton Classic Chassis Auto Museum and Golden Age Gallery of Art features35 cars spanning from the 1940s to the 1980s including Corvettes, Thunderbirds, and many more! 1981, in Los Angeles, California. Inside, youll find the theater itself has been restored but its memorabilia have been preserved for your viewing pleasure on your way to your seat. DECEMBER 6-7, 2019. The daylong event features demonstrations of Norwegian crafts, tours of homes and buildings harkening back to the days of the early settlers, and many other related activities. The start/finish line will be at Clifton High School. Among its many offerings are a performing theatre, classes in a variety of subjects, an annual photography show and a nationally recognized art show. The church is the annual site of the Norse Smorgasbord, a feast of traditional foods introduced to the area by Norwegian settlers. Held annually the first weekend of December (Saturday), the event offers a weekend of history and fun for those wishing to fully experience The Norwegian Capital of Texas.. google_color_url = "008000"; In 1825, he led a group of Norwegians, many of them Quakers, who traveled from Stavanger, Norway to New York City, arriving on 9 October 1825 after a three-month voyage, and onward to their first settlement, in Kendall, Orleans County, New York. Visit Juniper Cove Winery for one of their many on-site events, like Thirsty Thursdays and live music. Arts and crafts, including rosemaling, embroidery and Norwegian foods In May 1997, the Texas Legislature officially designated Clifton as the Norwegian Capital of Texas.