"Hei" From Clifton and Bosque County

Det var helt Texas! Norwegian Heritage Is "Totally Texas" in Clifton and Bosque County

Texas is well known for it various mix of cultures. But did you know that Norwegian heritage is among them? It may be the state's best kept secret - but not any longer. Plan a trip to Clifton and Bosque County that will leave you saying, "Det var helt Texas!".

Pictured: A ranch gate with "Come and Take It" in Norwegian on the Cleng Peerson Memorial Highway near Clifton
Credit: Damaris Neeley

From Norway to Texas

Between 1854 and the turn of the century, thousands of Norwegian settlers established the largest Norwegian colony west of the Mississippi in the Clifton area, settling primarily in what is now the Norse Historic District. Cleng Peerson, along with Ole Canuteson and Carl Engebretson Quaestad, led the first group of immigrants to this region, where they farmed, built families, and maintained their traditions. The settlers were drawn to the area's landscape, which reminded them of Norway, and were further encouraged by the state’s offer of free land. By 1900, over 1,300 Norwegian-born residents lived in Texas, though by 1940, Norwegian customs and language had largely faded as descendants integrated into Texas rural life.

Despite this, traces of Norwegian influence still remain in the region’s architecture, names, and customs, such as the annual smorgasbord at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church. In 1975, the Norwegian Society of Texas was formed to preserve this cultural heritage.

Gracefully illuminated gravestone obelisk at night, with a charming church and trees outlined against a serene deep blue sky.
Pictured: Cleng Peerson's grave in Our Savior's Cemetery in Cranfills Gap
Credit: Clifton Chamber of Commerce

Have a Good Trip! (or "God Tur!" if you want to impress any Norwegian-speaking locals)

There's a reason that Clifton was designated "The Norwegian Capital of Texas" by the state's legislature. With Clifton as the hub of activity and all the sites within Bosque County, you'll need a couple of days to experience it all. And if you visit during the Christmas season, there are even more ways to experience a little bit of Norway right here in Texas.

A friendly cartoon troll holding a Norwegian flag shield and walking stick greets visitors outside a charming building with a green door.
One of the Norwegian trolls that can be seen in downtown Clifton
Credit: Sarah Page

Where To Go

Norwegian heritage is still alive and well in Clifton and Bosque County ... you just need to know where to look. Luckily, we've put together a collection of sites that will leave you exclaiming, "det var digg!" - or "that's cool!" in Norwegian.

Experience Norwegian Heritage for Yourself

Have a Merry Norwegian Holiday

There's just something about holiday events ... they can really put you in a festive mood. For a different twist on the holidays, visit Clifton and Bosque County in early December to experience Christmas like a Texas Norwegian.

The Smithsonian Comes to Clifton

There's one more reason to visit Clifton if you plan your trip before December 1. Clifton is one of seven rural Texas communities that have been selected by the Texas Historical Commission to host a travelling Smithsonian exhibit that takes a close look at the evolution of rural America in the last century.

Get ready for an exciting journey through Bosque County’s rich heritage with "Crossroads: Bosque County." This dynamic exhibit will dive deep into the themes of "Crossroads: Change in Rural America," with a special focus on life in Bosque County. Guests can actively engage in the story by sharing their thoughts at various theme stations or take part in our interactive Paper Quilt project. To find our more about the exhibit and all the fun and fascinating programs that go along with it, visit this informative page.

Author

Sarah Page

Heritage Tourism Program Coordinator