Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, located west of Clifton, Texas, has been a spiritual cornerstone for the local Norwegian community since its founding. The church’s story began in 1854 with Cleng Peerson, known as the “Father of Norwegian Immigration to America,” who encouraged early settlers to establish the Norse community. Initially, worship services were held in homes and spoken in Norwegian. Under the guidance of Rev. Ole O. Estrem, the congregation formally organized on July 14, 1869, with 230 charter members. Norwegian remained the language of worship until the introduction of English services in 1915, and by 1941, services were entirely conducted in English. The church earned a Texas Historical Building Medallion in 1962, recognizing its cultural significance.

Cleng Peerson, who is buried in the church’s cemetery, continues to draw visitors, including King Olav V of Norway, who paid tribute during a visit in 1982. Today, Our Savior’s remains an active congregation, celebrating its Norwegian roots through annual events like the November Smorgasbord. The church also preserves its rich heritage in its archives, housed in the parish hall, offering insights into the history of the Norwegian settlers who shaped this region.