Norwegian Historic District

The Norwegian Historic District, located just outside of Clifton on Cleng Peerson Memorial Hwy. FM 219, draws many tourists to our area. The Norse community is dotted with historical sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places including two churches, 46 homesteads, and a cemetery which pay homage to the strong Norwegian Heritage of Clifton.

Pioneers such as Cleng Peerson, called “the Father of Norse Immigration to America,” and Ole Canuteson brought groups of Norwegians to area in the 1850s. Peerson’s grave, churchyard of Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Norse community, has been honored by Norwegian descendants throughout the U.S..

Norse customs are celebrated throughout the year including “Syttende Mai” (Norwegian Constitution Day) in May, smorgasbord in Nov., and Norwegian Country Christmas and Lutefisk Dinner on the first Saturday in December. To rent or purchase a driving tape, call the Clifton Chamber of Commerce.