Clifton, Texas. Population 3465 in 2020. You may wonder what there can possibly be to do in such a tiny town. But we can assure you, it’s worth the stop. It’s one of our favorite places to go.
Bosque Museum – 301 S Ave Q., Clifton TX 76634
The collection was started by and donated by immigrant Jacob Olson. It has the distinction of having been visited by King Olaf V of Norway in 1982. Besides historical artifacts, the Jacob Olson Log Home is also on display. It was built by his father in 1866 and was Jacob’s childhood home. The structure was moved to the site in 1985. It’s so tiny it’s hard to imagine living in it. But in those days, people didn’t have as much “stuff” and didn’t just spend most of their day indoors.
The permanent collection includes firearms, early photos, medical equipment, and old furniture. The museum also boasts to have “the largest repository of Norwegian artifacts in the South and Southwest.”
Cliftex Theater – 306 W Fifth St., Clifton, TX 76634
Built in 1916, the Cliftex is the oldest continuously operating theater in Texas! This cute, tiny theater with a small old-fashioned snack bar makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time to your teenage years. They play a variety of movies, from old-fashioned classics to modern cartoons and the latest movies. Open Thursday through Sunday.
Bosque Arts Center – 215 College Hill Dr., Clifton TX 76634
This building, built in 1923, was originally the administrative building for the Clifton Lutheran College founded in 1896. In 1942 a fire destroyed the college and only this building was left standing. It was later donated and became the Bosque Arts Center in 2009. Continual events and activities are happening all year round. Various groups, such as a book club, culinary club, quilt guild, and others meet there. Classes such as yoga, taekwondo, and piano are also offered.
Bonus tip: Check the calendar for the Bosque Arts Museum for their fundraiser Bingo nights. They are an absolute blast! The caller is like a comedian, lovingly making fun of the attendees, most of whom he knows by name. The payouts are good as well, sometimes little surprises are thrown in. For example, David once won $75 – and two turnips. Yes, turnips. He was very excited about that.
(Please be sure to check websites when planning to stop in case days and hours change.)
Leave a comment