Clifton is an incorporated city in Bosque County, Texas; it was established in the winter of 1852-53 when four Norwegian families, the Kells, Kemps, Lockers, and McSpaddens settled in the area. The city is surrounded by limestone cliffs, resulting in the city name Cliff Town which was later shortened to Clifton. The community began with a Masonic Lodge and a log schoolhouse, later followed by a post office established in 1859. The First Presbyterian Church of Clifton (or rather its congregation) was created in 1861 and still exists today, making it the county's oldest continuous church; the actual church building wasn't constructed until 1884-85. Today, Clifton is known as the Norwegian Capital of Texas, an official designation granted by the state legislature. It celebrates its heritage annually with a Christmas tour. The city is well known for its visual and performing arts, and is the home of the Bosque Arts Center, which offers classes, annual art and photography shows, and has a performing theater.