Considered the oldest thriving community in the Panhandle, Clarendon was established as a “sobriety society” and an alternative to the wild boomtowns nearby. Nicknamed “Saints Roost” by cowboys, today the history of the community is recalled at the Saints Roost Museum. Clarendon is the seat of Donley County and a center for the ranching industry. Clarendon College offers courses in skilled vocational training.
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Attractions
Bar H Dude Ranch. Guests can take part in traditional ranch activities at this family-owned working cattle ranch. 12064 Bar H Ranch Road.
Greenbelt Reservoir. Located in the Red River Basin, this lake is a summer favorite with families, anglers and swimmers. Four miles north on Rt. 70.
Saints Roost Museum. Located in former hospital building, the Saints Roost Museum is devoted to local history. Many exhibits offer insights into life on local ranches in the past century. The museum also sponsors several community events during the year. 610 E. Harrington St.
Festivals
JULY:
Saint’s Roost Celebration. Held around the 4th of July, this event remembers Clarendon’s western heritage with an arts and crafts fair, a barbecue lunch, a children’s bicycle and tricycle parade followed be a 4th of July parade. Rodeo events, a dance and other activities are also on hand. Most events are held in City Park.
SEPTEMBER:
Col. Charles Goodnight Chuckwagon Cookoff. Sponsored by the Saints Roost Museum, this annual event celebrates traditional chuckwagon cooking with competitions, live entertainment, tours of the museum, and a western trade show.
Map
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