A little geography, a little history

Clifton College was operated by the Norwegian Lutherans early in the 20th century. German Lutherans attended as well, making up the bulk of the baseball roster. Clifton was a rough town with three saloons and a bawdy house across the Santa Fe tracks. The Norwegians lived on richer farmland west of town and preferred their bucolic havens to the German's more practical survival in town. Consequently, the Germans were a bit rougher and tougher; the Norwegians, a bit richer and more refined.

Clifton College, which eventually became Texas Lutheran in Seguin, had a great ball team in 1925. I heard the story from my Uncle Gus, pitcher and right fielder. He eventually made money in the plumbing business in Ft. Worth, changing his name to Anders. Anders means "different" in English. Honest Anders (easier to pronounce than Wiederaenders) was an honest plumber. I know the story is true because my Uncle Gary often repeated the facts for his wide-eyed nephews.

Uncle Gary went to Germany in WW II as an intelligence officer, speaking German. He never lied although we often wondered why he claimed so many "military secrets" when we asked for more facts and further supporting information. He also pitched and played center field for the 1925 Clifton College team. What I'm saying is: The story must be true!

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