Clutier holds a special place in my heart. Many years of my youth were spent around this town whether it be visiting my grandma or attending the annual Clutier celebration during the first week of August. Every time I drive around this quaint town, I always wonder what the now closed school looked like back in the day or what the gym looks like today. Being able to shoot a shot on those floors today would be special.

The rest of the town is still distinct. One can walk across the town in a short amount of time to see all the attractions. One of the coolest buildings is the ZCBJ Hall. The unique façade, the beautiful curtain hanging on the stage, and the variety of events using its space, made going to this hall worth it.

As a child, I remember going to My Mother’s Place. From the depths of my memory, the food tasted wonderful. Whether my palette today would agree, no one knows, but it still would have been worth visiting like the Clutier jail. Not open very often, but I remember one year during the festival, it was amazing to see its small space.

The American Legion Building is another favorite. I spent a lot of time there for various events for friends and family. Located on the west side of Clutier, it was always impressive when the movable wall unveiled the bar. My mind was blown every time as a child.

During my childhood, it was known as Teddy’s and has since gone through different owners, but the local watering hole and restaurant is on its current iteration, Bohemian Blonde. I have only heard complimentary reviews about this restaurant. The existence of this restaurant is important to Clutier.

Before eating, one should check out the Clutier Public Library. In addition to the book selection, the white basketball from Clutier’s 1942 state title game is in the place it belongs. Gone for eighteen years in Des Moines, the pride of Clutier is on display for all to see.

While Clutier has changed in some ways since my youth, other parts of town have not. I always enjoy a quick trip to Clutier to see what has changed and what has not. The town still has a lot of spirit, and it is worth supporting. It has a unique place in Tama County.