You won’t miss Shamrock on Interstate 40. Just look for the water tower. Built in 1915 and rising 176 feet high, it’s the tallest water tank of its type in Texas. Follow I-40 business along historic Route 66 and drop in at the Tower Conoco Station and U-Drop Inn Café. The 1930s Art Deco service station and restaurant house a visitors center and historical displays. In summers the site hosts live music shows. Just off Route 66 check out the historic Reynolds Hotel which accommodated travelers and peddlers beginning in the Roaring Twenties. Now the Pioneer West Museum, the former hotel offers 25 rooms of historical memorabilia. Next door is a restored 1930s Magnolia Oil gas station and a 1920s law office. Across the street find an antique tractor and buggy collection. A few blocks away, catch a current movie or live music in the refurbished 1930 Texas Theater. Immigrant Irish sheep rancher George Nichel named this town Shamrock in the 1890s for good luck and courage. Every year since 1938 (except for a few war years), the town has honored that heritage with its St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, featuring a parade, live music, classic car show and Donegal beard contest.
