Rambler Motel / Blarney Inn

402 E. 12th St., Shamrock, TX
Phone: 806-256-2101

East < GO > West

The former Rambler Motel dates back to at least the mid-50s. It was the Blarney Inn when I took these photos in 2012. It is located at 402 E. 12th St. (Route 66). It started out as the Rambler Motel which claimed to be "Shamrock's Largest and Finest" motel on what appears to be a mid-1960's postcard.

Every once in a while looking up stuff along the Mother Road you come upon a really cool bit of info, here's one of those bits. In 1963 Charles Harrington, the motel manager, built a 24 foot tall, 16 foot wide "True West Texas Christmas Tree" out of tumble weed! He placed a flashing neon star on top.

The Blarney Inn sign is a bit worn and weathered in this photo, but includes the phrase "A Wee Bit of Ireland Here in Shamrock"

Unlike many motels of the time where the pool was located in the courtyard here it was located behind the motel but has since has been filled in.

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Vintage Advertising Highlights

Rambler Motel
East Highway 66
Shamrock, Texas
AAA
New, Air Conditioned, Steam Heat, 32 Ultra Modern Units, Wall to Wall Carpeting, Tub and Ceramic Tile Baths. Phone 654 for Reservations.
Telephone in all units.
Landes and Sally Horton

RAMBLER MOTEL
Shamrock's Largest & Finest
Electric and steam heat, heated swimming pool, refrigerated air, color TV optional, room phones, wall to wall carpet. 35 units. Honoring Bank Americard, Master Charge, American Express, Diners Club, Carte Blanche, Torche Club credit cards.
Wayne and Connie Booth, Managers
Interstate 40 & 66
Phone 806-256-****
Shamrock Texas, 79079

NOTE: The first postcard appears to be from the mid 50s, the second from the early 1970s because of the reference to I-40.
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Photo(s): 2012