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{{Short description|City in the United States}}
{{Infobox Settlement
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2016}}
|official_name =Shamrock, Texas
{{Infobox settlement
|settlement_type =]
| official_name = Shamrock, Texas
|nickname =
| settlement_type = ]
|motto =
|image_skyline = | nickname =
|imagesize = | motto =
| image_skyline = Restored Conoco station in Shamrock, TX IMG_6140.JPG
|image_caption =
|image_flag = | imagesize = 250px
| image_caption = Historic ], a ] fuel station restoration in ] style along ] in Shamrock
|image_seal =
| image_flag =
|image_map =TXMap-doton-Shamrock.PNG
|mapsize =250px | image_seal =
|map_caption =Location of Shamrock, Texas | image_map = Wheeler County Texas incorporated and unincorporated areas Shamrock highlighted.svg
|image_map1 = | mapsize = 300px
| map_caption = Location in ] and the state of ].
|mapsize1 =
| subdivision_type = ]
|map_caption1 =
| subdivision_name = United States
|subdivision_type =]
| subdivision_type1 = ]
|subdivision_name =]
| subdivision_name1 = ]
|subdivision_type1 =]
|subdivision_name1 =] | subdivision_type2 = ]
| subdivision_name2 = ]
|subdivision_type2 =]
| government_footnotes = Avery Moon
|subdivision_name2 =]
| government_type =
|government_footnotes =
|government_type = | leader_title =
|leader_title = | leader_name =
|leader_name = | leader_title1 =
|leader_title1 = | leader_name1 =
| established_title = First Settled
|leader_name1 =
| established_date = 1890
|established_title =
| established_title1 = Incorporated
|established_date =
| established_date1 = 1911
|unit_pref =Imperial
|area_footnotes = | unit_pref = Imperial
| area_footnotes = <ref name="CenPopGazetteer2019">{{cite web|title=2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files|url=https://www2.census.gov/geo/docs/maps-data/data/gazetteer/2019_Gazetteer/2019_gaz_place_48.txt|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=August 7, 2020}}</ref>
|area_magnitude =
| area_magnitude =
|area_total_km2 =5.4
|area_land_km2 =5.4 | area_total_km2 = 5.30
|area_water_km2 =0.0 | area_land_km2 = 5.30
| area_water_km2 = 0.00
|area_total_sq_mi =2.1
| area_total_sq_mi = 2.05
|area_land_sq_mi =2.1
| area_land_sq_mi = 2.05
|area_water_sq_mi =0.0
| area_water_sq_mi = 0.00
|population_as_of =]
| population_as_of = ]
|population_footnotes =
| population_footnotes =
|population_total =2029
| population_total = 1789
|population_density_km2 =378.3
| timezone = ]
|population_density_sq_mi =979.7
| utc_offset = -6
|timezone =]
|utc_offset =-6 | timezone_DST = CDT
| utc_offset_DST = -5
|timezone_DST =CDT
| elevation_footnotes = <ref name=gnis/>
|utc_offset_DST =-5
|elevation_footnotes = | elevation_ft = 2333
| coordinates = {{coord|35|13|02|N|100|14|50|W|region:US-TX|display=inline,title}}
|elevation_m =714
| postal_code_type = ]
|elevation_ft =2343
|latd = 35 |latm = 13 |lats = 2 |latNS = N | postal_code = 79079
| area_code = ]
|longd = 100 |longm = 14 |longs = 50 |longEW = W
|postal_code_type =] | blank_name = ]
| blank_info = 48-67160<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov|publisher=]|access-date=January 31, 2008|title=U.S. Census website}}</ref>
|postal_code =79079
| blank1_name = ] feature ID
|area_code =]
| blank1_info = 2411875<ref name=gnis>{{GNIS|2411875}}</ref>
|blank_name =]
|blank_info =48-67160{{GR|2}} | website = {{URL|www.shamrocktexas.net}}
| footnotes =
|blank1_name =] feature ID
|blank1_info =1368050{{GR|3}}
|website =
|footnotes =
}} }}
]
]


'''Shamrock''' is a city in ], ], United States. As of the 2020 Census, the city had a total population of 1,789.<ref>{{cite web |title=Shamrock city, Texas - Census Bureau Profile |url=https://data.census.gov/profile/Shamrock_city,_Texas?g=160XX00US4867160 |access-date=2022-07-04 |publisher=}}</ref> The city is located in the eastern portion of the ], centered along the crossroads of ] (formerly ]) and ]. It is {{convert|110|mi|km}} east of ], {{convert|188|mi|km}} west of ], and {{convert|291|mi|km}} northwest of ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.city-data.com/city/Shamrock-Texas.html |title=Shamrock, Texas Detailed Profile |publisher=City-Data.com |access-date=March 21, 2008 }}</ref>
'''Shamrock''' is a city in ], ]. The population was 2,029 at the 2000 census but is now rapidly dwindling due to local governmental corruption and abuse of power. <ref name=news>; ; , the </ref>

==History==
Located in south-central Wheeler County, Shamrock was the largest town in the county in the late 19th century. George and Dora Nickel consented to keep the first ] in their dugout there in 1890. The mail was to be carried once a week from ]. The neighbors decided to let George name the office. His ] mother had told him always to depend on a ] to bring him good luck, so holding true to his Irish descent, he suggested "Shamrock" for the name of the office. When a mysterious fire destroyed his dugout, however, George Nickel's post office never opened. Mary Ruth Jones became Shamrock's first postmistress, running the Shamrock post office out of the Jones family home.

In 1902, the Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway set up a station in the town, calling it "Wheeler" like the county, but later changing it back to the original name of Shamrock in 1903, which prompted the reopening of the Shamrock post office. By 1907, the town was competing with the towns of Story and Benonine as trade centers.<ref name="HandbookTexas">{{cite web |url=https://tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/hgs08 |title=Shamrock, TX |publisher=] |work=] (Online Edition) |first=H. Allen |last=Anderson |date=January 18, 2008 |access-date=March 21, 2008 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080112004410/http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/SS/hgs8.html <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = January 12, 2008}}</ref>

The town continued its growth as other businesses moved into the city, including the county newspaper, which moved from Story and renamed itself from the ''Wheeler County Texan'' to the ''Shamrock Texan'', several banks, and Shamrock Cotton Oil Mill. In 1911, E. L. Woodley became the ] of the newly incorporated city. In 1926, the discovery of oil and the operation of ] wells by Shamrock Gas Company helped spur the city's continuing growth. A decline in the oil industry caused the population to drop in the 1940s, but it rebounded in the next decade with the improvement of Route 66. By the 1980s, the town was home to an established modern school system, a chemical plant, oil and gas processing plants, and a hospital.<ref name="HandbookTexas" />

At its peak in 1930, Shamrock had a population of 3,778. Despite some rebounds, the city population continues to fluctuate. According to the 2020 census, the city population has dropped to its second lowest recorded point with 1,789 residents.<ref name="HandbookTexas" /> Despite this, Shamrock remains the second-largest city on the Texas segment of Route 66, after Amarillo.


==Geography== ==Geography==
Shamrock is located at {{coor dms|35|13|2|N|100|14|50|W|city}} (35.217116, -100.247171){{GR|1}}.


According to the ], the city has a total area of 2.1&nbsp;]s (5.4&nbsp;]), all of it land. According to the ], the city has a total area of 2.1&nbsp;square miles (5.4&nbsp;km{{sup|2}}), all land.


===Climate===
Shamrock's location, situated at the intersection of I-40 and US-83 (two major highways connecting north, south, east and west) makes it ideal for the drug and crime ring that has held a stranglehold on the area for many years, now.<ref name=news/>

{{Weather box
|location = Shamrock, Texas
|single line = Y
|Jan high F = 48
|Feb high F = 54
|Mar high F = 62
|Apr high F = 72
|May high F = 79
|Jun high F = 88
|Jul high F = 93
|Aug high F = 92
|Sep high F = 84
|Oct high F = 73
|Nov high F = 59
|Dec high F = 50
|Jan low F = 23
|Feb low F = 27
|Mar low F = 35
|Apr low F = 44
|May low F = 54
|Jun low F = 64
|Jul low F = 68
|Aug low F = 67
|Sep low F = 59
|Oct low F = 47
|Nov low F = 34
|Dec low F = 26
|Jan precipitation inch = 0.56
|Feb precipitation inch = 0.84
|Mar precipitation inch = 1.88
|Apr precipitation inch = 2.19
|May precipitation inch = 3.92
|Jun precipitation inch = 3.74
|Jul precipitation inch = 2.17
|Aug precipitation inch = 2.27
|Sep precipitation inch = 2.83
|Oct precipitation inch = 1.92
|Nov precipitation inch = 1.17
|Dec precipitation inch = 0.83
|source 1 = weather.com <ref name=weather1>{{cite web
|url=http://www.weather.com/outlook/travel/businesstraveler/wxclimatology/monthly/USTX1249 |title=Monthly Averages for Shamrock, TX | publisher=] |access-date=April 14, 2008 }}</ref>
|date=August 2010
}}


==Demographics== ==Demographics==
{{US Census population
As of the ]{{GR|2}} of 2000, there were 2,029 people, 852 households, and 550 families residing in the city. The ] was 979.7 people per square mile (378.5/km²). There were 1,072 housing units at an average density of 517.6/sq&nbsp;mi (200.0/km²). The racial makeup of the city was 85.26% ], 4.83% ], 1.38% ], 0.99% ], 0.20% ], 5.91% from ], and 1.43% from two or more races. ] or ] of any race were 13.41% of the population.
| 1920 = 1227
| 1930 = 3780
| 1940 = 3123
| 1950 = 3322
| 1960 = 3113
| 1970 = 2644
| 1980 = 2834
| 1990 = 2286
| 2000 = 2029
| 2010 = 1910
| 2020 = 1789
| footnote = U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref>
}}


===2020 United States Census===
There were 852 households out of which 28.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were ] living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were non-families. 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals and 17.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.95.
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,789 people residing in the city.


=== Economy ===
In the city the population was spread out with 25.3% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 23.7% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 22.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females there were 87.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.1 males.
As of the 2021 American Community Survey, the median household income in Shamrock was $38,958.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shamrock city, Texas - Census Bureau Profile |url=https://data.census.gov/profile/Shamrock_city,_Texas?g=160XX00US4867160 |access-date=2023-07-04}}</ref> 22.1% of all people in Shamrock live below the poverty line.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Shamrock city, Texas - Census Bureau Profile |url=https://data.census.gov/profile/Shamrock_city,_Texas?g=160XX00US4867160 |access-date=2023-07-04}}</ref>


=== Demographics ===
The median income for a household in the city was $25,776, and the median income for a family was $33,542. Males had a median income of $24,688 versus $16,944 for females. The ] for the city was $13,724. About 22.7% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the ], including 24.7% of those under age 18 and 20.0% of those age 65 or over.
As of the 2021 American Community Survey, the median age in Shamrock was 36.7.<ref>{{Cite web |title=S0101: AGE AND SEX - Census Bureau Table |url=https://data.census.gov/table?g=160XX00US4867160&tid=ACSST5Y2021.S0101 |access-date=2023-07-04}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+'''Population by Race (2020)'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=P1: RACE - Census Bureau Table |url=https://data.census.gov/table?g=160XX00US4867160&tid=DECENNIALPL2020.P1 |access-date=2023-07-04 |website=}}</ref>
!Race
!Number
!Percentage
|-
|] alone
|1,370
|76.6%
|-
|] alone
|69
|3.9%
|-
|] and ] alone
|33
|1.8%
|-
|] alone
|23
|1.3%
|-
|Native Hawaiian and Other ] alone
|2
|0.11%
|-
|Some Other Race alone
|146
|8.3%
|-
|Population of two or more races
|146
|8.3%
|-
|'''Total'''
|'''1,789'''
|
|}
===2000 United States Census===
As of the ]<ref name="GR2" /> of 2000, 2,029 people, 852 households, and 550 families resided in the city.

=== Economy ===
The median income for a household in the city was $25,776, and for a family was $33,542. Males had a median income of $24,688 versus $16,944 for females. The ] for the city was $13,724. About 22.7% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the ], including 24.7% of those under age 18 and 20.0% of those age 65 or over.

=== Demographics ===
The ] of the city was 85.26% White, 4.83% African American, 1.38% Native American, 0.99% Asian, 0.20% Pacific Islander, 5.91% from other races, and 1.43% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 13.41% of the population.

Of the 852 households, 28.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were not families. About 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the city, the population was distributed as 25.3% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 23.7% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 22.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.1 males.

==Arts and culture==
], which hosts an annual ] observance]]
] is housed in the former Reynolds Hotel in Shamrock.]]

===U-Drop Inn===
{{Main|U-Drop Inn}}
In 1936, the U-Drop Inn was built at the intersection of ] and the now historic ].<ref name="Remember66">{{cite book |title=Route 66 Remembered |first=Michael |last=Witzel |publisher=Motorbooks International |location=] |date=April 28, 2003 |isbn=0-7603-1498-5 |oclc=51234105 |page=79 |chapter=Chapter 2: Filling Circumstances: Highway Pump and Circumstance }}</ref> At the time of opening, the U-Drop was the only café within {{convert|100|mi|km}} of Shamrock, enjoying brisk business and becoming a successful establishment.<ref name="Route66Lost">{{cite book |title=Route 66, Lost & Found: Ruins and Relics Revisited |first=Russel Olsen |last=Witzel |publisher=Motorbooks International |location=] |date=May 1, 2004 |isbn=0-7603-1854-9 |oclc=55482301 |page=84 |chapter=Texas }}</ref> Once considered a beautiful and impressive example of Route 66 architecture in Texas, the U-Drop Inn fell into disrepair with the decommissioning of Route 66.<ref name="RoadsideRenewal">{{cite journal |title=Roadside Renewal |first=Thomas J. |last=Degrood |publisher=] |journal=] |volume=55 |issue=4 |date=July–August 2005 |pages=42–43}}</ref><ref name="ABC Motels">{{cite web|url=https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=3194639&CMP=OTC-RSSFeeds0312 |title=Route 66 Motels an Endangered Species |first=Justin |last=Juozapavicius |work=] |date=May 2, 2007 |access-date=March 22, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080402013458/https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory?id=3194639&CMP=OTC-RSSFeeds0312 |archive-date=April 2, 2008 }}</ref> Referred to as "one of the most impressive examples" of Route 66 architecture by the Texas Historical Commission,<ref>{{cite journal |url=http://www.thc.state.tx.us/medallionmag/medallionPDFs/MD03-04.pdf |title=The Mother Road: Nostalgia Drives Visitors to Experience Route 66 in the Texas Panhandle |first=Andy |last=Rhodes |publisher=Texas Historical Commission |journal=The Medallion |access-date=March 22, 2008 |volume=March–April 2004 |year=2004 |pages=10–13 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071120012503/http://www.thc.state.tx.us/medallionmag/medallionPDFs/MD03-04.pdf <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = November 20, 2007}}</ref> the U-Drop Inn was added to the ] in 1997.<ref name="NRHP">{{cite web |url=http://www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com/tx/Wheeler/state.html |publisher=] |title=Texas – Wheeler County |access-date=March 22, 2008 }}</ref> In May 1999, the First National Bank of Shamrock purchased the then-closed U-Drop Inn and gave it to the city of Shamrock.<ref name="RoadsideRenewal" /><ref name="Celebrate">{{cite news |url=http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/fea/travel/texasneighbors/stories/DN-regnotes_0302tra.ART.State.Edition1.4683d5b.html |title=Shamrock celebrates St. Patrick's Day in the Panhandle |work=] |date=March 4, 2008 |access-date=March 22, 2008 }}</ref> With a ]1.7 million federal grant, the city was able to hire a firm specializing in historical renovation to restore the building to its original condition and adapt it into a museum, visitors' center, gift shop, and the city's chamber of commerce.<ref name="RoadsideRenewal" /><ref name="66 Association">{{cite web |url=http://www.mockturtlepress.com/texas/drive66east.html |title=Drive 66 (East): Old Route 66 Association of Texas |publisher=Mock Turtle Press and Old Route 66 Association of Texas |access-date=March 22, 2008 }}</ref><ref name="Architexas">{{cite web |url=http://www.architexas.com/pdfs/historic_preservation/tower_station_and_u_drop_inn.pdf |title=Tower Station and U-Drop Inn |publisher=Architexas |access-date=March 22, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081205005544/http://www.architexas.com/pdfs/historic_preservation/tower_station_and_u_drop_inn.pdf |archive-date=December 5, 2008 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> The revived U-Drop Inn was featured in the 2006 animated film '']'' as the inspiration for the fictional Ramone's body shop.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.legendsofamerica.com/PicturePages/66ShamrockUDropInn-2.html |title=Shamrock Texas U-Drop Inn |publisher=Legends of America |access-date=March 22, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080403025356/http://www.legendsofamerica.com/PicturePages/66ShamrockUDropInn-2.html |archive-date=April 3, 2008 |df=mdy-all }}</ref>

===Pioneer West Museum===
], display at Pioneer West Museum]]
The Old Reynolds Hotel, a historic building, was saved from demolition and converted into a museum by local residents. The building with 25 rooms was turned into an exhibition hall with pioneer artifacts, typical objects of settlers, and Native American arrowheads. The exhibits range from local historical objects to a space exhibit to a military history exhibit.

===Blarney Stone ===
]
A kissable chunk of Ireland's ] is located in Shamrock.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://roadtrippers.com/magazine/route-66-antiquity-reigns-supreme/|title=Route 66: Where the past slowly reveals itself and antiquity reigns supreme|last=Preston|first=Benjamin|work=]|date=June 28, 2019|access-date=January 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113212010/https://roadtrippers.com/magazine/route-66-antiquity-reigns-supreme/|archive-date=January 13, 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> In 1959, a local organization sent away for the stone to preserve the town's Irish image.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.texasmonthly.com/articles/texas-tidbits-52/|title=Kissing a rock in West Texas will bring you luck—and that's no Blarney|last=Donnelly|first=Erin|work=]|date=March 2002|access-date=January 13, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210113212351/https://www.texasmonthly.com/articles/texas-tidbits-52/|archive-date=January 13, 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> Irish resistance to the stone leaving its homeland led to the stone being escorted by guards and an armored truck.

===Festivals and celebrations===
Two annual social gatherings are organized each year to celebrate the founder's heritage. The annual St. Patrick's Celebration is held on the weekend closest to St Patrick's Day. Irish Craftfest is held annually the first weekend of October at the Shamrock Area Community Center.


==Education== ==Education==
The City of Shamrock is served by the ]. The City of Shamrock is served by the ] and home to the ] Irish.


==Infrastructure==
==National Register of Historic Places==
The Shamrock Municipal Airport serves the city and is located east of Shamrock, just north of Interstate 40.
*]


===Major highways===
* ]
* ]
* ]

==Notable people==
*], singer and songwriter
*], songwriter, musician and vocalist; longtime songwriting associate of ]
*], Kansas state legislator
*], artist and quilter
*], reared in Shamrock; ] from ] from 1941 to 1950

==In popular culture==
Shamrock was mentioned in the first season of the 2000 sitcom ], episode 13, "Jimmy's Jimmy," when Jimmy's best friend, Billy, reported the rear axle fell off his Subaru Brat in Shamrock en route to California.

Shamrock was featured in Ken Block’s film Gymkhana 10, With Ken driving a heavily modified Ford pickup, doing extreme stunts.


==References== ==References==
{{reflist}} {{Reflist|30em}}
{{notelist}}


==External links== ==External links==
{{commonscat|Shamrock, Texas}}
*
* {{Handbook of Texas|id=hgs08|name=Shamrock, Texas}}
*
* *
*
{{Mapit-US-cityscale|35.217116|-100.247171}}


{{Wheeler County, Texas}} {{Wheeler County, Texas}}


{{authority control}}


] ]
] ]
] ]
]

]
]
]

Latest revision as of 16:43, 16 October 2024

City in the United States

City in Texas, United States
Shamrock, Texas
City
Historic U-Drop Inn, a Conoco fuel station restoration in Art Deco style along U.S. Route 66 in ShamrockHistoric U-Drop Inn, a Conoco fuel station restoration in Art Deco style along U.S. Route 66 in Shamrock
Location in Wheeler County and the state of Texas.Location in Wheeler County and the state of Texas.
Coordinates: 35°13′02″N 100°14′50″W / 35.21722°N 100.24722°W / 35.21722; -100.24722
CountryUnited States
StateTexas
CountyWheeler
First Settled1890
Incorporated1911
Area
 • Total2.05 sq mi (5.30 km)
 • Land2.05 sq mi (5.30 km)
 • Water0.00 sq mi (0.00 km)
Elevation2,333 ft (711 m)
Population
 • Total1,789
Time zoneUTC-6 (Central (CST))
 • Summer (DST)UTC-5 (CDT)
ZIP code79079
Area code806
FIPS code48-67160
GNIS feature ID2411875
Websitewww.shamrocktexas.net
Downtown Shamrock on U.S. Highway 83
U.S. Post Office in Shamrock

Shamrock is a city in Wheeler County, Texas, United States. As of the 2020 Census, the city had a total population of 1,789. The city is located in the eastern portion of the Texas Panhandle, centered along the crossroads of Interstate 40 (formerly U.S. Route 66) and U.S. Route 83. It is 110 miles (180 km) east of Amarillo, 188 miles (303 km) west of Oklahoma City, and 291 miles (468 km) northwest of Dallas.

History

Located in south-central Wheeler County, Shamrock was the largest town in the county in the late 19th century. George and Dora Nickel consented to keep the first post office in their dugout there in 1890. The mail was to be carried once a week from Mobeetie, Texas. The neighbors decided to let George name the office. His Irish-American mother had told him always to depend on a shamrock to bring him good luck, so holding true to his Irish descent, he suggested "Shamrock" for the name of the office. When a mysterious fire destroyed his dugout, however, George Nickel's post office never opened. Mary Ruth Jones became Shamrock's first postmistress, running the Shamrock post office out of the Jones family home.

In 1902, the Chicago, Rock Island and Gulf Railway set up a station in the town, calling it "Wheeler" like the county, but later changing it back to the original name of Shamrock in 1903, which prompted the reopening of the Shamrock post office. By 1907, the town was competing with the towns of Story and Benonine as trade centers.

The town continued its growth as other businesses moved into the city, including the county newspaper, which moved from Story and renamed itself from the Wheeler County Texan to the Shamrock Texan, several banks, and Shamrock Cotton Oil Mill. In 1911, E. L. Woodley became the mayor of the newly incorporated city. In 1926, the discovery of oil and the operation of natural gas wells by Shamrock Gas Company helped spur the city's continuing growth. A decline in the oil industry caused the population to drop in the 1940s, but it rebounded in the next decade with the improvement of Route 66. By the 1980s, the town was home to an established modern school system, a chemical plant, oil and gas processing plants, and a hospital.

At its peak in 1930, Shamrock had a population of 3,778. Despite some rebounds, the city population continues to fluctuate. According to the 2020 census, the city population has dropped to its second lowest recorded point with 1,789 residents. Despite this, Shamrock remains the second-largest city on the Texas segment of Route 66, after Amarillo.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 2.1 square miles (5.4 km), all land.

Climate

Climate data for Shamrock, Texas
Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year
Mean daily maximum °F (°C) 48
(9) 		54
(12) 		62
(17) 		72
(22) 		79
(26) 		88
(31) 		93
(34) 		92
(33) 		84
(29) 		73
(23) 		59
(15) 		50
(10) 		71
(22)
Mean daily minimum °F (°C) 23
(−5) 		27
(−3) 		35
(2) 		44
(7) 		54
(12) 		64
(18) 		68
(20) 		67
(19) 		59
(15) 		47
(8) 		34
(1) 		26
(−3) 		46
(8)
Average precipitation inches (mm) 0.56
(14) 		0.84
(21) 		1.88
(48) 		2.19
(56) 		3.92
(100) 		3.74
(95) 		2.17
(55) 		2.27
(58) 		2.83
(72) 		1.92
(49) 		1.17
(30) 		0.83
(21) 		24.32
(619)
Source: weather.com

Demographics

Historical population
CensusPop.Note%±
19201,227—
19303,780208.1%
19403,123−17.4%
19503,3226.4%
19603,113−6.3%
19702,644−15.1%
19802,8347.2%
19902,286−19.3%
20002,029−11.2%
20101,910−5.9%
20201,789−6.3%
U.S. Decennial Census

2020 United States Census

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,789 people residing in the city.

Economy

As of the 2021 American Community Survey, the median household income in Shamrock was $38,958. 22.1% of all people in Shamrock live below the poverty line.

Demographics

As of the 2021 American Community Survey, the median age in Shamrock was 36.7.

Population by Race (2020)
Race Number Percentage
White alone 1,370 76.6%
Black or African American alone 69 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native alone 33 1.8%
Asian alone 23 1.3%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone 2 0.11%
Some Other Race alone 146 8.3%
Population of two or more races 146 8.3%
Total 1,789

2000 United States Census

As of the census of 2000, 2,029 people, 852 households, and 550 families resided in the city.

Economy

The median income for a household in the city was $25,776, and for a family was $33,542. Males had a median income of $24,688 versus $16,944 for females. The per capita income for the city was $13,724. About 22.7% of families and 21.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.7% of those under age 18 and 20.0% of those age 65 or over.

Demographics

The racial makeup of the city was 85.26% White, 4.83% African American, 1.38% Native American, 0.99% Asian, 0.20% Pacific Islander, 5.91% from other races, and 1.43% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents of any race were 13.41% of the population.

Of the 852 households, 28.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.7% were married couples living together, 9.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 35.4% were not families. About 33.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 17.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.33 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the city, the population was distributed as 25.3% under the age of 18, 6.3% from 18 to 24, 23.7% from 25 to 44, 22.4% from 45 to 64, and 22.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.1 males.

Arts and culture

"Top O' the Mornin' to Ya'" slogan in Shamrock, Texas, which hosts an annual St. Patrick's Day observance
Pioneer West Museum is housed in the former Reynolds Hotel in Shamrock.

U-Drop Inn

Main article: U-Drop Inn

In 1936, the U-Drop Inn was built at the intersection of U.S. Route 83 and the now historic Route 66. At the time of opening, the U-Drop was the only café within 100 miles (160 km) of Shamrock, enjoying brisk business and becoming a successful establishment. Once considered a beautiful and impressive example of Route 66 architecture in Texas, the U-Drop Inn fell into disrepair with the decommissioning of Route 66. Referred to as "one of the most impressive examples" of Route 66 architecture by the Texas Historical Commission, the U-Drop Inn was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. In May 1999, the First National Bank of Shamrock purchased the then-closed U-Drop Inn and gave it to the city of Shamrock. With a $1.7 million federal grant, the city was able to hire a firm specializing in historical renovation to restore the building to its original condition and adapt it into a museum, visitors' center, gift shop, and the city's chamber of commerce. The revived U-Drop Inn was featured in the 2006 animated film Cars as the inspiration for the fictional Ramone's body shop.

Pioneer West Museum

Fort Elliot, home of the 10th Cavalry, display at Pioneer West Museum

The Old Reynolds Hotel, a historic building, was saved from demolition and converted into a museum by local residents. The building with 25 rooms was turned into an exhibition hall with pioneer artifacts, typical objects of settlers, and Native American arrowheads. The exhibits range from local historical objects to a space exhibit to a military history exhibit.

Blarney Stone

Blarney Stone in Shamrock

A kissable chunk of Ireland's Blarney Stone is located in Shamrock. In 1959, a local organization sent away for the stone to preserve the town's Irish image. Irish resistance to the stone leaving its homeland led to the stone being escorted by guards and an armored truck.

Festivals and celebrations

Two annual social gatherings are organized each year to celebrate the founder's heritage. The annual St. Patrick's Celebration is held on the weekend closest to St Patrick's Day. Irish Craftfest is held annually the first weekend of October at the Shamrock Area Community Center.

Education

The City of Shamrock is served by the Shamrock Independent School District and home to the Shamrock High School Irish.

Infrastructure

The Shamrock Municipal Airport serves the city and is located east of Shamrock, just north of Interstate 40.

Major highways

Notable people

In popular culture

Shamrock was mentioned in the first season of the 2000 sitcom Yes, Dear, episode 13, "Jimmy's Jimmy," when Jimmy's best friend, Billy, reported the rear axle fell off his Subaru Brat in Shamrock en route to California.

Shamrock was featured in Ken Block’s film Gymkhana 10, With Ken driving a heavily modified Ford pickup, doing extreme stunts.

References

  1. "2019 U.S. Gazetteer Files". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved August 7, 2020.
  2. ^ U.S. Geological Survey Geographic Names Information System: Shamrock, Texas
  3. ^ "U.S. Census website". United States Census Bureau. Retrieved January 31, 2008.
  4. "Shamrock city, Texas - Census Bureau Profile". Retrieved July 4, 2022.
  5. "Shamrock, Texas Detailed Profile". City-Data.com. Retrieved March 21, 2008.
  6. ^ Anderson, H. Allen (January 18, 2008). "Shamrock, TX". Handbook of Texas (Online Edition). Texas State Historical Association. Archived from the original on January 12, 2008. Retrieved March 21, 2008.
  7. "Monthly Averages for Shamrock, TX". Weather.com. Retrieved April 14, 2008.
  8. "Census of Population and Housing". Census.gov. Retrieved June 4, 2015.
  9. "Shamrock city, Texas - Census Bureau Profile". Retrieved July 4, 2023.
  10. "Shamrock city, Texas - Census Bureau Profile". Retrieved July 4, 2023.
  11. "S0101: AGE AND SEX - Census Bureau Table". Retrieved July 4, 2023.
  12. "P1: RACE - Census Bureau Table". Retrieved July 4, 2023.
  13. Witzel, Michael (April 28, 2003). "Chapter 2: Filling Circumstances: Highway Pump and Circumstance". Route 66 Remembered. Osceola, Wisconsin: Motorbooks International. p. 79. ISBN 0-7603-1498-5. OCLC 51234105.
  14. Witzel, Russel Olsen (May 1, 2004). "Texas". Route 66, Lost & Found: Ruins and Relics Revisited. Osceola, Wisconsin: Motorbooks International. p. 84. ISBN 0-7603-1854-9. OCLC 55482301.
  15. ^ Degrood, Thomas J. (July–August 2005). "Roadside Renewal". Texas Architect. 55 (4). Texas Society of Architects: 42–43.
  16. Juozapavicius, Justin (May 2, 2007). "Route 66 Motels an Endangered Species". ABC News. Archived from the original on April 2, 2008. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  17. Rhodes, Andy (2004). "The Mother Road: Nostalgia Drives Visitors to Experience Route 66 in the Texas Panhandle" (PDF). The Medallion. March–April 2004. Texas Historical Commission: 10–13. Archived from the original (PDF) on November 20, 2007. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  18. "Texas – Wheeler County". National Register of Historic Places. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  19. "Shamrock celebrates St. Patrick's Day in the Panhandle". The Dallas Morning News. March 4, 2008. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  20. "Drive 66 (East): Old Route 66 Association of Texas". Mock Turtle Press and Old Route 66 Association of Texas. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  21. "Tower Station and U-Drop Inn" (PDF). Architexas. Archived from the original (PDF) on December 5, 2008. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  22. "Shamrock Texas U-Drop Inn". Legends of America. Archived from the original on April 3, 2008. Retrieved March 22, 2008.
  23. Preston, Benjamin (June 28, 2019). "Route 66: Where the past slowly reveals itself and antiquity reigns supreme". Roadtrippers. Archived from the original on January 13, 2021. Retrieved January 13, 2021.
  24. Donnelly, Erin (March 2002). "Kissing a rock in West Texas will bring you luck—and that's no Blarney". Texas Monthly. Archived from the original on January 13, 2021. Retrieved January 13, 2021.

External links

Municipalities and communities of Wheeler County, Texas, United States
County seat: Wheeler
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