When Henry Ford put America on wheels, the whole country's population became potential texas vacation tourists - and a tourist needed a place to 'camp' at night. Thus was born the 'tourist camp'. Rockdale's Rainbow Tourist Camp was a 1918 addition to the Milam County landscape. Highway 79 wasn't yet paved, but that didn't stop Monroe Bullock from building an 'oasis' for tourists on their texas vacations and migrant workers alike. His bother, Ira Benjamin Bullock, joined him at the Rainbow in the early 1930's and they became a texas vacation bed and breakfast business before 'Bed and Breakfast' was all the rage. Inexpensive meals (25 cents or less) included huge country breakfasts that consisted of Ham, Sausage, Grits, Biscuits, Bacon, Eggs, Chicken Fried Steak, Gravy, Fried Chicken and Potatoes - an enormous banquet. Hot cereal, cream and butter were staples. Fruits and vegetables grown on-site were canned, jellied and preserved from the 20's through the 70's and intermittently, even today.

The Rainbow is popular and comfortable and has many a story to tell. Joan and Dan Ratliff bought the Rainbow Courts from Joan's mother, Marjorie Crockett, in 1992. Joan's grandfather was Ira Benjamin Bullock so it followed that the Rainbow would stay 'in the family. Joan and Dan promptly began renovation in several of the cottages. Since they have traveled a lot on business, it was natural that they would incorporate the most feasible and inviting features of the hotels in which they've stayed. The personal touch they've contributed to the Rainbow is beyond any I've seen over the years. If you can be intoxicated by comfort - lulled by loving attention, charm and generosity, then, the Rainbow Courts Motel Bed & Breakfast is for your next texas vacations - a truely 'comforting' experience!