Surf Ballroom facts for kids
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Surf Ballroom
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The Surf as it looked in February 1988
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 Location in Iowa
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| Location | Clear Lake, Iowa |
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| Built | 1948 |
| NRHP reference No. | 10000261, 100006243 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | September 6, 2011 |
| Designated NHL | January 13, 2021 |
The Surf Ballroom (also called the Surf) is a famous music venue in Clear Lake, Iowa, United States. It is known as a Historic Rock and Roll Landmark. Many people remember the Surf because of a sad event called "The Day the Music Died".
On February 2, 1959, three early rock and roll stars played their last show here. These musicians were Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J. P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson. They were part of a concert series called the "Winter Dance Party Tour".
The Surf Ballroom became a part of the National Register of Historic Places on September 6, 2011. Later, in 2021, it was named a National Historic Landmark. This means it is a very important place in American history.
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Why is it Called the Surf Ballroom?
The first Surf Ballroom opened on April 17, 1933. The owners wanted visitors to feel like they were at a beach club. They painted murals of ocean waves, boats, and palm trees on the walls.
The furniture was made of bamboo and rattan. This made the place feel like a South Sea Islands getaway. Fake palm trees stand on each side of the stage. Clouds are painted on the ceiling, making it feel like you are dancing outdoors by the ocean. The ballroom is also very close to a lake, which might also be why it's called the "Surf."
History of the Surf Ballroom
The original Surf Ballroom burned down on April 20, 1947. The fire caused about $250,000 in damage. A new Surf Ballroom was built across the street. It reopened on July 1, 1948.
Today, the Surf Ballroom still hosts many events all year long. It can hold up to 2,100 people. It also has a large dance floor that is about 6,300-square-foot (590 m2).
Inside the building, you can find a museum with music items. There is also a "Wall of Fame" that shows many famous artists who have played there. You can also buy souvenirs at the gift shop.
The Snyder family of Clear Lake owns the Surf Ballroom. It is open to the public every day. The outside of the building looks almost the same as it did in the 1950s.
Backstage, there is a special area called "The Green Room." Many artists who have performed at the Surf have signed their names on the walls. These include bands like Little River Band and Loverboy. Famous singers like The Righteous Brothers and The Temptations have also signed. Even The Beach Boys and Waylon Jennings (who played bass for Buddy Holly) have left their mark.
In 1998, the Surf Ballroom was added to the Iowa Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum also named it a historical landmark. This happened on January 27, 2009. This event started a week-long celebration. It marked 50 years since the "Winter Dance Party" concert and the sad events of February 3, 1959.
The Day the Music Died
After their show at the Surf, Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J. P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson left. They went to the nearby Mason City airport. They hired a small plane to fly them to Fargo, North Dakota. They needed to get ready for their next show in Moorhead, Minnesota.
The plane took off just after midnight on February 3, 1959. Soon after takeoff, the plane crashed. Everyone on board died in the accident.
Today, there is a concrete monument outside the Surf Ballroom. It honors the three musicians. Inside, large pictures of them hang on the walls. A street next to the building is named Buddy Holly Place.
Winter Dance Party Tribute Event
Since 1979, the Surf Ballroom has hosted a special event every February. It is called the "Winter Dance Party" tribute show. This event honors the lives and music of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper.
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See also
In Spanish: Surf Ballroom para niños
