CLEAR LAKE – North Iowa’s legendary concert venue is unveiling its latest honor.
The Surf Ballroom has earned a listing on the National Registry of Historic Places.
During a news conference this afternoon, a plaque was unveiled marking the designation and it will be placed on display for visitors to see.
The current ballroom opened in the summer of 1948 and has hosted countless performers, pageants and other shows.
In its application to get the designation, the Surf’s management referenced its unique Art Moderne architectural style, its beach club themed interior and extensive history.
They also emphasized the Surf’s historic association with the history of rock and roll and its being the final performance venue of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. (The Big Bopper) Richardson in 1959.
The venue holds an annual celebration of their musical contributions known as the Winter Dance Party, which will begin a 4 day run of special events beginning today.
The Surf’s historic association has also been enhanced by the development of a museum component to help relay the story of Buddy Holly at the Surf and of the ballroom’s role in the history of rock and roll.
In 1998 the Surf was inducted into the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and in 2009 the American Rock and Roll Hall of Fame designated the Surf Ballroom as an official rock and roll landmark as the final performance venue of Holly, Richardson and Valens.
Along with the honor of receiving the designation, the registry listing is expected to make it easier for the Surf’s management to apply for and receive certain grants that could be used for future projects or possible renovation and repairs.
Video: An extended tribute to Freddie Milano, a founding member of The Belmonts, who last performed at the Surf Ballroom at the Winter Dance Party event in 2008.
