The music lives on
ATTRACTIONS
By Rachel Wumkes
The historic Surf Ballroom and Museum has been a destination of bustling activity for years. Musicians book the venue on their way across the Midwest. The rich history of the building is embedded into the narrative of Rock ‘n Roll but recognized across every genre in the industry. It is touted that at the Surf, the “Music Lives On.” It did not die in a plane crash that fateful night in February, because it continues to beat within the hearts of music lovers across the globe. And then, seemingly without warning, a pandemic swept across the nation, shuddering the doors to live music venues everywhere. Including the Surf.
a National Historic Landmark in January 2021. Inclusion on the National Register provides nationwide recognition of a property’s historical or architectural significance and denotes that it is worthy of preservation. A true honor for the Surf Ballroom and the entire community of Clear Lake. It was a much-needed bright spot after such a trying year. And so, until bands can make a comeback onto the live music scene, we recommend soaking up the history of the Surf Ballroom by taking the self-guided walking tour or visiting the crash site. There is plenty of memorabilia to see regarding the past as we wait with anticipation for the return of live music at the Surf Ballroom.
For the first time in history, the hope that we hold onto, keeping the music alive… faded. That feeling, however, only lasted for a fleeting moment in time. A slew of donors, legacy members and grants kept the Surf Ballroom afloat, showing that the music truly does live on. Most recently, the Surf Ballroom received the most honorable accolade, being named as
Cypress Room Previously known as the SurfSide 6 Lounge/Cafe, this area functioned as a gathering area for dancers to take a break between songs and enjoy refreshments. Today, the lounge functions primarily as museum space filled with music memorabilia, authentic artifacts and photos of the many famous artists who have performed here.
January 13, 2021 The US Department of the Interior designated the Surf Ballroom as a National Historic Landmark, recognizing the Surf’s enduring role in the history of American Music. The Surf Ballroom is Iowa’s 27th National Historic Landmark. The Surf was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2011; and in 2009 was dedicated by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a historic rock and roll landmark as part of their ongoing Landmark Series. The Surf was inducted into the Iowa Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1998, three years after undergoing a historic rehabilitation lead by the Dean Snyder family of Clear Lake.
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Three Stars Plaza Located one block west of the Surf’s front entrance, this circular park plays off of the musical significance of the Surf Ballroom and honors the final performance of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson. The monument was built and dedicated in 2011 and features an art deco inspired central spindle, holding three 45 records in a position “ready to play”. At night, it is beautifully lit with bright blue neon lights around each of the records.
Green Room Marvel at the Surf’s famous Green Room where decades of performers have left their mark.
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