Join Alexa McDowell, A.KAY Consulting Owner and Architectural Historian, as she discusses the multi-faceted history of the Surf Ballroom. Nationally recognized as the final performance venue of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and J.P. (The Big Bopper) Richardson, the Surf Ballroom also illustrates the role of small venues in bringing both big-name and rising stars to towns across the MidWest; the establishment of touring as a viable tool for promoting musicians; the reality of 1950s race discrimination; the beauty of Modern architecture; and the staying power of this Iowa icon.
Iowa History 101: Iowa's Newest National Historic Landmark - The Surf Ballroom and its place in the themes of American history
- Thursday, May 13, 2021 - 12:00pm
- Featured, Dept. of Cultural Affairs, History, Education
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