Encyclopedia Dubuque
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Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
CRYSTAL BALLROOM
CRYSTAL BALLROOM. Developed by Edward C. Bartels in CENTER GROVE, the Crystal Ballroom was located at LUTHER PARK along Highway 20 and Cedar Cross Road.
The opening night was November 29, Thanksgiving night, 1928. Newspaper accounts at the time described the interior being of a Spanish design with several lighting effects. The dance floor was 70 x 100 feet with additional space for those who only wished to watch the dancers.
The opening attraction was Zez Confrey, "America's famous novelty pianist" and his Victor recording orchestra of twelve musicians. INTERSTATE POWER COMPANY operated busses from the west end of the car line to the ballroom beginning at 8:00 p.m. and continuing until 1:00 a.m. (1)
The ballroom later was sold and converted into an outdoor advertising company. (2)
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Source:
1. Telegraph Herald, November 25, 1928, p. 4
2. "Way Back When," Telegraph Herald, June 24, 1959, p. 26