Clear Lake lands $50K T-Mobile grant to build world’s largest Buddy Holly guitar

CLEAR LAKE, Iowa — Clear Lake has been selected as one of 26 communities nationwide to receive a grant in the final round of T-Mobile’s Hometown Grants program.

The Surf Ballroom North Iowa Cultural Center and Museum will receive $50,000 to fund construction of the world’s largest 1954 Sunburst Fender Stratocaster — a 31-foot replica of the guitar made famous by rock and roll pioneer Buddy Holly. The landmark would anchor the city’s Surf District, drawing visitors from around the world while celebrating American musical heritage and boosting year-round economic activity in the area.

T-Mobile’s Hometown Grants initiative has invested more than $22.8 million in 500 community projects across 49 states and Puerto Rico since launching in 2021. The program has reached an estimated 4.2 million people, generated nearly $125 million in matching funds, inspired more than 300,000 volunteer hours and helped create more than 2,770 jobs nationwide. Iowa communities have received more than $730,000 across 15 towns through the program, including Washington, Iowa, which was also named a recipient in this round.

T-Mobile will present the grant check this Friday, June 26, from 6 to 6:30 p.m. at the Surf Ballroom, located at 460 North Shore Drive in Clear Lake. The event is open to media and community members, with interviews and photo opportunities available.