Fairmont Historian Recalls Iconic Rock ‘n Roll Era

In Fairmont’s historical narrative of the 1960s and 1970s, Tom Tourville, a local historian, recounts the town’s rock ‘n roll glory days to an audience at the Martin County Historical Society. A native of Fairmont, Tourville takes pride in having authored 31 books on Midwest music, all of which are housed in the Library of Congress – a testament to his dedication and passion for preserving this cultural heritage.

Reflecting on the vibrant music scene of the past, Tourville emphasizes the significance of documenting the era’s rock ‘n roll bands and their contributions. He cites iconic groups like The Antagonists, The Epicureans, The Brotherhood, The Black Viscounts, and The Henchmen as integral parts of Fairmont’s musical landscape that deserve recognition and remembrance.

Central to Fairmont’s music scene were the ballrooms that served as venues for live performances. Particularly noteworthy was the Interlaken Ballroom, which hosted an array of bands from Minneapolis and beyond. Tourville reminisces about the thrill of sneaking into the Interlaken after his lifeguard shifts at the Yacht Club, where he had the opportunity to interact with musicians, soak in the atmosphere, and revel in the music.

Following the Interlaken’s closure in 1972, Mr. C’s Ballroom in Hands Park emerged as a new hub for rock ‘n roll in Fairmont. Tourville fondly recalls the three years of musical bliss at this venue, with bands like Cheap Trick gracing its stage. He also highlights the story of Whale Bone, a band featuring a mixed-race lineup that included Dez Dickerson, who later became a guitarist for Prince and the Revolution, leaving a lasting mark on the music industry.

Apart from his personal experiences, Tourville credits his father, Bill Tourville, for playing a pivotal role in shaping his rock ‘n roll journey. Through his father’s guidance, Tourville learned the art of booking bands and honed his entrepreneurial skills, eventually funding his college education through these endeavors.

In a poignant moment of connection with his father, Tourville recounts an evening where they bonded over a local rock ‘n roll band in Fairmont. As he shares his memories and insights with the audience, Tourville underscores the universal love for rock ‘n roll that transcends generations, inviting everyone to embrace and celebrate this shared cultural heritage.

As a Fairmont native deeply invested in preserving the town’s rock ‘n roll legacy, Tourville’s recounting of the glory days serves as a tribute to the vibrant music scene that once thrived in the community. Through his writings and presentations, he ensures that the stories of Fairmont’s rock ‘n roll pioneers and their enduring impact endure for generations to come.