You're correct. I think the Ventures mainly covered other peoples music.
It was the Surfaris. I saw them perform it in the early 60s, as the opening band, at a local HS concert with Eric Burdon & The Animals. 1965, I think.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000014U7/103-3065912-7866223?v=glance&n=5174
The Ventures were the ultimate training band for many a guitarist.I learned a lot by playing them on the record player at half speed.You had the time to figure out the licks,and then speed it up.They did play mostly instrumentals.Dwayne Eddy was another influential guitar player that was Vouge during the 60s.They were great.