Founded in 1946, Crestliner has a rich history in Batavia, Illinois. The company was originally established by two brothers, David and Peter Engelbrecht, who were passionate about fishing and boating. Their vision was to create high-quality aluminum boats that would provide superior performance on the water. The Engelbrecht brothers began their venture in an old chicken coop located just outside of Batavia. They started out with a small team of craftsmen and focused on hand-building each boat with precision and attention to detail. This dedication to quality quickly earned them a reputation for producing some of the best aluminum boats on the market. In 1953, Crestliner moved its operations from the chicken coop to a larger facility within Batavia city limits. This move allowed for increased production and expansion of their product line. The company continued to grow over the next few years as they introduced new models such as the Muskie King – one of their most popular fishing boats at the time. By 1960, Crestliner had gained national recognition for its exceptional craftsmanship and reliable performance on the water. As demand grew, so did their workforce which now included skilled designers, engineers, welders, painters, upholsterers and more. In 1971, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner as part of its expanding marine division. Under Brunswick’s ownership, Crestliner continued to thrive in Batavia while also being able to leverage resources from other companies under Brunswick’s umbrella such as Mercury Marine engines and Sea Ray yachts. Throughout this period of growth and change within Crestliner's ownership structure from private family business to corporate conglomerate; one thing remained constant – their commitment to building top-notch aluminum boats that could withstand any condition or challenge thrown at them. In addition to manufacturing excellence, Crestliner also became known for its innovation during this time period. In 1991 they launched "UniWeld" technology which revolutionized how aluminum boats were built. This new process made the boat hulls stronger, more durable and resistant to corrosion. In 2006, Crestliner returned to its roots as a family-owned business when it was acquired by Brunswick's Lund Boat Company. The company continues to operate in Batavia today with over 300 employees dedicated to producing top-quality fishing and recreational boats. Crestliner's commitment to quality has not wavered throughout its history in Batavia. Their skilled craftsmen still hand-build each boat with precision and attention to detail, ensuring that every vessel meets their high standards for performance and durability on the water. Aside from their dedication to building superior boats, Crestliner has also been actively involved in the local community of Batavia. They have sponsored various events such as fishing tournaments, charity fundraisers, and environmental awareness campaigns. Additionally, they have partnered with organizations like Fishing Has No Boundaries – an organization that provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities to experience fishing. Over the years, Crestliner has received numerous awards and accolades for their products including multiple "Boat of the Year" awards from Boating Magazine and "Best Aluminum Fishing Boat" by Field & Stream magazine. Today,Crestliner remains a staple of Batavia's economy providing employment opportunities for hundreds of residents while also contributing significantly to the city’s tax base. In conclusion, Crestliner's long-standing presence in Batavia is a testament not only to their success as a company but also their commitment to excellence in both product quality and community involvement. As they continue into the future under Lund Boat Company ownership; we can be confident that Crestliner will remain a leader in aluminum boat manufacturing while remaining true to its roots in Batavia.
Crestliner is a renowned brand in the marine industry, known for its high-quality and durable boats. Founded in 1946 by William Morser Sr., Crestliner has been providing customers with superior craftsmanship and innovative designs for over 70 years. The company's journey began when Morser purchased an aluminum fabrication business located on the banks of the Mississippi River in Little Falls, Minnesota. With his passion for fishing and expertise in metalworking, he saw an opportunity to create a better boat that would withstand the harsh conditions of freshwater lakes. Thus, Crestliner was born. From its humble beginnings as a small family-owned business, Crestliner has grown into one of the most trusted names in boating. The company's commitment to quality and innovation has allowed it to expand its product line from small fishing boats to include pontoons, sportfishers, and even premium fiberglass models. One of Crestliner's key strengths lies in its use of top-of-the-line materials combined with advanced manufacturing techniques. The company utilizes rugged .100 gauge aluminum alloy sheets that are cut using computer-controlled machinery for precise shaping and welding. This process ensures that each boat is built with precision and consistency, resulting in a strong yet lightweight vessel. Crestliner also takes great pride in its design process. The team at Crestliner works closely with experienced anglers to understand their needs and preferences before creating new models or making updates to existing ones. This customer-centric approach allows them to build boats that meet the specific demands of different types of fishermen – whether they're chasing bass on inland waters or trolling for salmon out on the Great Lakes. In addition to durability and functionality, Crestliner also places importance on aesthetics when designing their boats. Each model features sleek lines and modern styling elements that not only enhance performance but also make them stand out on the water. Moreover, safety is another crucial aspect considered by Crestliner during production. All models undergo rigorous testing procedures to ensure they meet or exceed safety standards set by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC). This commitment to safety has earned Crestliner a reputation for producing some of the most reliable boats in the industry. Crestliner's dedication to quality is also reflected in its extensive warranty coverage. Each boat comes with a limited lifetime warranty on hulls, decks, and transoms – showcasing their confidence in their product's durability. They also offer an extended 5-year bow-to-stern warranty on all new models, giving customers peace of mind when purchasing a Crestliner boat. Aside from its excellent craftsmanship and design, Crestliner is also recognized for its customer service. The company maintains strong relationships with dealers across North America who are trained and equipped to provide exceptional support for customers. Whether it's helping them choose the right model or providing maintenance tips, Crestliner's team is always willing to go above and beyond for their customers. In recent years, Crestliner has taken steps towards sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices into their production processes. Their aluminum scraps are recycled back into raw materials while using energy-efficient techniques reduces waste during manufacturing. These efforts have earned them recognition as one of Minnesota Business Magazine’s “100 Best Companies To Work For” and “Greenest Companies.” Today, under Brunswick Corporation ownership since 2005, Crestliner continues to thrive as one of the top brands in boating. With cutting-edge technology combined with traditional values passed down through generations, they remain committed to delivering high-quality boats that cater to diverse needs and lifestyles. In conclusion, Crestliner has established itself as a leader in the marine industry through its unwavering dedication to quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, superior performance on water bodies worldwide backed by unmatched customer service. As they continue forward into the future with advancements in technology and sustainable practices at hand – there is no doubt that this iconic brand will continue to exceed expectations and provide customers with the ultimate boating experience.
Crestliner, a leading manufacturer of aluminum fishing boats, has a rich history in Batavia, Illinois. The company was founded in 1946 by William Morser Sr. and his two sons, Willis and John Morser. They started the business with just three employees and operated out of a small basement workshop. The Morsers had a passion for fishing and saw an opportunity to create high-quality aluminum boats that were both durable and affordable. They named their company Crestline Boat Company after the nearby town of Crestline, Ohio where they grew up. In 1950, the company moved from its basement location to a larger facility on South River Street in Batavia. This expansion allowed them to increase production and offer more boat models to meet growing demand. The Morsers also changed the spelling of their company name from Crestline to Crestliner during this time. By the 1960s, Crestliner had become one of the top-selling aluminum boat brands in North America. In response to increasing demand for bigger boats with more features, they introduced fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) hulls into their product line. In 1973, Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which also owned other well-known marine brands such as Evinrude and Johnson motors. OMC invested heavily in expanding Crestliner's manufacturing capabilities and marketing efforts. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner continued to grow throughout the 1980s and 1990s with new innovations like welded seams instead of rivets for increased durability and strength. They also added new boat styles such as pontoon boats for leisure cruising along with fishing models. However, things took a turn when OMC filed for bankruptcy protection in December 2000 due to financial troubles caused by declining sales across all its brands including Evinrude/Johnson Motors which stopped operating shortly after closing down operations at their Waukegan, Illinois plant and moving production to Sturtevant, Wisconsin. In 2001, Crestliner was acquired by Genmar Holdings Inc., a leading boat manufacturing company based in Minnesota. Under Genmar's leadership, Crestliner continued to thrive and introduced new models such as the Kodiak series designed for extreme fishing conditions. In 2010, Brunswick Corporation acquired both Genmar Holdings and Crestliner. This acquisition brought together two of the most iconic brands in the marine industry - Brunswick with its renowned Mercury Marine engines and accessories, and Crestliner with its innovative designs and high-quality aluminum boats. Today, Crestliner continues to operate out of Batavia where it employs over 300 people at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on South River Street. The company offers a wide range of fishing boats including deep-V hulls for rough waters, flat-bottomed boats for shallow lakes or rivers along with pontoons that are great for leisure cruising. Crestliner has come a long way from its humble beginnings in a basement workshop to becoming one of the top names in aluminum fishing boats. Its history in Batavia is not only a testament to the hard work and dedication of its founders but also reflects the town's strong tradition of craftsmanship and innovation.
Batavia, Illinois is a charming and historic city located in Kane County, approximately 40 miles west of Chicago. With its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and strong community spirit, Batavia has become a beloved destination for both residents and visitors alike. The history of Batavia dates back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by European immigrants. The name "Batavia" came from the Dutch term for the area's native Potawatomi tribe - "Betuwe". In 1833, Judge Samuel McCarty became one of the first permanent settlers in Batavia and established a sawmill along the banks of the Fox River. This marked the beginning of industrialization in Batavia as more mills were built along with thriving industries such as quarrying and brick-making. One of Batavia's most significant historical events was its role in housing prisoners during World War II. In December 1943, Camp Grant was converted into an internment camp for Japanese Americans who had been forcibly removed from their homes on the West Coast after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor. Over 2,000 people were held at this camp until it closed in October 1945. Today, a memorial stands at Eastside Park to honor those who were unjustly detained there. In addition to its historical significance, Batavia is also known for being home to many innovators and inventors throughout its history. Notable residents include Mary Todd Lincoln's cousin Martha Minerva Franklin who invented modern-day fire escape ladders; John Gustafson who patented several key improvements to printing presses; and Arthur Latham Baker Jr., known as “the father” of modern bookbinding equipment. Today, Batavia continues to thrive with a population just over 26,000 people according to recent census data (2019). It maintains its small-town charm while offering modern amenities such as shopping centers and restaurants that cater to all tastes. One of the main attractions in Batavia is its beautiful downtown area. The downtown district is home to a variety of locally owned shops, restaurants, and businesses that add to the city's unique character. Visitors can stroll along the streets lined with historic brick buildings while taking in the charming atmosphere. Another must-visit spot in Batavia is the Fox River Bike Trail, which runs through the heart of the city. This 44-mile trail connects Batavia to other nearby towns such as St. Charles and Geneva and offers stunning views of nature along with access to recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. For those interested in history, there are several museums and landmarks worth exploring in Batavia. The Depot Museum showcases artifacts from Batavia's past including a replica of Camp Grant's barracks from World War II. Other notable sites include Fermilab - America's premier high-energy physics laboratory; Windmill City Festival Park - where visitors can see an authentic windmill brought over from Holland; and VanNortwick Mill – one of Illinois' oldest water-powered gristmills still standing today. Batavia also hosts many events throughout the year that attract both locals and tourists alike. One popular event is "Cruisin' Night" held every Wednesday during summer months when classic cars line up on Main Street for spectators to enjoy. In December, residents come together for "Christmas Walk" where local businesses offer holiday-themed activities while Santa Claus makes an appearance at City Hall. In addition to its rich history and community events, education plays a significant role in shaping Batavia’s identity as well. The public school system consistently ranks among one of Illinois’ highest performing districts with five elementary schools, two middle schools, one high school (Batavia High School),and one early childhood center within its boundaries. Furthermore,Batavia has been recognized nationally for its commitment to sustainability efforts by being designated as a “Green Community” by the Illinois Green Governments Coordinating Council. The city has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, promote renewable energy sources, and protect natural resources for future generations. In conclusion, Batavia is a unique and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history to modern amenities, from community events to outdoor recreation opportunities - there is always something new to discover in this charming Midwestern town. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a friendly place to call home, Batavia is not one to be missed.
Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, famous for its high-quality and durable boats. The company has been producing boats for over 70 years, making it one of the oldest boat manufacturers in North America. From humble beginnings to becoming a leader in the market, Crestliner's history is full of innovation, hard work, and dedication. The story of Crestliner began in Little Falls, Minnesota when two brothers - William Morser Lundeen and Willis Morser Lundeen - started building wooden duck hunting boats in their garage. They named their company "Lundeen Brothers Metal Craft" and focused on creating lightweight yet sturdy boats using aluminum. This was an innovative move at that time as most boat manufacturers were still using wood as their primary material. In 1946, the brothers changed the name to "Aluminum Boats & Canoes Inc." and introduced their first all-aluminum boat under the brand name "Cres-Liner". This boat had a unique design with flared sides that made it more stable than other models available at that time. The success of this model led them to rename their company once again to "Crest LIner Industries". As demand grew for these sturdy aluminum boats, Crestliner expanded its production facilities by acquiring another plant in New York Mills, Minnesota. In 1951 they launched another iconic model called "Sport King", which became an instant hit among fishermen due to its spacious deck space and smooth ride on water. In 1953 Willis left his brother's business venture to pursue other interests while William continued running Crest LIner Industries until he passed away in 1964. After his death, his son-in-law John Fries took over as president of the company. Under John Fries' leadership during the late 60s and early '70s era when fiberglass boats were gaining popularity; Crestliner remained committed to producing only aluminum models. The company stood by its decision and proved that aluminum boats could compete with fiberglass ones in terms of durability, performance, and design. In 1975 Crestliner was acquired by AMF (American Machine & Foundry) who had interests in other recreational industries such as bowling alleys, tennis balls, snowmobiles, bicycles, etc. This acquisition brought a new era for the brand as they introduced their first pontoon boat - "The Family Fisher" - which became an instant success among families looking for leisure boats. During this period Crestliner also experimented with creating inflatable boats made from rubber-coated fabric called "Duraprene". These models were marketed as lightweight and easy to transport but didn't catch on due to their high maintenance cost. In 1980 Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), a leading manufacturer of outboard motors at that time acquired Crestliner from AMF. OMC's vast resources enabled Crestliner to expand its product line further by introducing fish-and-ski boats and deep-v fishing models. However, during the late '80s recession hit OMC hard; they declared bankruptcy in 2000 causing them to sell off many of their assets including Crestliner. In 2003 Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner along with other brands like Lowe Boats and Lund Boats under its marine division Mercury Marine. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner continued to thrive and introduce new innovations in boat manufacturing techniques such as welded seams instead of rivets for added strength. They also expanded their production facilities by acquiring another plant in Little Falls where it all started back in 1946. Today Crest LIner Industries is one of the most technologically advanced boat manufacturers globally producing over thirty different models ranging from pontoons to fishing boats using both traditional aluminum construction methods and newer composite materials such as fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). Over the years, some things have remained constant at Crest LIner - their commitment to excellence and innovation. They continuously strive to create boats that not only meet but exceed customer expectations in terms of performance, durability, and design. In conclusion, Crestliner's history is a testament to the American dream - two brothers with a passion for building boats turned it into one of the most successful boat manufacturing companies in North America. From wooden duck hunting boats made in a small garage to state-of-the-art production facilities producing world-class aluminum and composite boats, Crestliner has come a long way. Their legacy continues as they remain at the forefront of boat manufacturing, providing customers with high-quality products that stand the test of time on water.
Crestliner is a renowned brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality aluminum fishing and recreational boats. The company has a rich history dating back to 1946 when it was founded by Charles Rippel in Little Falls, Minnesota. Rippel's vision was to create durable and affordable aluminum boats that could withstand the rugged waters of the Upper Mississippi River. He started with designing small rowboats and canoes using aluminum sheets from surplus military aircrafts. These early designs caught on quickly with local fishermen who appreciated their durability and stability. In 1953, Crestliner introduced its first welded-seam aluminum boat, setting a new standard for strength and reliability in the industry. This innovation propelled Crestliner into becoming one of the leading manufacturers of aluminum boats in North America. Throughout the following decades, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its product line to include models for both freshwater and saltwater fishing as well as recreational use. In 1970, they were acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which helped them increase production capacity and distribution channels. In 1981, Crestliner was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, one of the world's largest manufacturers of marine products. This partnership brought significant resources to help further improve design capabilities and expand market reach. The turn of the century saw another milestone for Crestliner when they introduced their revolutionary all-welded hull construction process called Uni-Weld Technology™. This technology allowed for stronger seams without compromising on weight or performance. Today, Crestliner offers an extensive lineup of over 50 different boat models ranging from small utility vessels to large sportfishing boats equipped with top-of-the-line features such as advanced sonar systems, GPS navigation systems, live wells, rod storage compartments, and more. Despite being part of a major corporation like Brunswick Corporation since 1981 until recently in May 2020 when Polaris Industries announced it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire the company, Crestliner has managed to maintain its small-town roots and commitment to quality craftsmanship. All their boats are still manufactured in Little Falls, Minnesota, by skilled craftsmen who take pride in every boat they build. In addition to producing high-quality boats, Crestliner is also dedicated to environmental sustainability. They have implemented several initiatives such as using recycled materials in their manufacturing process and partnering with organizations like the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Keep America Fishing® for conservation efforts. Crestliner's dedication to innovation, quality, and sustainability has made them one of the most trusted brands in the boating industry. With over 75 years of experience under their belt, Crestliner continues to push boundaries and set new standards for aluminum boats.
Batavia, Illinois is a small but vibrant city located in Kane County, approximately 40 miles west of Chicago. With a population of just over 26,000 people, it may not seem like a significant place on the map. However, Batavia has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1800s. The land where Batavia now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi and Sauk who were known for their agriculture and hunting skills. In the late 1700s, European settlers began to arrive in this area following the establishment of Fort Dearborn (now Chicago) by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable. These settlers were primarily French-Canadians who came from Quebec and settled along the Fox River. In 1833, Christopher Payne arrived in what is now Batavia with his family from New York state. He purchased large tracts of land along both sides of the Fox River and named his settlement "Headquarters." Other families soon followed suit and established their homesteads near Payne's property. One year later in 1834, Judge Samuel McCarty opened up a post office for Headquarters at his general store which he had built on Main Street (now Wilson Street). The townsite was officially platted in November of that year under its new name "Batavia," after an island off Java's coast that Dutch colonists had once owned. With its ideal location along the Fox River which provided access to transportation routes for trade with nearby towns such as Aurora and Geneva, Batavia quickly grew into a bustling community by mid-century. Its main industries included milling flour grains using water power from damming up sections of river rapids or building mills right next to them; woolen cloth production at mills like those run by Ziegler brothers; sawmills creating lumber products; brick-making plants producing bricks used extensively when constructing buildings; and a variety of other small businesses. In 1854, the Chicago and Galena Railroad (now known as Union Pacific) established tracks through Batavia, further increasing its economic growth. The town's name also became well-known due to the establishment of several notable institutions such as Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab), which was built in 1967 and is still one of the world's leading research facilities for particle physics. Throughout the late 1800s, Batavia continued to thrive with its bustling downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and local businesses. In addition to its industrial success, Batavia was also known for its strong sense of community and civic pride. It was home to many organizations such as churches, schools, a library association founded in 1881 that would eventually become part of the public library system in Kane County (the oldest library district west of New York City); YMCA; Knights Templar Commandery; Women’s Christian Temperance Union; Masonic Lodge #404 founded by members from existing lodges in Geneva or Aurora who wanted their own lodge closer at hand rather than having meetings over there every month because they couldn’t afford it on their own back then before cars came into popular use making travel easier between towns without railroads connecting them like today though people did walk long distances quite often so some charter members used foot power going about ten miles each way. In addition to these organizations, Batavia also had a strong educational foundation with multiple schools serving students from elementary through high school levels. One notable institution during this time period was Mary Todd Lincoln Elementary School which opened in 1905 and was named after President Abraham Lincoln's wife who had lived briefly in nearby Aurora during her childhood. The early 20th century brought about significant changes for Batavia as advancements were made in technology and transportation. With an increase in automobile usage came more development outside of the downtown area, resulting in the creation of suburban neighborhoods. This growth continued throughout the 1950s and 1960s, leading to a population boom. However, Batavia has managed to maintain its small-town charm while also adapting to modern times. Today, it is known for its historic architecture and landmarks such as the Batavia Depot Museum, which was built in 1854 and now serves as a museum showcasing the city's history. In recent years, there have been efforts made to preserve Batavia's past through restoration projects and community events such as "Batavia Heritage Days." The city also continues to thrive economically with businesses ranging from local shops and restaurants to large corporations like ALDI USA choosing Batavia as their headquarters. Despite facing challenges over its long history such as floods, economic downturns, and natural disasters like tornadoes and blizzards, Batavia has persevered thanks to its resilient community spirit. It remains an important part of Illinois' Fox River Valley region with a strong sense of pride in its past while looking towards a bright future.
Batavia is a small city located in Kane County, Illinois. It was first settled by European immigrants in the early 1830s and officially incorporated as a village in 1872. The area where Batavia now stands was originally inhabited by the Potawatomi Native American tribe. The name "Batavia" comes from the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia) and was chosen by its founders, Christopher Payne and Judge Isaac Wilson, who had both served in the Dutch East India Company. The city's original plat map resembles that of Batavia on Java Island, hence the name. In its early years, Batavia relied heavily on agriculture for its economy. However, with the arrival of railroads in the late 19th century, manufacturing industries began to thrive. The city became known for producing windmills and agricultural machinery such as plows and cultivators. One of Batavia's most notable historical landmarks is Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory, which opened in 1967. This particle physics research facility covers over 6 square miles and has been home to many groundbreaking scientific discoveries. During World War II, Batavia played an important role in supporting the war effort through production at factories like Challenge Machinery Company and Appleton Manufacturing Company. After the war ended, these factories shifted their focus to consumer goods such as paper products and printing equipment. In addition to its industrial growth, Batavia also experienced significant residential development during this time period with new housing subdivisions being built throughout the city. Today,Batavia continues to be a vibrant community with a strong sense of history preserved through various local organizations like The Depot Museum which showcases artifacts from Batavian life dating back centuries ago all while retaining much of its small-town charm. The downtown area is lined with historic buildings that have been repurposed into unique shops and restaurants. Visitors can also explore other historic sites such as Gustafson House Museum or Abbey Farms, a former monastery turned pumpkin patch and event venue. Batavia is also known for its strong school system, with several nationally recognized schools serving the community. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the Windmill City Festival in July and Oktoberfest in September. In recent years, Batavia has become a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as hiking and biking on the Fox River Trail or kayaking on the Fox River. The city's commitment to preserving its natural environment can also be seen through its many parks and green spaces. Overall, Batavia's rich history coupled with its modern amenities make it a charming destination for both residents and visitors alike. It continues to evolve while retaining its small-town charm, making it a unique place to live or visit in Illinois.
Crestliner, a well-known manufacturer of aluminum boats, has a rich history in Batavia, Illinois. The company was originally founded in 1946 by David A. Johnson and his business partner Willis Duwe. What started as a small operation quickly grew into one of the most successful boat manufacturing companies in the United States. The story of Crestliner begins with its founder, David A. Johnson. Born and raised in Minnesota, Johnson developed a passion for boating at an early age. He spent much of his free time on the lakes and rivers near his home town and dreamed of one day owning his own boat company. In 1945, while working at another boat manufacturing plant in Minneapolis, Johnson met Willis Duwe who shared the same dream as him – to start their own boat company. Together they decided to take the leap and open up their own business. After researching various locations across the Midwest, Johnson and Duwe settled on Batavia due to its convenient location near several major waterways such as Lake Michigan and Fox River. They believed that this would provide easy access for shipping their boats across the country. With only $10,000 between them, they leased an old industrial building on Wilson Street in downtown Batavia to begin their operations. The building had previously been used by All-Steel Equipment Company but had been vacant for over two years after World War II ended. Johnson’s vision was clear from the beginning – he wanted to create high-quality aluminum fishing boats that were both durable and affordable for everyday use. This focus on quality set Crestliner apart from other manufacturers at that time who were mainly producing wooden boats. One year later, in 1946, Crestliner officially opened its doors for business with just six employees including Johnson himself serving as president of the company. Their first model was called “the Muskie” named after Wisconsin's state fish which proved extremely popular among fishermen across America due to its lightweight design and sturdy construction. As the business grew, Crestliner quickly outgrew their small Wilson Street location. In 1952, they moved to a larger facility on McKee Street where they could expand their operations and increase production. This new factory was equipped with state-of-the-art machinery that allowed for mass production of boats, helping Crestliner become one of the top boat manufacturers in the country. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Crestliner continued to innovate and introduce new models such as “the Commander” which featured a sleeker design and more powerful engines. They also expanded their product line to include not only fishing boats but also pleasure crafts like runabouts and cruisers. In 1975, Johnson retired from his position as president of Crestliner but remained on board as Chairman of the Board of Directors until his passing in 1981. The company continued under new leadership and experienced significant growth during this time thanks to advancements in technology allowing for even better quality boats. Crestliner has faced some challenges over its long history including changes in consumer demand, economic downturns, and shifts in manufacturing processes. However, it has consistently adapted to these changes while still maintaining its core values of producing high-quality aluminum boats at an affordable price. Today, Crestliner continues to be headquartered in Batavia although it has since relocated once again to a larger facility on East Fabyan Parkway. The company is now owned by Brunswick Corporation – one of the world’s largest marine companies – who acquired it from OMC (Outboard Marine Corporation) in 1997. Despite being part of a large corporation now, Crestliner still holds onto its roots as a family-owned business with many employees having worked there for multiple generations. They continue to produce innovative designs such as pontoon boats with fold-down decks or jet-powered fishing rigs that have helped them remain competitive in today's market. In addition to its impact on the boating industry, Crestliner has also had a significant influence on the community of Batavia. The company has provided employment opportunities for local residents and has also been involved in various charitable initiatives over the years. In conclusion, Crestliner’s history in Batavia is one that showcases perseverance, innovation, and dedication to producing top-quality boats. From its humble beginnings in an old industrial building to becoming a household name in the marine industry, Crestliner’s success story serves as an inspiration for small businesses everywhere. As they continue to evolve with changing times while staying true to their core values, it is clear that Crestliner will remain a leader in boat manufacturing for many years to come.
Crestliner is a renowned company that specializes in manufacturing high-quality aluminum boats. With over 70 years of experience in the industry, Crestliner has become a trusted name among boating enthusiasts and professionals alike. The history of Crestliner dates back to 1946 when four brothers, Peter, Joe, Ben, and Dick Trollen founded it in Little Falls, Minnesota. The company started out as an independent business under the name "Trollen Brothers Boat Works." However, they quickly gained recognition for their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. In 1953, the company was renamed Crestliner after their flagship model "Crestline" which became immensely popular among customers. This marked the beginning of Crestliner's journey towards becoming one of the leading boat manufacturers in North America. One of the key factors behind Crestliner's success is its commitment to innovation and continuous improvement. The company has always strived to stay ahead of trends and consumer demands by introducing new designs and incorporating advanced technologies into their boats. For instance, Crestliner was one of the first companies to use rivet-free hull construction techniques with its signature UniWeld technology. This not only made their boats more durable but also significantly reduced weight without compromising on strength or performance. Moreover, Crestliner has also been at the forefront of using modern materials such as marine-grade aluminum alloy for constructing its vessels. This allows them to produce lightweight yet robust boats that are resistant to corrosion and can withstand harsh marine conditions. Over time, Crestliner expanded its product range beyond fishing boats to cater to a broader audience base. Today they offer a variety of models suitable for various types of water activities such as skiing, tubing or cruising. Each boat from Crescent liner is handcrafted with precision by skilled technicians who take immense pride in their workmanship. From designing custom-fit console layouts according to customer preferences to installing state-of-the-art electronics packages – every aspect receives utmost attention to detail. Crestliner's dedication to quality is evident in every vessel they produce. Each boat undergoes rigorous testing and inspection before it leaves the factory, ensuring that customers receive a product of exceptional quality and performance. The company also offers an extensive range of customization options for its boats, allowing customers to personalize their vessels as per their specific needs and preferences. This level of flexibility has earned Crestliner a loyal customer base over the years. Apart from producing top-of-the-line boats, Crestliner also prioritizes sustainability in its manufacturing processes. The company has implemented various environmentally friendly practices such as using recyclable materials and reducing emissions from production facilities. In 2016, Crestliner became part of Brunswick Corporation – one of the world's leading recreational marine companies. This partnership not only opened up new opportunities for growth but also allowed them to further improve their products by leveraging Brunswick's expertise in engineering and design. Today, Crestliner has multiple manufacturing facilities across North America, with a vast network of dealerships worldwide. Their commitment to providing unparalleled customer service has helped them establish strong relationships with dealers who share their passion for boating. Moreover, Crestliner continues to invest significantly in research and development to stay at the forefront of innovation within the boating industry. They regularly gather feedback from customers and collaborate with industry experts to bring cutting-edge designs and features into their boats continually. In conclusion, Crestliner is much more than just a boat manufacturer; it is a brand that represents excellence in craftsmanship, innovation, and sustainability. With its rich history spanning over seven decades backed by continuous improvement efforts, it is no surprise that Crescent liner remains one of the most trusted names among boaters today. Whether you are an avid fisherman looking for a reliable fishing boat or someone seeking adventure on water through skiing or tubing activities - there is no doubt that choosing a Crestline boat will provide you with an unforgettable experience on any body of water.