Mercury Marine, a world-renowned manufacturer of marine engines and watercrafts, has had a long and successful history in DeKalb, Illinois. The company's presence in the city dates back to the early 1950s when it first established its operations there. Since then, Mercury Marine has become an integral part of the DeKalb community, creating jobs and contributing to the local economy. The story of Mercury Marine in DeKalb began with founder Carl Kiekhaefer's quest for a location to expand his growing business. At that time, Kiekhaefer Corporation was based in Cedarburg, Wisconsin but needed more space for production as demand for their outboard motors increased. After considering several locations across the Midwest, including Indiana and Michigan, Kiekhaefer settled on DeKalb because of its proximity to major transportation routes such as Interstate 88 and Chicago O'Hare International Airport. In 1951, construction began on a new manufacturing facility in DeKalb which would become Mercury Marine’s global headquarters. The company officially opened its doors in July 1952 with just over 300 employees. This marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship between Mercury Marine and the city of DeKalb. Over the years, Mercury Marine expanded its operations in DeKalb through various acquisitions and partnerships. In 1966 they acquired West Bend Outboards Inc., which became known as “West Bend by Mercury” – producing both snowmobiles and outboard motors at their plant located south-eastern side near I-88 exit ramp #94 (later named Plant II). This acquisition brought additional job opportunities to the area as well as diversification within the company’s product line. In addition to expanding their product offerings through acquisitions, Mercury Marine also invested heavily into research and development at their corporate R&D center located next door from "Plant I" offices &main assembly plant off Sycamore Road. This facility is responsible for designing and engineering new marine engines, technologies, and innovations that have made Mercury Marine a leader in the industry. In the early 1980s, Mercury Marine introduced its revolutionary “Crate Motor” engine – an outboard motor that could be shipped to dealers fully assembled and ready to install on boats. This innovation streamlined production processes and reduced costs for both the company and its customers. The success of this product led to further expansion of their DeKalb operations with a third plant opening in 1986 dedicated exclusively to manufacturing these Crate Motors. Throughout the years, Mercury Marine has faced challenges such as economic downturns, changing consumer preferences, and increased competition from other manufacturers. However, through strategic planning and continuous investment in research & development initiatives at their DeKalb location – they have continued to thrive despite these obstacles. Today, Mercury Marine remains one of DeKalb's largest employers with over 2,800 employees working across all three plants. The company also supports many local businesses through indirect employment opportunities such as suppliers and service providers. Mercury Marine’s presence in DeKalb has not only brought economic benefits but also social benefits to the community. Over the years they have been actively involved in various philanthropic endeavors including volunteering efforts by employees at local charities like Feed My Starving Children & community events such as Corn Fest (held annually each August). They have also contributed significantly towards education through donations to Northern Illinois University (NIU) Engineering school along with providing internship programs for students who gain real-world experience while completing degrees/certifications required for future advancements within our workforce/industry. Looking towards the future, there are exciting developments happening at Mercury Marine's headquarters in DeKalb. In recent years they announced plans for a $10 million expansion project which will bring new jobs & additional investments into their facilities - highlighting once again how committed they are towards growth potential within our region. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s history in DeKalb is a testament to the company's dedication to innovation and growth. Through their partnerships with local businesses and involvement in community initiatives, they have become an indispensable part of the city's fabric. As they continue to evolve and expand, it is clear that Mercury Marine will remain a vital contributor to DeKalb's economy for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines, propellers, and other marine products. It was founded in 1939 by E. Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin and has since grown to become one of the most recognized brands in the boating industry. The company's success can be attributed to its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Mercury Marine has a long history of pioneering new technologies that have revolutionized the boating industry. In fact, they were the first company to introduce an outboard motor with forward-neutral-reverse gears in 1956. One of their most notable achievements was the introduction of the MerCruiser sterndrive engine in 1961. This innovative product combined an inboard engine with an outdrive unit for enhanced performance and maneuverability on water. Over the years, Mercury Marine has continued to push boundaries with new advancements such as electronic fuel injection systems, joystick piloting technology for easier boat control, and Active Trim which automatically adjusts trim angles for optimal performance. Aside from their focus on innovation, Mercury Marine also puts great emphasis on quality. They have state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities where all components are rigorously tested before being assembled into a final product. This ensures that every engine or part that leaves their factory meets their high standards of excellence. In addition to producing top-quality products, Mercury Marine also prides itself on providing exceptional customer service. They have a network of dealerships around the world who are trained and certified by experts at Mercury University – an exclusive training program offered by the company. Their dedication to customer satisfaction is evident through initiatives such as "Mercury Repower Financing" which helps customers finance repowering projects or upgrades for their boats easily and affordably. Another standout aspect about Mercury Marine is its commitment to sustainability. The company understands that it operates within sensitive ecosystems and takes measures to minimize its environmental impact through various initiatives. For example, they have implemented a closed-loop cooling system in their engines which eliminates the need for raw water intake and reduces the risk of introducing invasive species into water bodies. They also use recyclable materials in their packaging to reduce waste and have implemented energy-efficient practices at their facilities. Mercury Marine's products are highly sought after by boaters around the world due to their reputation for quality, innovation, and reliability. Their extensive product line includes outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower to 400 horsepower, sterndrive engines, propellers, parts and accessories for both recreational and commercial boats. Their outboard motors are used not only for leisure activities such as fishing and cruising but also in professional applications such as search-and-rescue missions, coast guard operations, and competitive racing events. In addition to marine propulsion systems, Mercury Marine also offers electronic steering systems through its subsidiary company – SeaStar Solutions. These advanced steering systems provide precise control over a boat's direction with minimal effort from the driver. Furthermore, Mercury Marine has expanded beyond traditional marine products with its new VesselView Mobile technology. This innovative device allows boaters to monitor engine data on their smartphones or tablets wirelessly – giving them real-time information about fuel levels, engine performance metrics, maintenance reminders,and more while on board. In recent years,Mercury Marine has also made significant strides towards electric propulsion technologies. In 2019,the company announced its "Project Zeus" initiative which aims to develop high-performance electric powertrains for larger boats - providing environmentally-friendly alternatives without compromising on performance. Moreover,Mercury's commitment to sustainability extends beyond just product development.They have partnered with organizations like The Ocean Foundation,National Geographic,and conservation groups worldwide to support research initiatives focused on preserving our oceans.As part of this partnership,the company launched "The Great Lakes Initiative" - an ongoing effort that focuses on cleaning up plastic debris from lakes,rivers,and shorelines across the US and Canada. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has established itself as a leader in the boating industry through its dedication to innovation, quality, customer satisfaction,and sustainability. With over 80 years of experience,Mercury continues to push boundaries and set new standards for marine propulsion systems. Its products are trusted by boaters around the world,and its commitment to environmental responsibility makes it a company that not only provides top-quality products but also cares about the future of our waterways.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, parts and accessories. The company was founded in 1939 by E. Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. However, Mercury Marine’s presence in DeKalb, Illinois dates back to the late 1960s. In 1968, Mercury Marine expanded its operations to include a facility in DeKalb, Illinois as part of its growth strategy. This facility was initially used for manufacturing outboard engines and stern drive units for recreational boating purposes. The decision to establish a production plant in DeKalb was strategic due to its location near major highways and railroads that provided easy access for shipping products across the country. Additionally, the close proximity to Lake Michigan made it an ideal location for producing marine products. Over the years, the DeKalb facility has undergone several expansions and upgrades to increase efficiency and capacity. In 1976, a new office building was constructed on site which housed administrative offices along with engineering facilities. In the early 1980s, Mercury Marine introduced their first line of sterndrive-powered boats called “Marquis.” These boats were built at the DeKalb facility and became popular among recreational boaters. In 1993, Mercury Marine invested over $50 million into upgrading their facilities at both Cedarburg and DeKalb locations. This investment included adding state-of-the-art equipment such as computerized machining centers and robotics technology to improve productivity. By this time, Mercury Marine had become one of the largest employers in DeKalb with over 1,200 employees working at their production plant alone. The company also played an important role in boosting local economy by providing job opportunities not only at their own facilities but also through various suppliers located within the region. Throughout its history in DeKalb, Mercury Marine has been committed to innovation and continuously improving their products through research and development efforts conducted at their engineering facilities on site. This commitment has led to numerous advancements in marine technology and helped the company maintain its position as a leader in the industry. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded its operations globally with manufacturing facilities in countries such as China, Mexico, and Belgium. However, DeKalb remains an important production center for the company with plans for further expansion and investments in the future. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be a major contributor to the economy of DeKalb and plays an important role in supporting recreational boating activities not only in Illinois but around the world. The company’s presence has also brought recognition to DeKalb as a hub for marine technology and innovation.

DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located in the northern region of the state, known as "The Heart of Corn." Located approximately 65 miles west of Chicago, DeKalb has a population of around 44,000 people. The city is home to Northern Illinois University (NIU), one of the top public universities in the Midwest and a major contributor to the local economy. The history of DeKalb dates back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by European-American pioneers. It was named after Johann de Kalb, a French military officer who served with American troops during the Revolutionary War. In its early days, DeKalb was primarily an agricultural community, with corn being its main crop. However, as time passed and industries developed in nearby cities like Chicago and Rockford, DeKalb began to grow and diversify its economy. Today, DeKalb is known for its strong sense of community and thriving culture. With NIU at its center, education plays a significant role in shaping the city's identity. The university brings students from all over the world together and contributes significantly to cultural diversity within DeKalb. NIU also provides numerous job opportunities for both students and residents alike. Along with education and agriculture-based industries such as seed companies and food processing plants that continue to thrive in DeKalb today; manufacturing has become an important part of its economy. Companies like Nestle USA have established operations here due to favorable business conditions such as lower costs compared to larger cities like Chicago. In addition to economic development through industry growth, tourism also plays an essential role in boosting DeKalb's economy. The city offers various attractions for visitors interested in learning about local history or enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking or biking on scenic trails along Kishwaukee River State Park. DeKalb's downtown area is another highlight worth mentioning since it reflects much charm despite not being a large city. The downtown district is home to many locally-owned businesses, restaurants, and cafes that provide a unique shopping and dining experience for residents and visitors alike. Many cultural events take place in the downtown area throughout the year, including art shows, music festivals, parades, and farmers' markets. One of DeKalb's most famous annual events is Corn Fest held every September since 1977. This festival celebrates the city's agricultural roots with live music performances, carnival rides, food vendors offering delicious corn-based dishes like roasted corn on the cob or sweet corn ice cream. Aside from its vibrant culture and economy, DeKalb also boasts an excellent quality of life for its residents. With affordable housing options available throughout the city, it has become an attractive location for families looking to settle down or individuals looking to escape big-city living without sacrificing amenities such as good schools and healthcare facilities. DeKalb also takes pride in its well-maintained parks and recreational areas that offer various outdoor activities such as swimming pools, playgrounds, basketball courts; making it an ideal spot for families to spend time together outdoors. Additionally; NIU provides access to sporting events at Huskie Stadium where locals can root for their hometown college team. In conclusion; DeKalb may not be a well-known destination compared to other cities in Illinois like Chicago or Springfield; but this small town offers a unique blend of history; education; industry growth along with natural beauty that continues attracting people from all walks of life who are seeking both professional opportunities as well as a high-quality lifestyle outside major urban centers. Despite challenges faced by small towns across America today such as population decline due to outmigration or loss of traditional industries over time; DeKalb has managed to maintain its identity while adapting towards progress. Its success can be attributed primarily towards community involvement through partnerships between local government officials; business leaders & NIU faculty members working together towards common goals. DeKalb is a city that has much to offer, and its potential for growth continues as it remains committed towards providing both residents and visitors with a unique experience. With its rich history; diverse culture; vibrant economy & high-quality lifestyle options; DeKalb proves to be an ideal destination for those looking to explore the heart of corn in Illinois.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors, stern drives, and inboard engines for recreational boating and commercial marine markets. It was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer as Kiekhaefer Corporation, with its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Over the years, Mercury Marine has become a household name among boaters and has established itself as an industry leader through its innovative products and rich history. The Early Years In the late 1930s, Carl Kiekhaefer was working on developing magnetic separators for dairy farms when he received an order for twelve magnetos from US Outboard Motors. This sparked his interest in the marine industry, and he decided to start his own business manufacturing two-stroke outboard motors. He named his company Kiekhaefer Corporation and set up shop in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Kiekhaefer's first product was a lightweight two-cylinder outboard motor that quickly gained popularity among fishermen due to its reliability and power. However, it wasn't until World War II that Mercury Marine truly took off. The US Navy approached Kiekhaefer to develop motors for their inflatable boats used during combat missions. By 1942, Mercury Marine had produced over 10 million horsepower worth of outboards for military use. Post-War Expansion After the war ended, Mercury Marine shifted its focus back to recreational boating. With demand increasing rapidly after the war years' hiatus from production activities due to resource constraints caused by conflicts globally; they expanded operations into Canada with a new plant opening in St.Thomas Ontario Canada where they could produce larger quantities at lower costs while taking advantage of favorable exchange rates between U.S dollars vs Canadian Dollars making them even more competitive within both domestic & international markets. During this time period (1950s-1960s), Mercury introduced several new models including the Mark 55, which became the best-selling outboard motor in the world. They also diversified their product line by introducing stern drives and inboard engines. In 1961, Kiekhaefer Corporation was renamed Mercury Marine to better reflect its expanding product range. The company continued to grow throughout the 1960s, with new plants opening in Belgium and Australia. Innovation and Evolution The 1970s saw Mercury Marine's focus shift towards innovation and technology advancements. In 1973, they introduced their first four-stroke engine, followed by a fuel-injected two-stroke engine in 1984. These innovations helped improve performance while reducing emissions and noise levels. The company also expanded into international markets during this time period, partnering with boat manufacturers worldwide to increase its global presence. By the end of the decade, Mercury had become a household name among boaters worldwide. Mercury Marine continued to innovate through the late '80s and '90s with advanced technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and direct fuel injection engines for improved efficiency and power delivery. In addition to that, they developed high-performance racing engines used by professional racers around the world. Acquisition by Brunswick Corporation In May of 2006, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine from its then-parent company DaimlerChrysler AG for $1 billion dollars. This acquisition allowed Mercury Marine access to Brunswick's vast resources while maintaining its identity as a separate entity within Brunswick's marine division. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury has continued to expand its product line while focusing on sustainability efforts such as developing more environmentally friendly products like cleaner-burning engines powered by renewable fuels such as ethanol blends or bio-diesel options; investing heavily in research & development (R&D) activities focused on creating innovative solutions related not just within traditional leisure boating but also commercial applications where there is an increasing demand for higher horsepower models meeting tougher emission regulations globally. Through their R&D efforts, Mercury has also developed advanced technologies such as joystick piloting and digital throttle and shift systems. These innovations have made boating easier and more enjoyable for consumers. Present Day Today, Mercury Marine is a global company with over 6,000 employees worldwide. They have manufacturing facilities in the United States, Mexico, Belgium, China, and Australia. The company's product line includes outboard motors ranging from 2.5 to 600 horsepower, stern drives up to 430 horsepower, and inboard engines up to 1,200 horsepower. Mercury Marine continues to be an industry leader through its commitment to innovation and quality products. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of technology while staying true to their roots of producing reliable and powerful marine engines. In conclusion, the history of Mercury Marine is one of determination and success. From its humble beginnings in a small town in Wisconsin to becoming a globally recognized brand name known for its high-performance marine engines – they have come a long way since their founding in 1939. With over eighty years of experience under their belt coupled with continuous investment into research & development activities; it is evident that Mercury will continue leading the way towards creating innovative solutions within the recreational boating industry for many years to come.

. Mercury Marine is a division of the Brunswick Corporation and is a leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who originally named it Kiekhaefer Mercury after himself and his favorite deity, the Roman god Mercury. Kiekhaefer had previously worked for an engineering firm that produced outboard motors, but he wanted to create something better. He started by designing a lightweight two-cylinder engine that could be easily mounted on small boats. This first motor was called the "Mark 20" and became an instant success due to its reliability and performance. During World War II, Mercury Marine shifted its focus from recreational boating to supporting the war effort. They produced thousands of motors for use in landing craft, patrol boats, mine sweepers, and other military vessels. After the war ended, Mercury Marine returned to producing recreational boat engines and continued to innovate with new designs such as four-stroke engines and higher horsepower models. In 1957, they introduced their first stern drive system which allowed for more efficient power transfer from engine to propeller. Throughout the following decades, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line with advancements in technology such as electronic fuel injection systems and digital throttle controls. They also expanded into international markets through partnerships with other companies. In 1961, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine from Carl Kiekhaefer after he decided to leave the company due to disagreements over management styles. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury Marine has continued to grow and evolve into one of the most recognized brands in marine propulsion systems. Today, Mercury Marine offers a wide range of products including outboard motors ranging from two-horsepower portable units up to powerful V-8 engines capable of reaching speeds over 100 miles per hour. They also produce sterndrive systems for larger boats as well as diesel engines used in commercial applications. In recent years, Mercury Marine has focused on sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives. They have developed technology to reduce emissions and increase fuel efficiency in their engines, as well as implementing recycling programs for used outboard motor oil. In addition to its commitment to innovation and environmental responsibility, Mercury Marine also supports the boating community through sponsorships of fishing tournaments and other events. They also have a strong presence in the racing world with partnerships in powerboat racing, offshore endurance races, and competitive bass fishing. Despite challenges such as economic downturns and changes in consumer preferences, Mercury Marine has remained a leader in the marine industry. With over 80 years of history behind them, they continue to push boundaries and set new standards for performance, reliability, and sustainability.

DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located in the northern part of the state. It is situated in DeKalb County and has a population of approximately 45,000 people. The history of this city dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled by European pioneers. The land where DeKalb now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi and Miami. These tribes were forced to cede their lands to the United States government through several treaties, including the Treaty of Chicago in 1833. In 1835, two brothers named Isaac and William Lattin arrived in what is now DeKalb with their families from New York. They saw potential in the fertile land and decided to settle here permanently. The Lattin family built a cabin near present-day downtown DeKalb and started farming. Soon after, other settlers began arriving from neighboring states such as Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania. The town grew quickly with new businesses opening up, including general stores, blacksmith shops, and mills. Incorporation as a Village In 1856, DeKalb was officially incorporated as a village with only about 500 residents. At this time, most of the economy revolved around agriculture and trade due to its location on major transportation routes between Chicago and Galena. One significant event that shaped DeKalb's early history was the arrival of railroads in the late 1850s. With access to efficient transportation for goods and people came an influx of new industries such as grain elevators, lumberyards,and manufacturing plants. Northern Illinois University Another major turning point for DeKalb came in 1895 when Northern Illinois State Normal School (now known as Northern Illinois University) opened its doors within city limits. This institution provided education training for teachers who would go on to teach throughout Illinois public schools. With NIU's expansion over the years, DeKalb has become a vibrant college town with a diverse population and strong ties to the university. The presence of NIU also brings cultural events, athletic competitions, and economic benefits to the city. Notable Events DeKalb has been home to several notable events in its history. In 1912, it was the site of the first transcontinental air race when pilots flew from New York City to San Francisco. This event brought national attention to DeKalb as thousands of spectators gathered here to witness the race. The city also gained recognition for being one of Illinois' top producers of hybrid seed corn in the mid-20th century. This led to DeKalb becoming known as "Corn Town USA" and hosting an annual Corn Fest celebration that still takes place today. Tragedy struck in 1958 when a fire at Our Lady of Angels school claimed the lives of 92 students and three nuns. The tragedy had a profound impact on DeKalb residents who came together in support of those affected by this devastating event. In recent years, DeKalb has faced challenges such as economic downturns due to factory closures and natural disasters like tornadoes damaging parts of the city. However, through perseverance and community spirit, DeKalb continues to thrive and evolve. Today's DeKalb Present-day DeKalb is a bustling community with a mix of modern developments alongside historic buildings. Its downtown area features local businesses ranging from restaurants and coffee shops to antique stores and art galleries. DeKalb is also home to several parks, including Hopkins Park which offers various recreational activities such as hiking trails, playgrounds,and sports fields. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year such as farmers markets,music festivals,and holiday celebrations that bring people together for fun-filled gatherings. One significant development in recent years has been an increase in diversity within the city's population due partially to the growth of NIU. DeKalb has become a welcoming and inclusive community, with residents from different backgrounds coming together to celebrate their unique cultures. In conclusion, the history of DeKalb is one of resilience, progress, and community. From its humble beginnings as a small farming village to becoming a thriving college town, DeKalb has undergone many changes throughout the years. Its rich history continues to shape its present-day identity and serves as a reminder of the city's strong roots and bright future ahead.

DeKalb, Illinois is a city located in DeKalb County in north-central Illinois. The city was founded in 1837 and was named after decorated military officer Johann de Kalb, who served during the American Revolutionary War. Early History: Prior to European settlement, the area that is now known as DeKalb was inhabited by several Native American tribes including the Potawatomi and Ottawa. These tribes were forcibly removed from their land through treaties with the US government starting in the early 1800s. Founding of DeKalb: In 1835, Daniel Pierce established a stagecoach stop on his property where modern-day downtown DeKalb stands. This stop became known as "Pierce's Crossing" and quickly grew into a small village due to its location along major transportation routes between Chicago and Galena. Two years later, when a new county (DeKalb County) was formed out of parts of neighboring counties, Pierce's Crossing was chosen as the county seat due to its central location. The town was officially incorporated as "DeKalb" on May 19th, 1856. Growth Through Agriculture: The fertile soil of DeKalb County made it an ideal place for farming and agriculture quickly became one of the main industries in the area. In addition to traditional crops like corn and wheat, farmers also began growing oats which led to an increase in oatmeal production. By the late 1800s, DeKalb had become known as "the Oat Capital of America." Education: One notable aspect of DeKalb's history is its strong focus on education. In 1895 Northern Illinois State Normal School (now known as Northern Illinois University) opened its doors just outside of town limits. Today NIU has grown into a major university with over twenty thousand students enrolled each year. Notable Industries: Aside from agriculture and education, other industries have played important roles in DeKalb's history. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, barbed wire production became a major industry in the city. In the mid-1900s, several large companies such as Caterpillar Inc., Monsanto Chemical Company, and Nestle opened factories in DeKalb, providing job opportunities for residents. DeKalb Today: Today, DeKalb is a bustling city with a population of over 45,000 people. The downtown area has been revitalized with numerous restaurants and shops while still retaining its historic charm. Many residents also enjoy attending events at the Egyptian Theatre which was built in 1929 and remains an iconic landmark in the community. Despite its growth and modernization, DeKalb has never lost touch with its agricultural roots. The annual Corn Fest held each August celebrates this heritage with carnival rides, live music, and plenty of corn-related activities. In recent years, efforts have also been made to promote sustainability within the community through initiatives like recycling programs and promoting local farmers' markets. This commitment to preserving both history and natural resources makes DeKalb a unique place to call home. Overall, the rich history of DeKalb reflects not only its growth as a city but also its resilience as it continues to evolve and adapt to changing times while remaining true to its roots.

Mercury Marine is a world-renowned manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, with its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. However, many may not know that the company has a history deeply rooted in DeKalb, Illinois. The story of Mercury Marine in DeKalb begins in 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased an outboard motor manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company. Kiekhaefer was a young engineer and entrepreneur who had recently graduated from the University of Michigan with a degree in engineering. He saw potential in this small struggling company and decided to take it over. At first, Kiekhaefer moved his new business to Cedarburg, Wisconsin where he started making outboard motors under the name "Thor Outboard Motors." However, after facing numerous challenges and setbacks including poor sales and product failures, he made the decision to move his operation to DeKalb. In 1946, Kiekhaefer bought an abandoned factory building on First Street near downtown DeKalb for $35,000. This facility became Mercury Marine's first production plant outside of Wisconsin. The town welcomed him with open arms as he promised to bring jobs and boost the local economy. Under Kiekhaefer's leadership and innovative ideas, Mercury Marine grew rapidly. In just three years' time (1946-1948), their workforce increased from 50 employees to over 600 employees. The growth continued as they expanded their product line beyond outboard motors into stern drives for larger boats. One of the key factors that contributed to Mercury Marine's success was its focus on quality control. Kiekhaefer implemented strict standards for testing every single motor before it left the factory floor – something unheard of at that time in the industry. This commitment to excellence earned them a reputation as one of America’s most reliable brands. With their growing success came expansion opportunities for both production facilities and product lines. In 1956, Mercury Marine built a new plant in Stillman Valley, Illinois to produce stern drives exclusively. This facility was later expanded to include outboard motor production as well. By the late 1960s, Mercury Marine had become one of the largest employers in DeKalb with over 3,000 employees working at their two plants. The company's success also brought prosperity to the local community as businesses such as restaurants and retail stores sprouted up around the factories to cater to its workers. In addition to providing jobs and boosting the local economy, Mercury Marine also played an active role in supporting the community through various initiatives. They sponsored Little League teams, donated money for school programs and scholarships, and even organized annual picnics for their employees' families. However, despite all of its achievements in DeKalb, by the early 1970s Mercury Marine faced financial difficulties due to rising costs of labor and materials. As a result, Kiekhaefer decided to sell his company in 1972 – marking the end of an era for both DeKalb and Mercury Marine. Today, Mercury Marine is still headquartered in Fond du Lac but maintains a strong connection with its roots in DeKalb. The city has designated June 27th (Kiekhaefer Day) as a commemoration of Carl Kiekhaefer’s impact on DeKalb's history. The legacy left behind by Mercury Marine continues to live on through its innovative products that have revolutionized boating industries worldwide. Its presence may no longer be physically felt within DeKalb's borders but it will forever hold a special place in this town's heart – where it all began over seven decades ago.

Mercury Marine is a company that has been revolutionizing the boating industry since its inception in 1939. From humble beginnings to becoming one of the top manufacturers of marine engines and boats, Mercury Marine has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation and quality. History The story of Mercury Marine begins with an ambitious young engineer named Carl Kiekhaefer. In 1939, at the age of just 25, Kiekhaefer bought a bankrupt engine manufacturing company in Cedarburg, Wisconsin with only $2,000 to his name. He renamed it "Kiekhaefer Corporation" and set out to build magnetic separators for dairy farms. However, when World War II began, Kiekhaefer shifted focus to producing lightweight two-cylinder outboard motors for military use. These small yet powerful engines became popular among soldiers who used them for transportation during amphibious operations. After the war ended, Kiekhaefer saw potential in expanding his business into recreational boating. He introduced a new line of affordable two-stroke outboard motors under the brand name “Mercury” – inspired by Roman mythology’s messenger god known for speed and agility. Innovations From then on, Mercury Marine continued to innovate and introduce groundbreaking technologies that have shaped the modern boating industry. In 1947, they launched their first four-cylinder two-cycle outboard motor which was faster than any other engine at that time. This led to numerous speed records being broken using Mercury motors. In 1956 came another game-changing invention – Mercruiser stern drives – which combined an inboard drive system with an outboard motor for better handling and performance on larger boats. This technology quickly gained popularity among pleasure craft users as well as commercial vessels due to its efficiency and reliability. Throughout the years, Mercury Marine has continued to develop cutting-edge products such as electronic fuel injection systems (EFI), direct fuel injection (DFI), and the revolutionary Verado four-stroke outboard engine. These advancements have not only improved the performance of their engines but also reduced emissions, making them more environmentally friendly. Today, Mercury Marine offers a wide range of products including outboard motors, inboard engines, propellers, boats and accessories for recreational boating as well as commercial use. They are constantly pushing boundaries with new technologies such as joystick piloting systems that make docking and maneuvering easier than ever before. Global Reach Mercury Marine has a global presence with manufacturing facilities in Florida, Wisconsin, Oklahoma and Mexico. They also have a strong international network with operations in over 100 countries worldwide. Their commitment to quality has earned them numerous awards and accolades including being named one of America’s most reputable companies by Forbes magazine multiple times. Mercury Marine is also ISO 9001 certified – an internationally recognized standard for quality management systems. Partnerships In addition to their own innovations, Mercury Marine has partnered with other leading companies to further advance the boating industry. One notable collaboration is their long-standing partnership with Brunswick Corporation – a Fortune 500 company that manufactures marine products such as boats and fitness equipment. Together they formed “Innovation Lab”, where engineers from both companies work together on developing cutting-edge technology for better boat design and performance. This partnership has resulted in groundbreaking advancements such as Active Trim – an automatic trim system that adjusts trim angles while underway for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Community Involvement Apart from their contributions to the marine industry, Mercury Marine is also committed to giving back to the community. Through their philanthropic arm called “The Drive To Better Life Foundation”, they support organizations focused on youth development through education programs related to STEM (science, technology engineering & math) fields as well as environmental conservation efforts around waterways. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's passion for innovation coupled with its commitment to quality and community involvement has made it a leader in the boating industry. Their advancements have not only enhanced the performance of their products but also contributed to making boating more accessible, safe and environmentally friendly. As they continue to expand their global reach and partnerships, we can expect even greater things from Mercury Marine in the future.