Crestliner is a well-known name in the world of boating, and its history can be traced back to Dixon, Illinois. The city of Dixon has played a significant role in shaping the success story of Crestliner as it is where the company was founded and has remained its home base since 1946. The roots of Crestliner go back to 1945 when two brothers, David and Peter Duhamel, who were avid fishermen decided to start their own boatbuilding business. They saw an opportunity in the increasing popularity of aluminum boats due to their durability and affordability compared to traditional wooden boats. With that vision in mind, they established Crestline Boats Inc., which was later renamed Crestliner Inc. Initially located on Hennepin Avenue in Dixon, the company started by manufacturing small fishing boats with plywood decks but soon transitioned into producing all-aluminum boats. Their first design was called "The Little Chief," a 14-foot boat with an outboard motor. This model proved popular among local fishermen for its sturdiness and performance on water. In 1952, just six years after its inception, Crestliner moved to a larger facility on Galena Avenue in Dixon due to increasing demand for their products. The move allowed them to expand their production capacity and introduce new designs such as runabouts and cruisers. One significant factor that contributed greatly to the success of Crestliner was its focus on innovation and technology. In 1954, they introduced one-piece hull construction using riveted aluminum sheets instead of welded seams like most other manufacturers at that time. This innovative technique made their boats stronger while reducing weight significantly. By this time, Crestliner had gained recognition not only within Illinois but also across state lines thanks to aggressive marketing efforts by David Duhamel himself. He traveled extensively throughout the Midwest showcasing his products at boat shows and events resulting in increased sales and brand awareness. In 1961, Crestliner launched its first inboard-outboard (I/O) boat model with a V-8 engine called the Commander. This move marked their entry into the high-performance boat market and solidified their position as a leading manufacturer of aluminum boats. The 1970s was a decade of growth for Crestliner as they expanded their product line to include canoes, pedal boats, and other recreational watercraft. They also started exporting their products to Europe and Asia, making them an international brand. In 1984, David Duhamel retired from his role as president of Crestliner Inc., passing on leadership to his son Philip who had joined the company in 1965. Under Philip's guidance, Crestliner continued to expand by acquiring other brands such as MirroCraft Boats and Landau Boat Company. In 2001, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner Inc., making it part of its marine division alongside well-known brands like Mercury Marine and Sea Ray. The acquisition brought new resources and opportunities for growth while allowing Crestliner to maintain its operations in Dixon. Today, Crestliner continues to be at the forefront of innovation with advanced features such as SureMount Gunnel Accessory System that allows users to customize their boats according to their needs. They also offer a wide range of models ranging from small fishing boats to large pontoons suitable for family outings. Despite being under different ownership now than when it began in Dixon over seven decades ago, the city remains an essential part of Crestliner's identity. It is where they have built all-aluminum boats since day one and produced thousands of vessels that have made lasting memories for families across generations. Furthermore, Dixon has been supportive of Crestliner throughout its journey by providing skilled labor force and business-friendly policies enabling them to thrive despite economic challenges faced by many manufacturing companies in recent years. In return, Crestline has contributed significantly towards job creation in Dixon with over 700 employees at their facility. In conclusion, Crestliner's history in Dixon, Illinois is one of determination, innovation, and growth. The company has not only become a household name in the world of boating but also an integral part of the city's economy and heritage. As they continue to evolve with changing times and customer demands, it is safe to say that Crestliner will remain a significant presence in Dixon for years to come.

Crestliner is a well-known manufacturer of high-quality aluminum boats that has been in operation for over 75 years. Founded in 1946, the company has established itself as one of the top producers of fishing boats and pontoons in North America. With its commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, Crestliner continues to be a leader in the boating industry. The History of Crestliner Crestliner was founded by David Williams Sr., an avid fisherman who saw a need for durable and reliable boats that could withstand harsh weather conditions on his frequent fishing trips. He started out by building wooden boats but soon realized that aluminum would provide better durability without compromising on quality. In its early years, Crestliner focused on producing small fishing boats with simple designs. However, as technology advanced and consumer demands changed, the company began expanding its product line to include larger models and pontoon boats. In 1958, Crestliner introduced their first all-aluminum boat – The Sportster – which became an instant success due to its sleek design and exceptional performance. Throughout the decades, Crestliner continued to innovate and improve their designs while maintaining their dedication to quality craftsmanship. In 1962, they introduced welded seams instead of rivets for increased strength and durability. This was followed by other advancements such as foam floatation systems for added safety and comfort features like adjustable seats. Today's Product Lineup Crestliner offers a diverse lineup of products designed specifically for different types of boaters. Their current offerings include aluminum fishing boats ranging from 16-20 feet in length with various layouts suitable for both freshwater or saltwater use. Their popular Sportsman series includes multi-species fishing models equipped with advanced features like livewells, rod storage compartments, casting platforms with pedestal seats,and more. These versatile boats are perfect for anglers looking for a comfortable yet functional vessel at an affordable price point. For those looking for a more luxurious experience, Crestliner offers their pontoon boats. These pontoons are designed for entertaining and cruising with friends and family. With spacious layouts, comfortable seating options, and modern amenities like stereo systems and LED lighting, these boats offer the perfect balance of relaxation and fun on the water. In addition to fishing boats and pontoons, Crestliner also offers Jon boats – flat-bottomed aluminum vessels ideal for shallow waters or small lakes. These lightweight yet durable boats are easy to maneuver even in tight spaces, making them popular among hunters and fishermen alike. Commitment to Quality One of the key factors that set Crestliner apart from other boat manufacturers is its commitment to quality. Each boat is crafted with precision using only high-grade materials such as marine-grade aluminum alloy for strength and durability. Crestliner's advanced construction techniques ensure that each boat is built to last while providing a smooth ride even in rough waters. The company employs skilled welders who use state-of-the-art equipment to create perfectly welded seams that eliminate any weak points or potential leaks. Moreover, each Crestliner boat undergoes rigorous testing before leaving the factory floor. This includes pressure testing the hulls for strength, checking all electrical components for functionality, ensuring proper alignment of parts,and conducting performance trials on the water. This attention to detail ensures that every customer receives a top-quality product they can trust. Customer Satisfaction Crestliner has always been driven by customer satisfaction throughout its history. From initial design concepts through production stages until delivery, every step is taken with customers' needs in mind. The company prides itself on maintaining strong relationships with its dealerships across North America who provide exceptional service during sales as well as after-sales support. Additionally,Crestliner offers an industry-leading warranty program backed by Brunswick Corporation (the parent company), further emphasizing their commitment to customer satisfaction. Environmental Responsibility As boating enthusiasts themselves,Crestliner understands their responsibility towards preserving the environment for future generations. That's why they have implemented environmentally friendly practices in their manufacturing processes, such as using recycled materials and minimizing waste. They also offer a range of eco-friendly options for customers to choose from, including Mercury Marine engines with advanced fuel efficiency technology and Evinrude E-TEC G2 engines that emit fewer emissions into the water. These efforts demonstrate Crestliner’s commitment to sustainability and protecting our natural resources. Innovation Crestliner has always been at the forefront of innovation in the boating industry. In recent years, they have partnered with major motor companies like Mercury Marine and Yamaha to integrate cutting-edge technologies into their boats. One example is Crestliner's use of Raptor composite material on select models, which replaces wood components typically used in construction. This not only makes the boat lighter but also more durable and resistant to rotting or warping over time. Additionally,Crestliner has incorporated modern design elements into its boats, such as sleek lines,multiple color options,and comfortable seating configurations – making them both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Conclusion In conclusion,Crestliner is a company built on passion for boating,fishing,and exceptional craftsmanship. Their dedication to quality, customer satisfaction,and innovation has made them one of the top manufacturers of aluminum boats in North America. With 75 years under its belt,Crestliner continues to evolve while staying true to its roots - providing reliable, durable,and high-performing vessels that enhance each customer's experience on the water.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, known for its high-quality aluminum fishing and recreational boats. The company has a rich history that dates back over 70 years. In 1946, David Du Plessis founded Crestliner in Little Falls, Minnesota. The company's first boat was a welded aluminum runabout called the "Silver Arrow." This innovative design featured an all-welded hull instead of rivets, making it more durable and leak-proof. The Silver Arrow quickly gained popularity among fishermen due to its stability and durability on the water. In 1951, Crestliner moved its operations to Bemidji, Minnesota where they continued to expand their product line with larger models such as cabin cruisers and pontoon boats. The next major development for Crestliner came in 1964 when they were acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC). This partnership allowed Crestliner to expand their distribution network and offer new features like vinyl upholstery and fiberglass flooring on their boats. By the mid-1970s, OMC had relocated most of Crestliner's manufacturing operations to multiple locations across Wisconsin. However, in 1985 OMC decided to consolidate production at one location and chose Dixon, Illinois as the new headquarters for Crestliner Boats. Dixon was chosen due to its central location between Chicago and Milwaukee which provided easy access to transportation routes for shipping finished products across North America. Additionally, Dixon offered a skilled workforce with experience in metalworking industries - perfect for building aluminum boats. Since moving production to Dixon in 1985, Crestliner has continued to grow and innovate under different ownerships including Genmar Holdings Inc., Brunswick Corporation,and now Boat Holdings LLC since 2018. Today,Crestliners are still manufactured at their state-of-the-art facility in Dixon using advanced technology such as robotic welding machines while also incorporating hand-crafted techniques into each boat’s construction. In recent years, Crestliner has expanded its product line to include a wide range of recreational and fishing boats, from small utility models to larger deep-V hulls. They have also incorporated new features and designs such as the SureMount Gunnel System for customization options and the innovative Hull Design that delivers superior performance on the water. Crestliner's history in Dixon is an important part of both the company's legacy and the city's economy. The company employs over 300 people at its Dixon facility, providing jobs and opportunities for local residents. In addition, Crestliner supports various community initiatives through donations and sponsorships. Today, Crestliner continues to be a leader in aluminum boat manufacturing with a reputation for quality craftsmanship and durability. Its rich history in Dixon reflects their dedication to innovation and commitment to producing high-quality boats that meet the needs of every angler or boating enthusiast.

Dixon, Illinois is a small city located in the heart of Lee County. It is known as the "Petunia City" due to its annual Petunia Festival which celebrates the beautiful flower and brings together members of the community for a week-long event filled with parades, live music, and various activities. The history of Dixon dates back to 1828 when John Dixon established a ferry across Rock River, providing an important transportation route between Galena and Chicago. The town was officially laid out two years later by Joseph Ogee and named after John Dixon. The first settlers were mostly farmers who took advantage of the fertile land along Rock River. In 1834, Abraham Lincoln came to visit his friend William Kirkpatrick who lived in Dixon at the time. One of the most significant events in Dixon's history was its role as a key supply center during the Civil War. Due to its location on both railroads and waterways, it became an essential hub for transporting troops, supplies, and munitions to other parts of the country. During this time, Camp Douglas was also established just outside of town as a training ground for Union soldiers. By the late 19th century, industry began to flourish in Dixon with several factories producing agricultural equipment such as plows and harvesting machines. This led to a period of economic growth that continued well into the 20th century. In addition to being an industrial center, agriculture has always been an integral part of Dixon's economy. The surrounding farmland produces corn, soybeans, wheat,and livestock such as cattle and hogs. Many family-owned farms still operate today despite urbanization spreading from nearby cities like Chicago. Another notable aspect about Dixon is its connection to former President Ronald Reagan. He spent much of his childhood here after his family moved from Tampico when he was nine years old. Reagan attended high school in Dixon where he excelled in sports and drama. His family's home, known as the Reagan Boyhood Home, is now a museum and popular tourist attraction. Today, Dixon continues to thrive and evolve. It has a diverse population of approximately 15,000 residents and offers all the amenities of a small city while maintaining its charming small-town atmosphere. The downtown area boasts locally-owned shops, restaurants,and galleries that contribute to its unique character. Dixon also values education with several public and private schools serving students from kindergarten through high school. Sauk Valley Community College is located in nearby Sterling and provides higher education opportunities for those seeking technical or associate degrees. In terms of recreation, Dixon has plenty to offer outdoor enthusiasts. With over 20 parks throughout the city, residents can enjoy activities such as fishing,hiking,biking,and camping. Lowell Park is especially popular with its beautiful scenery along Rock River and historic sites like the Lincoln Monument which marks where Abraham Lincoln served as an officer during his time in Dixon. For cultural experiences,the Historic Downtown Theatre hosts live performances including plays,musicals,and concerts year-round. The Loveland Museum also showcases local artists' works alongside rotating exhibits from around the country. One of Dixon's most significant recent developments is its commitment to sustainable living practices through initiatives like solar panel installations on government buildings,a community garden program,and efforts towards energy efficiency in public facilities.This reflects the community's dedication to preserving their natural surroundings for future generations. In conclusion,Dixon may be a small city,but it has left its mark on Illinois history through its contribution during the Civil War and being home to one of America's beloved former presidents.Its strong sense of community,resilient economy,and commitment to sustainability make it an attractive place for people looking for a close-knit hometown feel.With continued growth and development,it will undoubtedly continue to flourish while maintaining its rich heritage.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, with a rich history spanning over 70 years. The company's origins can be traced back to the small town of Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946. Founder Richard "Dick" Bond began building aluminum fishing boats in his garage, using surplus aircraft material from World War II. His vision was to create high-quality and durable boats that could withstand the rugged waters of Minnesota's lakes and rivers. The first Crestliner boat produced was called the "Little Giant," a 14-foot model that quickly gained popularity among local fishermen. As demand grew, Bond moved production out of his garage and into a larger facility in Little Falls. This marked the beginning of Crestliner as an official company. In its early years, Crestliner focused on producing aluminum fishing boats for recreational use. However, during the Korean War in the early 1950s, there was a shortage of steel which led to increased demand for aluminum products. This presented an opportunity for Crestliner to expand its market beyond just recreational boating. During this time, Crestliner also developed their signature extruded gunwale system – an innovative feature that allowed for stronger construction and better stability on rough waters. This patented design became a staple feature on all future models and set Crestliner apart from other boat manufacturers. In 1954, Richard Bond sold his majority share of Crestliner to Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), but remained involved with the company until his retirement in 1972. Under OMC’s ownership, Crestliner continued to grow and expand its product line while maintaining its reputation for quality craftsmanship. Throughout the next few decades, changes within OMC would have significant impacts on Crestliner's operations. In 1988 OMC acquired rival boat manufacturer Lowe Boats and merged it with their existing Aluminum Division which included brands like Lund Boats and Sea Nymph Boats under the Crestliner umbrella. In 1996, OMC filed for bankruptcy and was eventually acquired by Genmar Holdings. This change in ownership resulted in Crestliner being sold off to Brunswick Corporation, a global leader in the marine industry. Under Brunswick’s leadership, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its product offerings. In 2013, they introduced their new "Retriever" series of boats designed specifically for hunting and fishing enthusiasts. These models featured an all-welded aluminum construction and specialized features like gun boxes and dog ladders. Today, Crestliner offers a diverse range of models including aluminum fishing boats, pontoons, deck boats, and jon boats. Each boat is built with precision using advanced engineering techniques to ensure durability and performance on the water. Crestliner has also stayed true to its roots by maintaining production facilities in Little Falls where it all began. The company takes pride in supporting local economy by providing jobs within the community. In recent years, Crestliner has focused on incorporating modern technology into their designs while staying true to their commitment of producing high-quality durable boats. They have partnered with major engine manufacturers such as Mercury Marine and Yamaha Outboards to offer customers top-of-the-line power options for their boats. Additionally, Crestliner has implemented innovative features such as SureMount Gunnel Accessory System which allows boaters to easily customize their boat with fishing accessories without drilling any holes into the hull or compromising structural integrity. The brand's dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed; over the years they have received numerous awards for design innovation and customer satisfaction from organizations such as NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) , J.D Power & Associates,and Boating Industry Magazine . In conclusion,Crestliner's journey from a small garage operation to one of today's most recognized names in boating is a testament to its founders' vision of building quality products that withstand time.Innovation,determination,and adaptability have been key factors in the company's success and continue to drive its growth today. Crestliner remains a top choice for boating enthusiasts looking for reliable, durable, and high-performing vessels on the water.

Crestliner is a well-known boating company that has been in operation for over 70 years. Founded in 1946, Crestliner has built a reputation for producing high-quality aluminum boats and pontoons. The company was started by two brothers, Dave and Willis Baldwin, who were passionate fishermen and saw the potential for aluminum boats to revolutionize the boating industry. They began building their first boat, the "Aluminum Boat," in Little Falls, Minnesota. In the early years of Crestliner's history, the company focused on making durable and lightweight fishing boats that were perfect for avid anglers. Their innovative designs quickly gained popularity among fishermen across the United States. In 1953, Crestliner introduced its patented Tru-V hull design which allowed for better stability and handling on rough waters. This design set them apart from other boat manufacturers at the time and became a signature feature of all their models. Throughout the following decades, Crestliner continued to expand its product line to include not only fishing boats but also runabouts and cruisers. In addition to aluminum construction, they also began using fiberglass materials in some of their models. In 1991, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner as part of its marine division portfolio. This partnership brought new resources and opportunities for growth to Crestliner while still allowing them to maintain their reputation for quality craftsmanship. Today, Crestliner offers a wide range of boats including deep V-hulls designed specifically for big-water adventures as well as versatile multispecies models suitable for both fishing and recreational use. They continue to innovate with features such as SureMount Gunnel Systems – an integrated mounting system that allows users to easily customize their boat with accessories such as rod holders or cup holders. Crestliner also prides itself on being environmentally conscious by implementing sustainable practices into its manufacturing process and offering electric motors options on select models. With over seven decades of experience in building durable and reliable watercraft, Crestliner remains a top choice for boaters looking for high-quality boats that can withstand the test of time. From its humble beginnings in Minnesota to being part of one of the largest marine companies in the world, Crestliner has established itself as an industry leader and continues to push boundaries with its innovative designs and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Located in the northwestern region of Illinois, Dixon is a historic city with a rich past. Its history dates back to the early 1800s when it was founded as a small trading post by John Dixon, for whom the city is named after. Over time, Dixon has transformed from a humble settlement into an important hub for commerce and industry in the Midwest. Early History: The land on which Dixon now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox. They lived along the Rock River Valley and used it for hunting and fishing. In 1804, Captain Nathan Boone (son of famous frontiersman Daniel Boone) led an expedition to survey this area for potential settlement. In 1828, John Dixon arrived at this location looking for opportunities to trade fur. He established a trading post near present-day downtown Dixon and quickly became well-known among traders and Native Americans in the area. The following year, he built his first permanent residence here along with several other buildings including a schoolhouse. Growth & Development: Dixon's growth accelerated after it was officially designated as Lee County's seat of government in 1839. This brought many new settlers who were attracted by its fertile farmland and proximity to waterways like Rock River that made transportation easier. With more people moving into town, businesses began to flourish here too. By mid-19th century, Dixon had established itself as an important commercial center with numerous industries such as flour mills, sawmills, foundries and brick yards operating within its boundaries. In addition to agriculture & manufacturing sector development; construction of railroads connecting major cities also spurred economic growth throughout late 19th century & early part of 20th century further boosting trade prospects significantly over time. Notable Events: Despite its peaceful beginnings; like any other community across US - even this beautiful place wasn't spared from some critical events during course of its development. In 1832, the Black Hawk War broke out between settlers and Native Americans in this region resulting in displacement of many indigenous people from their ancestral homes. Dixon was also home to one of Abraham Lincoln's most famous speeches - the "Lost Speech" delivered at its Lyceum Hall in 1856 which was lost for nearly a century before being rediscovered by chance. In July 1871, Dixon faced one of its biggest disasters when a massive fire destroyed almost all of downtown area burning over two-thirds of total buildings including public buildings like courthouse & churches. But thankfully no major injuries or loss-of-life were reported during that incident. Modern Development: After surviving through challenging times; Dixon continued to grow and develop throughout the 20th century with construction of new schools, hospitals and other municipal infrastructure facilities. It emerged as a key center for agribusinesses with several large grain elevators located here along Rock River serving local farming communities nearby. Today it is an important regional hub for retail trade encompassing various businesses such as restaurants, hotels, shopping centers & gas stations catering to local population needs besides attracting tourists visiting historic sites like John Deere Historic Site (located just east side). Conclusion: From its humble beginning as a trading post on the banks of Rock River; Dixon has grown into an industrious city while preserving its rich heritage over time. With strong community values & resilient spirit reflected through years despite facing some turbulent events; it remains proud representative showcasing Illinois' rural heartland legacy till today inspiring visitors from across US who come seeking quality life experiences away-from-hustle-bustle otherwise pervasive metropolitan areas elsewhere!

Dixon, Illinois is a small city located in Lee County, situated along the Rock River. The area was originally home to Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Fox nations. In 1828, brothers John and Joseph Dixon arrived from Kentucky and established a settlement on the banks of the river. The town grew quickly as it became an important transportation hub for goods being shipped downriver to larger cities. By 1830, Dixon had its first post office and by 1837 it was officially incorporated as a village. In the mid-19th century, Dixon experienced significant growth with the construction of several railroads passing through the town. This brought more businesses and industries to Dixon, including lumber mills, flour mills, foundries, and factories producing agricultural equipment. One notable event in Dixon's history occurred in 1856 when Abraham Lincoln visited while campaigning for his first presidential term. He gave a speech at what is now known as Lincoln Statue Park where a statue of him still stands today. During the late 1800s and early 1900s, many immigrants came to settle in Dixon from countries such as Germany, Ireland, Sweden,and Norway. They contributed greatly to the development of agriculture in the surrounding areas. Dixon also played a role in World War II as it served as home base for Camp Grant soldiers who were stationed there before being sent overseas. Afterward,the military used Camp Grant again during both Korean Warand Vietnam Waras well . In recent years,Dixon has faced some challenges such asthe Great Depression that saw many businesses close down or reduce their operations due to economic hardship.However,the community persevered through these difficult timesand continuedto grow with new industries emerging,such asthe productionof steel products atthe Ronald Reagan Steel Mill which openedin1964and operated until2001.The millwas named after former President Ronald Reagan who spent part of his childhood living near Dixon. Dixon has also been home to several notable individuals, including John Deere who invented the self-scouring plow and Joseph Glidden who invented barbed wire. Another famous resident is Ronald Reagan, who was born in nearby Tampico but spent his formative years in Dixon. Today,Dixon has a population of approximately 16,000 people and is known for its vibrant downtown area filled with unique shops, restaurants,and historical buildings. The city hosts an annual Petunia Festival which celebrates the town's history as the "Petunia Capital of Illinois" due to its large-scale production of petunias. Overall,Dixon's rich history reflects its evolution from a small settlement along the Rock River to a thriving community that continues to grow and adapt while preserving its past.

The city of Dixon, Illinois has a rich history in the manufacturing and production of boats. One company that stands out in this industry is Crestliner, which has made a significant impact on the local economy and community since its inception. Crestliner was founded in 1946 by four brothers – Willis, Charles, Harry, and Bob Morrell – who were passionate about boating and fishing. The brothers had extensive experience working at Larson Boats before venturing out to start their own business. They saw an opportunity to create high-quality aluminum boats that could withstand the harsh waters of Lake Michigan. Initially, Crestliner operated out of a small garage where they built wooden-hull boats. However, with the increasing demand for aluminum boats post-World War II due to their durability and low maintenance costs, Crestliner shifted its focus towards producing these types of vessels. In 1953, Crestliner moved to a larger facility on River Street in Dixon with over 35 employees. This move allowed them to expand their production capacity and offer more diverse models such as runabouts, cruisers, sailboats, pontoons, and canoes. By the late 1960s/early 1970s,Crestliner's popularity grew exponentially as they introduced new technologies such as rivet-free construction techniques using Tite-Lok fasteners instead. This innovation reduced production time while making their boats lighter yet stronger than traditional methods. During this period,Crestliner also established itself as an industry leader by introducing fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) hull designs into their line-up of aluminum vessels.In addition,Crestlineralso began experimenting with various boat finishes including powder-coated paint jobs.Proudly Made-in-America,the brand quickly became synonymous with quality,durability,and reliability across North America. With economic growth came further expansion forCrestliner's facilities.The company expanded operations from one plantto three plants withinDixon.The first plant was on River Street,the second near Crawford Avenue,and the third followed on Progress Drive.With each expansion came a new wave of job opportunities for locals looking to work in the boating industry. Crestliner's commitment to innovation and quality led them to introduce many “firsts”in the marine industry. In 1975, they were one of the first boat manufacturers to offer fully automated welding processes for aluminum boats. This allowed for precision manufacturing and resulted in stronger, more durable vessels. In 2004,Crestliner made history by becoming one of the first companies in their sectorto offer fully painted boat finishes.By usingstate-of-the-artin-house powder coating systems,Crestlinerwas able to deliver high-quality,customizable paint jobs that could withstand even harsh marine conditions.These innovations helped solidify Crestliner as a leader in advanced metal fabrication and finishing techniques within Illinois'boating market. Today,Crestliner continues its tradition of excellence with its headquarters still based out of Dixon. The company employs over 300 people from Dixon and surrounding areas, making it an essential contributor to the local economy. It is also recognized as a vital part of Dixon's identity – being referred to as "the hometown brand." The success story of Crestliner cannot be told without acknowledging its dedication towards supporting local communities.In additionto providing employment opportunities,the company regularly donates boatsand sponsors events such as fishing tournaments,fishing clinics,and conservation efforts.This involvement has earned Crestlinera positive reputation within both business circles and community groups alike.As such,it comesas no surprise that several branches including finance,operations,research,and developmentremain headquartered at their original factory locationon River Street.Additionally,president Brian Reese remains determinedthat all operations stay true-to-home.He believes this focus keeps his team motivated while upholdingCestlinerscommitmenttowardsquality craftsmanshipwithinNorth America.Furthermore,having been born-and-raised locally himself,Reese has a vested interest in maintaining the company's strong relationships with local suppliersandDixon residents. In conclusion, Crestliner is not just a brand but an integral part of Dixon's history and economy. From its humble beginnings as a small garage operation to becoming one of the leading boat manufacturers in North America,Crestlinerhas shown resilience,determination,and innovation throughout its journey.Furthermore,the company has established itself as an important member of the community by providing employment opportunities and supporting local events.Crestlinerserves asa shining exampleof how businesses can thrive while staying true to their roots and making significant contributions to their communities.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, known for its high-quality and innovative boats. The company was founded in 1946 by William Morser Sr., who had a passion for building durable and reliable boats. Over the years, Crestliner has become one of the most trusted brands for recreational fishermen, outdoor enthusiasts, and professional anglers. The history of Crestliner dates back to World War II when William Morser Sr., along with his son Jim Morser, started building military landing craft at their welding shop in Little Falls, Minnesota. After the war ended, they saw an opportunity to use their expertise in aluminum fabrication to build fishing boats that were both lightweight and durable. And so began the journey of Crestliner. In its early days, Crestliner focused on producing small utility boats made from aluminum sheets welded together. However, as time passed and technology advanced, the company expanded its product line to include larger fishing vessels with more sophisticated features such as live wells and trolling motors. One of Crestliner's defining moments came in 1960 when it introduced its first all-welded boat – a revolutionary design that eliminated rivets from the hull construction process. This not only made their boats stronger but also allowed them to offer a lifetime warranty on all hulls – something unheard of at that time. Through continuous innovation and improvement processes over decades, today's Crestliners are built using cutting-edge technology like robotic welders and computer-aided design (CAD). These advancements have enabled them to produce highly precise components resulting in superior quality products. Apart from technological advancements, another factor that sets Crestliner apart is its commitment towards sustainability. The company uses recycled materials wherever possible without compromising on quality or durability. This not only reduces environmental impact but also results in cost-effective production methods making their products accessible to more people worldwide. Crestliner offers an array of models across different categories like bass, walleye, fish and ski, aluminum fishing boats, tiller boats, deep-V boats and pontoons. Each model is designed to cater to specific needs of different types of anglers. The company also offers customization options for customers who want a boat tailor-made to their specific requirements. One of Crestliner's most popular models is the Fish Hawk series – designed specifically for recreational fishermen. These boats are built with angling features like live wells, rod storage compartments and casting platforms in mind. Their premium construction ensures that these vessels can withstand harsh weather conditions while providing a smooth ride on the water. The Sportfish series by Crestliner caters to those looking for versatile options that can be used both as a fishing boat and as an all-purpose family vessel. These boats come equipped with comfortable seating arrangements, ample storage space and powerful motors making them perfect for weekend getaways or fishing trips with friends. Crestliner's pontoons have also gained immense popularity among boating enthusiasts over the years due to their comfort and versatility. They offer multiple layouts including entertainment-focused designs ideal for large groups or more intimate configurations suitable for smaller gatherings. Apart from its exceptional products, Crestliner prides itself on providing excellent customer service through its network of dealers across North America and internationally. Its commitment towards customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards including being named one of America's Most Trusted Brands by Reader's Digest in 2016. In addition to producing top-quality boats, Crestliner also actively supports conservation efforts aimed at preserving natural resources such as clean water bodies where people can enjoy boating activities safely without harming marine life or ecosystems. In conclusion, Crestliner has established itself as a leader in the boating industry through its dedication towards innovation, sustainability and customer satisfaction. With a rich history spanning over seven decades coupled with cutting-edge technology and unwavering commitment towards excellence; it comes as no surprise why this brand continues to be a favorite among boating enthusiasts worldwide. Whether you are a professional angler, outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a recreational boat, Crestliner has something to offer for everyone.