Crestliner is a well-known brand in the world of boating, particularly for its high-quality aluminum boats. The company has a rich history that can be traced back to East Moline, Illinois, where it all began. The story of Crestliner begins in 1946 when Lars Thorwaldson and Emil Peterson founded MirroCraft Boats in Little Falls, Wisconsin. They started out by producing small fishing boats made from aluminum and quickly gained popularity for their durability and affordability. In 1953, MirroCraft Boats acquired another boat manufacturing company called Waseca Boat Works located in East Moline, Illinois. This acquisition led to the birth of Crestliner as we know it today. East Moline was an ideal location for boat production due to its proximity to the Mississippi River and access to raw materials such as aluminum. The factory was situated on approximately 12 acres of land with direct access to the river through a private harbor. With the new acquisition came changes in management and production techniques. Under new leadership, Crestliner expanded its product line beyond just fishing boats to include pleasure crafts such as ski boats and runabouts. This diversification helped them cater to a wider audience and establish themselves as one of the top players in the boating industry. By utilizing advanced technology and innovative designs, Crestliner continued to improve upon their products' quality while maintaining affordable prices. Their focus on customer satisfaction also played a significant role in establishing a loyal customer base both locally and internationally. In addition to producing high-quality boats, Crestliner also contributed significantly to the local economy by providing jobs for residents of East Moline. At its peak during the 1960s-70s, over 400 people were employed at their facility. However, like many other industries during this time period, Crestliner faced challenges due to economic downturns causing fluctuations in demand for recreational products such as boats. In response, they diversified their product line even further, including the production of pontoon boats and houseboats. Despite these challenges, Crestliner continued to thrive in East Moline with its excellent reputation for producing top-notch boats. In 1984, they opened a new state-of-the-art facility in Cortland, New York, to cater to the increasing demand for their products on the East Coast. In 1991, Crestliner was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – one of the world's leading manufacturers of marine products. This acquisition allowed Crestliner to access more resources and expand its distribution network globally. Today, Crestliner continues its legacy as a leader in aluminum boat manufacturing from its headquarters in New York. However, their roots remain firmly planted in East Moline where it all began. The company has always remained committed to providing quality products while also giving back to the community that supported them over the years. Crestliner has been a vital part of East Moline's history and growth over the decades. Although they no longer have a physical presence in town following relocation efforts by Brunswick Corporation in 2009-2010, their impact is still felt through memories shared by residents who worked at or were associated with the factory. The story of Crestliner is not just about building boats; it is about creating opportunities for people and contributing positively towards society's development. Today, many recognize Crestliner as much more than just a brand; it represents innovation, hard work, and perseverance – values that are deeply rooted within East Moline's culture. In conclusion,'the history of Crestliner' goes beyond just being an account of how a successful boating company came into existence. It reflects upon how one small acquisition led to significant changes not only within an industry but also within a community's fabric. It is undoubtedly an inspiring tale that demonstrates what can be achieved with determination and dedication towards achieving excellence.

Crestliner is a renowned and reputable American boat manufacturer with over 70 years of experience in the marine industry. The company has been designing, building, and innovating high-quality boats that are known for their durability, performance, and craftsmanship. Since its inception in 1946, Crestliner has become one of the leading brands in the boating world, offering a wide range of aluminum fishing boats and pontoons to cater to every customer's needs. The history of Crestliner dates back to World War II when it was founded by Dave Beckman Sr. in Little Falls, Minnesota. At that time, Beckman had a vision to build superior quality boats using aluminum - a material that was not commonly used for boat manufacturing at the time. His idea quickly gained popularity as customers were impressed by his lightweight yet sturdy designs. In 1948, Crestliner introduced its first model –the Phantom- which became an instant success due to its innovative design and affordable price point. This marked the beginning of Crestliner’s journey towards becoming one of the most recognized names in boating. Over the years, Crestliner continued to expand its product line while maintaining its core values –quality construction and unmatched performance. In 1959, they launched their all-welded hull technology which revolutionized boat construction techniques at that time. This innovation set them apart from other manufacturers as it offered increased strength and durability compared to traditional riveted hulls. In 1961,Crestliner merged with another well-known brand; Larson Boats Inc., further strengthening their position in the market. The following decades saw numerous advancements made by Crestliner such as introducing new models like Sportfisher series (1973), Sabrecraft Cruisers (1980), Fish Hawk series (1997) among others. Today,Crestliner offers one of the largest selections of welded aluminum fishing boats on both freshwater lakes/rivers or saltwater oceans/gulf. Their models range from 16 to 21 feet and are designed for fishing, watersports or cruising. One of the key factors that set Crestliner apart from its competitors is their commitment to quality. All of their boats go through rigorous testing procedures before being released into the market. This ensures that each boat meets high standards in terms of durability, performance, and safety. Crestliner’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of their boats, from the design to the construction process. They use only premium-grade aluminum alloys which are carefully crafted using state-of-the-art technology such as robotic welding machines and CNC routers. These advanced techniques ensure that every Crestliner boat has a precise fit and finish resulting in a strong yet lightweight vessel. Moreover,Crestliner offers customization options on most of its models allowing customers to add features according to their preferences. This includes upgrading electronics systems, adding additional seating or storage options among others. Apart from providing top-notch products,Crestliner also prides itself on excellent customer service. They have an extensive network of dealers who are trained professionals equipped with knowledge about the product line and can assist customers with any inquiries or concerns they may have regarding their purchase. In addition to producing high-quality boats,Crestliner is also committed to protecting our environment by implementing sustainable manufacturing practices. They were one of the first companies in the boating industry to adopt environmentally friendly production methods, including using recycled materials whenever possible,and reducing waste through efficient processes. As part of Brunswick Corporation -oneofthe largest marine manufacturers- Crestliner has access to advanced research facilities and resources which enables themto continuously innovateand stay aheadintheindustry.Combinedwitha teamofdedicatedengineersand designers,the company constantly strives towards improving existing designs while developing new ones.These efforts have been recognized by numerous awards over the years,such as winning multiple Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awardsfromthe National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). In conclusion, Crestliner is a brand that has stood the test of time and continues to deliver exceptional products to its customers. With a rich history of innovation, quality,and commitment to excellence,Crestliner has become synonymous with durability, performance,and craftsmanship in the boating world. Whether you are an avid fisherman or someone who enjoys spending time on the water,Crestliner has a boat model that will cater to your needs and exceed your expectations.

Crestliner is a well-known boat manufacturing company that was founded in 1946 by the Thompson family in Little Falls, Minnesota. The company's headquarters were established in Little Falls and they quickly gained recognition for their high-quality aluminum boats. In 1953, Crestliner expanded its operations to East Moline, Illinois with the acquisition of a former John Deere tractor plant. This move allowed the company to increase production and meet the growing demand for their boats. The East Moline facility became one of Crestliner's main manufacturing plants, producing various models of fishing boats and pontoons. The location was strategically chosen due to its close proximity to major waterways such as the Mississippi River and Rock River, making it easier to transport finished products across the country. Over the years, Crestliner continued to thrive in East Moline with constant innovation and improvements in their boat designs. They also invested heavily in advanced technology and equipment at their facility, allowing them to produce a wide range of products including fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) boats. In addition to manufacturing, Crestliner also had a strong presence in East Moline through its research and development department. This team worked closely with local fishermen and boaters to gather feedback on how they could improve their products for better performance on the water. The success of Crestliner's operations in East Moline can be attributed not only to its skilled workforce but also its dedication towards community involvement. The company has been actively involved in supporting local events such as fishing tournaments and sponsoring youth programs aimed at promoting boating safety education. Today, Crestliner remains a prominent employer within East Moline with hundreds of employees working at their state-of-the-art facility. Their commitment towards quality craftsmanship has earned them numerous awards over the years including "Best Aluminum Boat Manufacturer" by Boating Industry Magazine. In recent years, Crestliner has expanded into international markets while still maintaining production at its East Moline plant. The company's presence in the city has not only contributed to its economic growth but also cemented its position as a leader in the boating industry.

East Moline, Illinois is a small city located in Rock Island County, nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River. It is part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area and has a population of approximately 21,000 people. The history of East Moline dates back to the early 19th century when it was first established as a farming community. In the mid-1800s, East Moline was known for its rich agricultural land and became an important hub for commerce and trade in the region. The arrival of railroads further boosted its economy and led to significant growth in population. By the turn of the 20th century, East Moline had transformed into a thriving industrial center with large factories producing farm equipment, steel products, and other goods. The city's name comes from its location on the eastern side of Moline – another prominent city in Illinois. In fact, until 1907 both cities were officially known as "Molines" but were later separated by state legislation that created two distinct municipalities. One major event that shaped East Moline's identity was World War II when several industries moved their operations to support war efforts. This influx of workers resulted in a surge in population and economic development for the city. However, after WWII ended, many businesses closed down or relocated leading to an economic decline. In recent years though, East Moline has experienced revitalization efforts aimed at diversifying its economy beyond just manufacturing industries. Today it boasts a mix of small businesses ranging from local shops to national chains such as Walmart and Target. Despite being overshadowed by larger neighboring cities like Davenport (Iowa) and Rock Island (Illinois), East Moline has plenty to offer residents and visitors alike. Its strategic location along Interstate-74 makes it easily accessible while also providing scenic views along with riverfront parks perfect for recreational activities like boating or fishing. One notable attraction is The John Deere Pavilion, a museum that showcases the history and innovations of the company founded in nearby Moline. East Moline is also home to the Quad City Speedway – a popular racetrack for motorsports enthusiasts. Education is well-catered for with six public schools within city limits, including United Township High School which has produced several notable alumni such as NFL players Sean Considine and Jason Spitz. The community spirit in East Moline is evident through various annual events like "Farm Days" – a celebration of its farming heritage, and "Freedom Fest" – a Fourth of July festival featuring live music, food vendors, and fireworks display. East Moline's diverse population adds to its cultural richness with residents from different ethnic backgrounds celebrating their traditions and customs throughout the year. The city also has a vibrant arts scene with local art galleries showcasing works by talented artists from the region. In recent years, there have been efforts to revitalize downtown East Moline by renovating historic buildings and attracting new businesses. This has led to an increase in job opportunities for residents as well as creating a more attractive environment for visitors. However, like many small cities across America, East Moline faces challenges such as poverty and crime rates higher than state averages. The local government has implemented measures to address these issues through community programs aimed at reducing crime rates and supporting low-income families. Overall, East Moline may be small in size but it offers big opportunities for those who call it home or visit. Its rich history coupled with ongoing revitalization efforts make it an interesting place to explore while its strong sense of community makes it an ideal place to settle down or raise a family. With continued growth and development initiatives underway, this hidden gem along the Mississippi River is sure to shine even brighter in the years to come.

Crestliner is a company that has been synonymous with quality and innovation in the boating industry for over 70 years. Founded in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946, Crestliner has become one of the most recognized names in aluminum boats worldwide. From humble beginnings to global success, this paper will delve into the history of Crestliner and explore how it has evolved into the brand it is today. The early days of Crestliner began with two brothers, Dave and Willis Northrup who were passionate about fishing and hunting. They saw a need for durable yet affordable boats that could withstand rough waters and provide anglers with a comfortable experience on the water. With their knowledge of welding aluminum gained from working at their father's sheet metal business, they set out to create "the best boat possible." In 1946, with just $20 worth of scrap aluminum sheets, they built their first boat - The Gopher II. It was an instant hit among local fishermen who were impressed by its superior craftsmanship and performance compared to other wooden or fiberglass boats available at that time. Soon after its launch, orders started pouring in from all over Minnesota. Inspired by this success, Dave Northrup came up with a revolutionary idea - instead of using rivets like other manufacturers did; he decided to weld every seam on these boats together creating a seamless hull design. This not only made them more durable but also increased their speed due to reduced drag on the water. By 1950s Crestliner had grown significantly as demand for their boats continued to rise across America. In order to keep up with production demands while maintaining high-quality standards, they moved operations from Little Falls to Little Falls Lake where they bought an old schoolhouse which served as both factory and office space. During this period they introduced several new models including SeaHawk – designed specifically for saltwater fishing enthusiasts- which became very popular on both coasts due its ability to withstand the harsh marine environment. In 1956, Crestliner expanded into pontoon boats and quickly became a leader in this market segment as well. In the 1960s, Crestliner underwent some major changes when Dave Northrup sold his share of the company to Willis who then brought on board Gerald Knutson as a partner. The three men shared a vision for growth and innovation which led them to purchase an old canning factory in Little Falls where they established their new headquarters. During this decade, Crestliner introduced its first fiberglass boat- The Norseman. Despite initial skepticism from die-hard aluminum enthusiasts, it was a huge success due its sleek design and improved performance capabilities. This marked the beginning of Crestliner's expansion into different materials while still maintaining their core focus on quality construction and superior performance. The next few decades saw continued growth and diversification for Crestliner with acquisitions of other companies such as MonArk Marine (1983) which allowed them to expand into recreational boating markets beyond fishing. In 1991, Brunswick Corporation acquired Monark-Crestliner Inc., making it part of one of the largest marine manufacturers in the world. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner continued to innovate by introducing groundbreaking technologies such as Uni-Weld hull construction that eliminated all rivets from boat design completely- making them even stronger than before. They also launched several popular models like Fish Hawk SC series -designed specifically for big water fishing enthusiasts- which won numerous awards for its advanced features and exceptional performance. Today, under Brunswick's leadership; Crestliner continues to be at forefront of innovation within the boating industry with multiple manufacturing facilities across Minnesota employing over 600 people worldwide producing thousands of boats each year ranging from small utility vessels used primarily by anglers or hunters up through large family cruisers built for luxury leisure travel on inland lakes or oceans alike Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1946. Its commitment to quality, innovation and customer satisfaction has not wavered over the years making it a globally recognized brand in the boating world. With its rich history of creating boats that cater to every type of boater- from hardcore anglers to casual cruisers- Crestliner is sure to continue its success well into the future.

Crestliner is a brand of aluminum fishing boats that has been in production since 1946. The company was founded by William Morser Sr., who had been building wooden boats during the Great Depression. Seeing the potential for aluminum to revolutionize boatbuilding, he started Crestliner. In its early years, Crestliner focused on producing small, lightweight fishing boats that could be easily transported and launched by one person. These boats were popular among fishermen and quickly gained a reputation for their durability and stability on the water. In 1951, Crestliner introduced its first pontoon boat, which proved to be another successful venture for the company. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Crestliner continued to expand its line of fishing boats with new models and features such as livewells and swivel seats. The company experienced significant growth in the 1970s when it was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which also owned other well-known boating brands like Johnson Outboards and Evinrude Motors. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner expanded its product offerings beyond just fishing boats to include recreational runabouts and cruisers. However, in 2001 OMC went bankrupt and sold off many of its assets including Crestliner. The brand was then purchased by Brunswick Corporation, a leading manufacturer of marine products. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner has continued to innovate with advanced technologies such as variable deadrise hull designs that improve handling on rough waters. In recent years they have also incorporated more modern amenities into their boats such as touchscreen displays, integrated speakers systems, and LED lighting. Today,Crestliner offers a wide range of aluminum fishing boats designed for various types of anglers - from weekend warriors to professional tournament fishermen. They are known for their sturdy construction using high-quality materials that can withstand harsh conditions while providing a smooth ride on the water. In addition to constantly improving their boats, Crestliner also prioritizes environmental sustainability. They have implemented eco-friendly practices in their manufacturing processes and use recycled materials whenever possible. Over the years, Crestliner has built a loyal following of customers who appreciate the brand's commitment to quality, durability, and innovation. With a rich history spanning over 75 years, Crestliner continues to be a leader in the fishing boat industry and remains dedicated to providing anglers with top-of-the-line boats for all types of fishing adventures.

East Moline, Illinois is a small city located in Rock Island County in the state of Illinois. Situated along the banks of the Mississippi River, East Moline has a rich and diverse history that dates back to its early settlement by Native American tribes. Over the years, this once quiet farming community has transformed into an industrial hub with a thriving economy and a vibrant cultural scene. Native American History: The land that is now known as East Moline was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox Indians. These tribes lived off the abundant wildlife and fertile land provided by the Mississippi River. In 1804, during negotiations for the Louisiana Purchase, Chief Black Hawk signed over his tribe's rights to their ancestral lands in what would become modern-day East Moline. Early Settlement: In 1835, brothers John Deere and Charles Deere purchased 2,000 acres of land near present-day East Moline to expand their farm equipment business. This marked one of first significant settlements in what would later become known as "Deere Country." The arrival of European settlers led to further development of agriculture in this region which was ideal for growing corn and other crops. Industrial Boom: The late 19th century saw a major shift towards industrialization with several companies setting up factories along the Mississippi River including International Harvester Company (IHC), Montgomery Ward & Co., Velie Motor Corporation, William Butterworth Linseed Oil Works among others. With these industries came an influx of immigrants from Europe seeking job opportunities resulting in a diverse population within East Moline. Growth and Incorporation: With increasing economic growth due to its many factories along with improvements made on transportation infrastructure such as railroads connecting it to other cities like Chicago contributed significantly towards making East Moline an important commercial center between Iowa City and Chicago leading it being incorporated as a village on July 31st,1903 followed by becoming a city on April 2,1907. World War II and Post-War Era: During World War II, East Moline played a pivotal role in the war effort as many of its factories were converted to produce ammunition and other essential supplies for the military. This led to an economic boom resulting in increased employment opportunities leading to population growth. After the war, East Moline continued its industrial development with companies like International Harvester Company expanding their operations. Modern Times: In recent years, East Moline has seen a shift towards diversifying its economy by attracting new businesses such as John Deere Worldwide Logistics headquarters which employs over 1,000 people. The Quad City International Airport also plays a significant role in facilitating business travel and cargo transportation from this region making it an important regional hub for commerce. Cultural Scene: East Moline is home to several cultural landmarks that are reflective of its diverse history. One such landmark is the Rock Island Arsenal Museum which showcases artifacts from Native American tribes along with weapons used during different wars including World War II. The historic Deere-Wiman House built-in 1875 by Charles Wiman who was one of John Deere's close associates serves as another testament to East Moline's rich past. Education: East Moline boasts several public schools providing quality education to students living within its jurisdiction under United Township High School District #30 while Black Hawk College offers higher education opportunities for those seeking technical training or associate degrees. Conclusion: In conclusion, East Moline has come a long way since its early days as a farming community. From being inhabited by Native American tribes to becoming an industrial hub with diverse industries, this city has witnessed significant growth and development over time. Its unique blend of historical landmarks and modern amenities make it an attractive place to live and work in today's times. As we look towards the future, one thing is certain – East Moline will continue thriving while honoring its rich past.

East Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County in the western region of the state. It was founded in 1903 as a planned industrial community and has since grown into a diverse and thriving city. The history of East Moline can be traced back to the early 19th century when European settlers began to arrive in the area. The land that is now East Moline was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Fox tribes who were led by Chief Black Hawk. However, with westward expansion came conflicts between settlers and Native Americans, resulting in their forced removal from this area. In 1903, John Deere & Company purchased approximately 1,200 acres of farmland along the Mississippi River to establish their new factory for manufacturing agricultural equipment. This marked the beginning of East Moline's industrial era. The company brought hundreds of workers to the area and built homes for them near its factories. As more workers moved to East Moline for employment opportunities at John Deere & Company and other industries such as International Harvester (now Navistar), Swift & Company meatpacking plant, Allis-Chalmers Manufacturing Co., and others opened up shop as well. This rapid growth resulted in incorporation as a village on June 21st, 1907. During World War I, East Moline became an important center for munitions production due to its prominent position on transportation routes connecting Chicago with St Louis via railroad lines along both sides of river banks through what is known today as Arsenal Island; which served manufacturing needs during War Time efforts after being designated "Rock Island Arsenal" under US Army control since Civil War Period following Federal Government purchase from Dr William Arp Jr.. In addition to producing ammunition shells made here were used throughout war effort overseas too! By this time many immigrants had settled into East Moline seeking work: Italian stonecutters working quarries nearby created beautiful buildings which today form the heart of downtown East Moline, while Germans took up residence on the western side of town; and, a large number of African Americans migrated from the southern United States to work in factories. The 1920s brought growth and prosperity to East Moline as new industries continued to move in. The city's population nearly doubled during this time, reaching over 9,000 residents by 1930. However, like many other cities across America, East Moline was hit hard by the Great Depression. Many businesses closed down and people lost their jobs. In response to economic hardships during the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt created New Deal programs that provided employment opportunities for citizens across America. One such program was the Works Progress Administration (WPA), which funded public works projects including road construction and improvements in East Moline. During World War II, East Moline once again became an important center for war production as its manufacturing facilities produced everything from tractors and tanks to ammunition shells for the Allied forces. After World War II ended, John Deere & Company experienced significant growth due to increased demand for agricultural machinery around the world. As a result, they expanded their operations in East Moline significantly throughout the latter half of the 20th century. Today, John Deere remains one of East Moline's largest employers with over 8,500 employees at its headquarters located here. Other major industries include logistics companies such as FedEx Ground Distribution Center; healthcare providers like Genesis Medical Center - Illini Campus; educational institutions including Black Hawk College's Quad-Cities campus; transportation services through MetroLINK bus system connecting towns along Mississippi River banks too! In recent years there have been efforts made towards revitalizing historic downtown area into flourishing business district with local shops selling goods ranging from antiques / collectibles stores featuring locally made products reflecting diverse cultural heritage present since early days here... And recreational activities are plentiful too. The city has many parks, sports fields, and cultural events to offer its residents. East Moline's rich history as an industrial hub continues to shape the city today. Its diverse community and thriving economy make it a great place to live, work, and visit.

Crestliner, a well-known manufacturer of aluminum boats, has a rich history in East Moline, Illinois. The company was founded in 1946 by William Morser and Harry Sivertson with the goal of creating high-quality, durable fishing boats at an affordable price. Over the years, Crestliner has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the boating industry. The roots of Crestliner can be traced back to World War II when there was a shortage of steel due to its use in military production. This led to the development of aluminum as a viable alternative for boat building. William Morser had experience working with aluminum while serving in the Navy during the war and saw its potential for boat construction. After the war ended, he partnered with his friend Harry Sivertson to start their own business. East Moline was chosen as the location for Crestliner’s headquarters due to its proximity to both waterways and railroads – essential factors for transporting raw materials and finished products. The company started out small but quickly gained popularity among anglers who were looking for reliable yet affordable fishing boats. In 1953, Crestliner became part of Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which greatly expanded its capabilities and resources. This partnership allowed Crestliner to innovate even further with new designs such as deep-V hulls that provided better stability on rough waters. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Crestliner continued to grow and gain recognition within the boating industry. In 1968, they introduced their first fiberglass boat – an entirely new direction for a company known for their aluminum models. By this time, they had also expanded their product line beyond just fishing boats into other recreational vessels such as runabouts and cruisers. However, despite these successes, OMC faced financial troubles in the late 1980s which resulted in them filing for bankruptcy protection in 2000. During this time, Crestliner was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, a global leader in the marine industry. This acquisition provided new opportunities for Crestliner to continue its growth and innovation. In 2003, Crestliner celebrated its 50th anniversary with the launch of the Sportfish model – a boat specifically designed for competitive fishing tournaments. The following year, they introduced their first welded aluminum boats which provided superior strength and durability compared to riveted models. The company continued to expand its product line and technology in the following years. In 2012, they launched their SureMount Gunnel System which allowed for easy customization of accessories on their boats. This system has become a standard feature on all current Crestliner models. Today, East Moline remains an essential location for Crestliner’s operations. The company has built a modern manufacturing facility along with offices and showrooms that are open to customers. They have also invested in advanced technologies such as robotic welding machines that ensure precise construction and consistent quality across all their products. Crestliner continues to be a significant player in the boating industry with an extensive network of dealerships throughout North America and beyond. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship combined with innovative designs has made them one of the most trusted names in recreational boating. In conclusion, Crestliner’s history in East Moline is one filled with resilience, growth, and success despite facing challenges along the way. From humble beginnings as a small business producing affordable fishing boats to being part of major corporations like OMC and Brunswick Corporation, it is clear that creativity and determination have been key factors driving this brand forward over the past seven decades. Today, Crestliner stands strong as an iconic brand synonymous with quality craftsmanship and continuous innovation – making it a true American success story rooted firmly in East Moline's rich industrial heritage.

Crestliner is a well-known and respected brand in the boating industry. They have been manufacturing high-quality boats for over 75 years, making them one of the oldest boat manufacturers in the United States. Founded in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946 by two brothers, David and Peter Lamont, Crestliner has become synonymous with durability, craftsmanship, and innovation. Since its inception, Crestliner has stayed true to its roots as a family-owned business. The company's mission is to provide customers with exceptional experiences on the water through their commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design. This dedication to excellence has earned them a loyal customer base who swear by their boats' reliability and performance. One of Crestliner's key strengths lies in their ability to adapt to changing times while staying true to their core values. In the early days of production, they focused mainly on building aluminum fishing boats for commercial fishermen. However, as recreational boating gained popularity after World War II, they shifted their focus towards designing versatile leisure vessels that catered to families looking for adventure on the water. This shift proved successful as Crestliner quickly became known for producing some of the most durable and reliable recreational boats on the market. Their boats were built tough enough for rough waters but also comfortable enough for day trips with family and friends. Innovation has always been at the heart of Crestliner's success story. The company was one of the first boat manufacturers to use welded seams instead of rivets when constructing aluminum hulls. This technique not only made their boats stronger but also allowed them to offer lifetime warranties on all newly manufactured models - something unheard-of at that time. Another example of innovation from Crestliner is their patented Tru-V 17-degree deadrise hull design which provides superior stability and handling even in choppy waters. This technology revolutionized how other boat brands designed their hulls and set new standards for performance expectations within the industry. Crestliner has also been at the forefront of utilizing new materials and technology in their boats. In 1964, they introduced a line of fiberglass boats, which was a significant departure from their traditional aluminum construction. This move proved to be successful as it allowed them to expand their product range and cater to a wider audience. In recent years, Crestliner has continued to push boundaries with the use of advanced materials such as high-grade aluminum alloys and composite transoms in their boat designs. These innovations have not only made their boats stronger but have also reduced weight, making them more fuel-efficient and easier to handle. Aside from advancements in hull design and material usage, Crestliner has also incorporated modern features into its boats that enhance the boating experience for both fishermen and pleasure seekers alike. Features like livewells for storing baitfish or catch-and-release compartments for preserving fish while on board are just some examples of how Crestliner understands its customers' needs. Furthermore, Crestliner's commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident across all aspects of boat production - from designing through assembly. Every step is carefully monitored by skilled craftsmen who take pride in building each vessel by hand using top-of-the-line tools and equipment. The company's dedication to quality is further demonstrated through rigorous testing procedures that all boats must undergo before leaving the factory floor. This ensures that every customer receives a dependable boat built with exceptional attention to detail. Crestliner's success over the decades can be attributed not only to its innovative designs but also its strong dealer network spread throughout North America. The brand takes great care when selecting dealerships, ensuring they share the same values of excellence and customer satisfaction as Crestliner does. This focus on building long-term relationships with dealerships has resulted in loyal partners who are equally invested in promoting the brand's reputation for quality products. In conclusion, Crestliner continues to set itself apart from other boat manufacturers by staying true to its core values of innovation, quality craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction. With a rich history spanning 75 years, the brand has established itself as a leader in the boating industry and continues to push boundaries with new technologies and designs. Whether you're an avid fisherman or a recreational boater, Crestliner is a brand that you can trust to provide you with an exceptional on-water experience for many years to come.