Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, known for its high-quality products and innovative technology. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. However, it wasn't until the mid-1950s that Mercury Marine established one of its most important locations: East Moline, Illinois. The decision to set up operations in East Moline was strategic for Mercury Marine. At the time, there were already several manufacturers of marine engines located along the Mississippi River, making it an ideal location for competition and collaboration within the industry. Additionally, East Moline had a skilled labor force due to its history as an industrial hub with companies like John Deere and International Harvester being major employers in the area. In 1954, Mercury Marine purchased a vacant plant owned by International Harvester on Morton Drive in East Moline. This facility would become their first production site outside of Wisconsin. Initially starting with just over 100 employees, they began manufacturing two-stroke outboard motors ranging from six to forty horsepower. One notable factor that contributed to Mercury's success in East Moline was their ability to quickly adapt and innovate new technologies. In 1958, they introduced their first four-cylinder engine with electric start capabilities – a significant improvement compared to other competitors' engines at the time which required manual pull starts. As demand for their products increased throughout the 1960s and into the early 1970s,Mercury expanded its operations in East Moline even further. They built additional facilities on both sides of Morton Drive totaling over half a million square feet between them. However,the company faced some challenges during this period as well.In response to growing environmental concerns,the US government implemented stricter emission regulations.Mercury invested heavily into research and development,in order to create cleaner burning engines.Ultimately,this led them to develop superior four-stroke models that would become the standard for the industry. In 1983, Mercury Marine was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, a Fortune 500 company and one of the world's largest manufacturers of recreational products. This acquisition brought both financial stability and resources to continue expanding their operations in East Moline. As the demand for boats and marine engines continued to grow,Mercury expanded its presence in East Moline even further.In 1995,the company built an entirely new facility dedicated to research and development.This state-of-the-art facility allowed them to test and develop new products more efficiently than ever before.It also solidified Mercury's commitment to innovation and staying at the forefront of technology in the marine industry. Over time,Mercury Marine became not only a major employer,but also a significant contributor to economic growth in East Moline.Their presence attracted other businesses,and created additional job opportunities within the community.Mercury has been recognized multiple times as one of "The Best Companies To Work For" by Forbes magazine,and has received numerous awards for their environmental initiatives,such as being named "Manufacturer Of The Year" by American Business Awards. Today,the East Moline location remains a vital part of Mercury Marine's global operations.They continue to invest in innovative technologies,such as Joystick Piloting,a revolutionary steering system designed for effortless boat handling.They have also expanded into producing sterndrive engines,in addition to outboard motors.Their dedication towards continuous improvement has made them an industry leader with customers ranging from recreational boaters,to professional fishermen,to military organizations around the world. Through ups and downs over its history,Mercury Marine has remained committed to providing top-quality products while also supporting local communities.As stated on their website,"Our goal is clear:to be known throughout our industries as one who understands what it means when we say 'Made In America.'"Their impact on East Moline goes beyond just economic contributions;they have fostered strong relationships with residents through various sponsorship programs and community outreach initiatives. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's decision to establish operations in East Moline was a strategic move that has proven to be successful for both the company and the community. The location has played a significant role in their growth, innovation, and success over the years. With its strong foundation and continued dedication to excellence, it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will continue to thrive in East Moline for many more years to come.

Mercury Marine is one of the leading manufacturers of marine engines and propulsion systems in the world. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has been at the forefront of innovation and technology in the boating industry for over eight decades. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine employs over 6,000 people globally and has a presence in more than 100 countries. The company is part of Brunswick Corporation's marine division, which also includes other well-known brands such as Bayliner, Sea Ray, and Boston Whaler. From its humble beginnings as a small machine shop making outboard motors for commercial fishing boats, Mercury Marine has grown into a global powerhouse with an extensive product portfolio that caters to various segments of the boating market. Today, their products range from high-performance outboard engines to sophisticated propulsion systems for large yachts. One of Mercury Marine's key strengths lies in its continuous focus on research and development (R&D) to improve its products' performance and efficiency. This commitment to R&D has resulted in numerous technological breakthroughs over the years that have set them apart from their competitors. Innovation is deeply ingrained in Mercury Marine's culture; it drives every aspect of their business from design to manufacturing processes. They invest heavily in cutting-edge technologies like computer-aided design (CAD), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and virtual testing tools to develop new products faster while ensuring superior quality. An excellent example of this innovative approach is their Verado outboard engine series launched in 2004. It was unlike any other outboard engine on the market at that time, featuring supercharged four-stroke technology with electronic fuel injection capable enough to power large offshore boats without sacrificing speed or fuel efficiency. The Verado changed the game for high-performance boat owners who previously had limited options when it came to reliable power sources. Another notable achievement by Mercury Marine is the development of their Joystick Piloting System in 2007. This revolutionary system, which allows a boat to be maneuvered effortlessly with a joystick, was initially designed for large yachts but has now been adapted for smaller boats as well. The Joystick Piloting System makes docking and navigating tight spaces significantly easier, making boating more accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Mercury Marine also prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. They have implemented various initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste in their manufacturing processes. For example, they utilize recycled materials in the production of some components, use environmentally friendly packaging materials, and have reduced energy consumption through efficient lighting systems in their facilities. The company also ensures that all its products comply with strict emission standards set by regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Union's Recreational Craft Directive (RCD). In fact, Mercury Marine was one of the first marine engine manufacturers to receive EPA Clean Air Excellence Awards for consistently exceeding emissions standards. In addition to producing high-quality products, Mercury Marine is also committed to providing excellent customer service. They offer comprehensive training programs for dealerships worldwide to ensure that customers receive expert support when purchasing or servicing their engines. Furthermore, they have an extensive network of authorized service centers globally that uphold the same level of quality and expertise as Mercury Marine themselves. Moreover, Mercury Marine has always been actively involved in promoting recreational boating through partnerships with organizations such as Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.) and National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). These collaborations aim at expanding boating opportunities while raising awareness about responsible boating practices among enthusiasts. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded into new markets beyond traditional powerboats by developing innovative propulsion solutions for electric boats or e-boats. This move demonstrates the company's continuous efforts towards sustainable technology while staying ahead of industry trends. Despite facing stiff competition from other major players in the marine engine market, Mercury Marine continues to thrive and maintain its position as an industry leader. The company's relentless pursuit of innovation, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to providing top-notch customer service has earned them a loyal following among boating enthusiasts worldwide. In conclusion, Mercury Marine is much more than just a manufacturer of marine engines; it is a symbol of excellence and innovation in the boating industry. With its rich history, cutting-edge technology, and unwavering focus on customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility, Mercury Marine will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of recreational boating for years to come.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has a rich history in East Moline, Illinois. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer as Kiekhaefer Corporation and initially focused on producing outboard motors for the marine industry. In 1946, Kiekhaefer Corporation purchased an old factory building located at 2901 7th Street in East Moline to expand their production capabilities. This location would become Mercury Marine's first manufacturing facility and remains the oldest continuously operating Mercury plant today. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury Marine continued to grow and innovate in East Moline. They introduced new product lines such as stern drives (inboard/outboard engines) and expanded their outboard motor offerings with larger horsepower options. In the late 1960s, Mercury Marine faced financial difficulties due to increased competition from Japanese manufacturers. In response, they restructured their operations and moved some of their production facilities from Wisconsin to East Moline in order to take advantage of lower labor costs. The move proved successful as Mercury Marine regained its position as a leader in the marine industry. In the early 1970s, they built a new state-of-the-art engineering center adjacent to their existing manufacturing facility in East Moline. This center housed testing labs, design studios, administrative offices, and even an employee cafeteria. During this time period, advancements were made not only in production processes but also in technology used for designing and testing products. For example, the introduction of computer-aided design (CAD) allowed for more precise development of engine components resulting in higher quality products. In addition to technological advancements within the company itself, Mercury Marine also became heavily involved with local communities during this time period. They sponsored various community events including fishing tournaments and boat shows while also providing support for local schools through donations towards science education programs. The 1980s brought continued growth and expansion for Mercury Marine in East Moline. In 1983, they opened a new casting foundry on the same property as their manufacturing facility. This allowed them to produce more of their own parts in-house, resulting in increased efficiency and cost savings. In 1996, Mercury Marine consolidated several of its operations into one large facility located at 2907 Northwoods Drive in East Moline. This modernized plant included an advanced testing center and production lines capable of producing multiple engine models simultaneously. Today, Mercury Marine remains a major employer in the Quad Cities area with over 2,500 employees working at their East Moline location. The company continues to invest in cutting-edge technology and processes to maintain its position as a leader in the marine industry. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded beyond traditional outboard motors by introducing new products such as high-performance engines for racing boats and propulsion systems for yachts. Overall, the history of Mercury Marine's operations in East Moline showcases both innovation within the company itself and strong community involvement. Their presence has had a significant impact on the local economy and continues to be an important part of the Quad Cities community today.

East Moline is a city located in Rock Island County, Illinois. It is situated along the Mississippi River and has a population of approximately 21,000 people. The city was originally known as Watertown due to its location near several creeks and waterways. However, it was later renamed East Moline in order to avoid confusion with another town of the same name. The history of East Moline dates back to the early 19th century when settlers began arriving from Europe and other parts of the United States. The area was initially used for farming and agriculture, but with the construction of railroads in the mid-1800s, industries such as milling and manufacturing began to develop. By the turn of the century, East Moline had become an important industrial center with factories producing everything from plows to automobiles. One notable event that helped shape East Moline's history was World War I. During this time, many young men from East Moline were drafted into military service or volunteered to fight for their country. This resulted in a decline in industry as workers left their jobs to serve overseas. However, after the war ended, there was a surge in demand for products needed for post-war reconstruction which led to economic growth. In addition to its role during WWI, East Moline also played an important part during WWII by producing tanks at its arsenal plant located on Arsenal Island just across from downtown East Moline. After WWII ended though, much like other cities around America at that time; many businesses closed down or moved elsewhere leading once again towards economic depression. However despite these challenges over time; today’s residents can look forward knowing that they’re living within one best places US citizens could call home – according CNBC’s annual "Best Places To Live" report released October 2019 - where new businesses continue move here even now! Today's economy is supported primarily by manufacturing companies such as John Deere Harvester Works and Case New Holland, as well as service-based industries including healthcare, education, and retail. The presence of these companies has not only provided job opportunities for residents but also contributed to the growth and development of the city. One notable landmark in East Moline is the Quad City International Airport located on its western border. This airport serves not only East Moline but also the surrounding cities of Davenport, Bettendorf, Rock Island (all part of Illinois) along with Moline (a sister city found directly across Mississippi River), together making a metropolitan area collectively known as "Quad Cities". The airport offers domestic flights to major hubs such as Chicago and Atlanta, making it a convenient transportation option for residents and visitors alike. East Moline also boasts several recreational areas for its residents to enjoy. These include parks with playgrounds, picnic areas, sports fields, walking trails,and even an aquatic center. One popular destination is Butterworth Park which features a scenic riverfront view along with various events held throughout the year such as concerts and festivals. The city's commitment to providing quality education can be seen through its public school system consisting of four elementary schools, one middle school,and one high school - all under Silvis School District 34 – or nearby United Township High School that shares many extracurricular activities & sports programs offered by neighboring Townships too! For higher education options; Black Hawk College’s main campus lies just few miles away in another sister city called "Molina", while Augustana College is situated just across from downtown Rock Island via Centennial Bridge! Despite being a relatively small city compared to others in Illinois like Chicago or Springfield; East Moline still holds significant cultural diversity due historical immigration patterns among earlier settlers who came here seeking new beginnings which eventually created diverse communities within their neighborhoods over time!. Today this diversity can be seen through different cuisines offered at local restaurants ranging from Chinese food at Hunan Restaurant to traditional Mexican dishes at La Rancherita. In conclusion, East Moline is a vibrant and growing city with a rich history and diverse community. Its strategic location along the Mississippi River has played a crucial role in its development as an industrial center, while also providing residents with access to various recreational activities. With a strong focus on education and economic growth, this city continues to thrive and attract new businesses and residents each year.

Mercury Marine is a company that has been at the forefront of marine technology for over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine began as a small operation with only five employees producing outboard motors in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Today, it has grown into a global leader in the boating industry and is known for its innovative products and commitment to quality. In this paper, we will explore the history of Mercury Marine from its humble beginnings to its current position as one of the most recognized brands in the boating world. We will also delve into some key moments and milestones that have shaped the company's success over the years. Early Years (1939-1950s) Carl Kiekhaefer was an engineer who had previously worked for Evinrude Motors but left due to disagreements with management. He decided to start his own business making outboard motors and purchased bankrupt manufacturer Thorwaldson Motor Company, renaming it “Kiekhaefer Corporation.” The first batch of engines produced were marked "Thor" as they still used parts from that company. Initially, Kiekhaefer’s plan was not just to produce high-quality outboard motors but also other products such as generators and chainsaws. However, after encountering financial difficulties during World War II when metal shortages made production difficult, he focused solely on developing superior boat engines instead. One aspect that set Mercury apart from competitors right from inception was their attention to detail – each engine would go through extensive testing before leaving the factory floor. This dedication paid off when their first mass-produced product - Mark 75 Super Hurricane (a two-cylinder inline engine) won many speedboat races around Lake Michigan leading up to Thunderbolt IV breaking multiple speed records at Miami-Nassau race earning them widespread recognition within marine circles. Expansion & Growth (1960s-1980s) In 1961 Carl Kiekhaefer sold the company to Brunswick Corporation, a leader in marine, fitness and billiards industries. Under this new ownership, Mercury Marine expanded its product line by acquiring other boat manufacturers such as Boston Whaler and Sea Ray Boats. The 1960s also saw the introduction of sterndrive engines which allowed for more powerful boats with improved performance. Innovations continued throughout the following decades – in 1976 they introduced their first four-stroke outboard engine and in 1985 launched MerCruiser Bravo One drive which could be used on larger boats with high-horsepower engines. One of the most significant events during this period was when Mercury Marine became an official sponsor of American Power Boat Association’s (APBA) National Outboard Championships in Detroit - a popular event featuring some of America's best speedboat racers. This partnership led to increased publicity and further cemented Mercury’s reputation as leaders in marine technology. Global Expansion & Modernization (1990s-2000s) The late 1990s marked another turning point for Mercury Marine when it opened its first manufacturing plant outside of North America – a facility located near Sydney, Australia. This expansion gave them access to international markets and enabled them to better cater to customers worldwide. During this time, there were major advancements in computerized design tools allowing engineers at Mercury Marine to develop even more innovative products such as Verado FourStroke outboards that provided superior power while remaining environmentally friendly due to reduced emissions. Mercury also invested heavily into research and development resulting in improvements such as Bravo Three drives for larger cruisers that featured dual counter-rotating propellers providing better handling at low speeds. In addition, they began using electronic fuel injection technology making their engines more efficient than ever before. Recent Developments (2010-Present) In recent years, Mercury has focused on sustainability initiatives by developing greener technologies like Active Trim which automatically adjusts engine trim for optimal fuel efficiency. They also introduced an electric outboard motor called “Electric Outboard” that provides users with a cleaner and quieter boating experience. In 2014, Mercury Marine celebrated its 75th anniversary with over $2 billion in sales, cementing their position as the leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems. In the same year, they acquired Attwood Corporation – a leader in boat parts and accessories - expanding their product line even further. Today, Mercury Marine continues to push boundaries by investing in advanced technologies such as joystick piloting systems that make steering and maneuvering boats easier than ever before. They have also expanded into new markets including jet propulsion engines for personal watercrafts. Conclusion Mercury Marine's journey from a small operation producing five outboard motors per day to becoming one of the most recognizable names in the boating industry is truly remarkable. Their commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability has led them to become market leaders not only in North America but globally as well. From their early days of winning races on Lake Michigan to sponsoring national championships and expanding into international markets, Mercury Marine has consistently set high standards for themselves and revolutionized the boating industry along the way. With continuous advancements in technology and a strong focus on customer satisfaction, it is clear that this company will continue to thrive for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is an American company that specializes in the production of marine engines and propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, a young engineer who had a passion for building high-performance engines. Kiekhaefer started the company with just $2,500 and operated it out of a small shed in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. He initially named the company "Kiekhaefer Corporation" but changed it to Mercury Marine in 1940 after his first successful product - a new two-cylinder outboard motor that he called the "Mercury." The success of this first product led to rapid growth for Mercury Marine. In 1946, they introduced their first four-cylinder engine, which became popular among commercial fishermen and racing enthusiasts. By the mid-1950s, Mercury had become one of the leading manufacturers of outboard motors in America. In addition to outboard motors, Mercury also began producing sterndrive units (inboard/outboard motors) in 1961 after acquiring another marine engine manufacturer called MerCruiser. This move solidified their position as a major player in the boating industry. Throughout its history, Mercury Marine has been known for innovation and pushing boundaries. In 1965, they introduced their famous “Tower of Power” inline six-cylinder engine that produced up to 200 horsepower - more than any other competitor at the time. This engine revolutionized powerboat racing and cemented Mercury's reputation as an industry leader. In subsequent years, Mercury continued to develop new technologies such as electronic fuel injection (1993), supercharged Verado engines (2004), joystick piloting systems (2012), and most recently V12 engines capable of producing over 600 horsepower (2021). Today, Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and employs over 7,000 people worldwide. They have manufacturing facilities in the United States, Europe, and Asia, and their products are sold in over 120 countries. In addition to marine engines, Mercury also produces a wide range of boating accessories such as propellers, controls, gauges, and inflatable boats. They have also expanded into the power sports market with their acquisition of MotorGuide (a manufacturer of trolling motors) in 2008. Mercury Marine has a rich history in competitive racing as well. Their engines have powered numerous champions across various types of boat racing including offshore powerboat racing, drag boat racing, and hydroplane racing. They continue to be actively involved in supporting professional racers and sponsoring events around the world. In recent years, Mercury Marine has also focused on sustainability efforts by investing in alternative fuel technologies and implementing eco-friendly practices within their manufacturing processes. As they approach their 80th anniversary in 2019, Mercury Marine remains at the forefront of innovation and continues to provide high-quality products for recreational boaters as well as commercial applications. With a strong legacy behind them and a commitment to continued growth and development,Mercury is poised for an exciting future ahead.

East Moline, Illinois is a small city located in Rock Island County in the state of Illinois. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Mississippi River and has a population of approximately 21,000 people. The city was incorporated in 1907 and has since then played an important role in the economic and cultural development of this region. The history of East Moline can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was inhabited by Native American tribes such as Sauk and Fox. The area was known for its fertile land and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal location for hunting and farming activities. In the mid-1800s, European settlers began arriving in this area, attracted by its potential for agriculture. One notable settler was William Butterworth who established a successful farm here in 1835. He is considered one of the founding fathers of East Moline. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century brought significant growth to East Moline. In 1872, John Deere & Company decided to build their headquarters here due to its strategic location near major transportation routes including railroads and waterways. This decision had a profound impact on shaping East Moline's economy as John Deere became one of the largest employers in the area. By early 20th century, East Moline had become a thriving industrial hub with several manufacturing companies setting up operations here including International Harvester Co., Case IH Tractor Plant, Sears Manufacturing Company among others. These industries provided job opportunities for many residents which led to rapid population growth. During World War II, East Moline played a significant role as it served as an important supplier for war materials such as tractors and other heavy equipment needed by allied forces. After the war ended, these industries continued to expand driving further economic growth. In addition to its industrial success, East Moline also had a vibrant community that contributed greatly to its cultural development. The city was home to several churches, schools, and community organizations that brought people together and fostered a sense of belonging. However, like many industrial cities in the United States, East Moline also faced challenges such as economic downturns and declining population in the latter half of the 20th century. In response to these challenges, the city government took measures to diversify its economy by attracting new businesses and investing in infrastructure improvements. Today, East Moline continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes not only manufacturing but also service industries such as healthcare, education, and retail. The city is also known for its rich cultural heritage which is celebrated through various events such as Heritage Days Festival and John Deere Classic Golf Tournament. One of the most notable landmarks in East Moline is The Bend Bridge which connects Illinois with Iowa over Mississippi River. This bridge played an important role during World War II when it served as a major transportation route for military supplies. In recent years, there have been efforts made by local organizations and residents to preserve East Moline's history through historical societies and museums. These efforts ensure that future generations can learn about the city's past and appreciate its contributions towards shaping this region. In conclusion, East Moline has come a long way since its early days as a small settlement along Mississippi River. From being an agricultural town to becoming an industrial powerhouse, this city has shown resilience in adapting to changing times while maintaining its strong sense of community. As it continues on this path of growth and development into the future years ahead, one thing remains certain –East Moline will always hold onto its rich history that makes it truly unique among other cities in Illinois.

East Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County, on the western border of the state. It was established as a village in 1903 and officially became a city in 1907. The area where East Moline is now located was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Fox tribes led by Chief Black Hawk. In the early 1800s, European settlers began to move into the region and establish farms along the banks of the Mississippi River. In 1832, during what came to be known as The Black Hawk War, Chief Black Hawk led his tribe back to their homeland in Illinois after being forced out by white settlers. This conflict resulted in many casualties on both sides and ultimately led to further settlement of Europeans in this area. By the late 19th century, East Moline had become an important industrial hub due to its location along major transportation routes such as railroads and waterways. The John Deere Harvester Works factory was established here in 1915 and quickly became one of the largest employers in the region. During World War I, East Moline played a significant role in producing supplies for military use. Many factories were converted for war production and over 1 million shells were produced at these facilities. In addition to its industrial growth, East Moline also saw an increase in population during this time period due to immigration from Europe. Immigrants from countries such as Sweden, Germany, Italy, Ireland,and Poland settled here seeking employment opportunities at local factories. Throughout much of its history, East Moline has been closely connected with nearby cities like Rock IslandandMoline through economic ties and shared resources such as schools and utilities. In recent years,the three cities have worked together on joint projects aimed at revitalizing downtown areas,reducing crime rates,and improving infrastructure. Today,East Moline continues to be an important center for industry with companies like John Deere and Case New Holland still maintaining a presence in the city. The population has remained relatively stable over the years, with around 21,000 residents currently living in East Moline. The city also boasts several parks and recreational areas for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating,and hiking. Some notable attractions includeThe Rock Island County Fairgrounds, which hosts an annual fair each summer,and The Quad City Botanical Center,a beautiful garden oasis that features various plant collections and educational programs. East Moline's history is deeply intertwined with industrialization and immigration,making it a unique representation of American progress throughout the 19thand20th centuries. Today,the city continues to evolve while preserving its rich heritage through community events and historical landmarks like the John Deere Pavilion Museum.

Located along the banks of the Mississippi River in East Moline, Illinois, Mercury Marine has a rich history deeply rooted in the community. The company was founded over 80 years ago by Carl Kiekhaefer and has since grown into one of the leading manufacturers of marine propulsion systems in the world. The story of Mercury Marine's presence in East Moline began in 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a small bankrupt engine manufacturer called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company located in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. At that time, Kiekhaefer had no experience or knowledge about manufacturing boat engines but he saw potential and opportunity. He renamed the company to Mercury Outboard Motors with ambitious plans to revolutionize the marine industry. In its early years, Mercury Outboard Motors faced financial struggles due to stiff competition from established brands such as Evinrude and Johnson Motor Company. However, Kiekaefer's determination and innovative ideas helped propel his company forward. One of his first major accomplishments was creating an outboard motor with more horsepower than any other brand on the market at that time. By 1941, just two years after its inception, Mercury Outboard Motors had already outgrown its original location and needed a larger facility to accommodate production demands. This led to the opening of their first factory outside Wisconsin - a small plant on South Seventh Street in East Moline. The move to East Moline proved beneficial for both Mercury Marine and the local community. The city offered access to skilled laborers from nearby Quad Cities area who were familiar with metalworking industries such as John Deere & Co., Caterpillar Tractor Co., International Harvester Co., among others. Additionally, being situated near major waterways like Mississippi River provided easy transportation for shipping their products across North America. Over next few decades, demand for recreational boating increased significantly which translated into continuous growth for Mercury Marine too. Their dedicated workforce, innovative products and strong customer service helped them establish a reputation as a reliable brand in the marine industry. In 1960, Mercury Marine expanded its East Moline facility by adding an engineering building to support their growing research and development efforts. This expansion marked the beginning of continued investments into the plant that would eventually make it one of the largest engine manufacturing facilities in North America. Throughout the years, Mercury Marine has seen many changes including acquisitions, partnerships, new product lines and expansions. In 1961, Kiekhaefer sold his company to Brunswick Corporation marking a new chapter for Mercury Marine. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury continued to expand its portfolio with acquisitions such as MerCruiser (inboard engines) and Mariner Outboards. The 1980s were a particularly significant period for both East Moline community and Mercury Marine. The company invested over $100 million dollars into expanding their production capabilities at their main plant on South Seventh Street - creating hundreds of jobs locally. They also acquired two additional properties - former John Deere Harvester Works property located north along riverfront which was later developed into Plant #2; followed by acquisition of River Drive Industrial Park across Mississippi River in Davenport Iowa where they established Plant #3 operations. Over time, modernization efforts have transformed these facilities making them leaner and more efficient while retaining skilled workforce from Quad Cities area who take pride in producing high-quality engines used in recreational boating worldwide. Mercury Marine's commitment towards innovation is evident through multiple advancements made during last three decades including introduction of four-stroke outboard motors , direct fuel injection technology , electronic fuel injection systems among others . These technological improvements have not only improved engine performance but also reduced emissions thereby making recreational boating more environmentally friendly . Today , there are close to 2000 employees working at various plants owned by Mercury Marine around Quad Cities region . Apart from being major employer locally , company actively contributes to community through various programs . For instance , Mercury Marine has been awarded for their efforts towards preserving riverfront in East Moline and Davenport. They have also donated funds to local schools, charities and organized volunteer activities for employees. In conclusion, the history of Mercury Marine's presence in East Moline is a testament to the company's resilience, innovation and commitment towards providing high-quality marine propulsion systems. From humble beginnings as a small engine manufacturer to becoming an industry leader, Mercury Marine has played an integral role in shaping the economy and community of Quad Cities region. With continued investments into research and development, expansion of product lines and dedication towards sustainability initiatives, it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will continue making waves in the marine industry for years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard engines, sterndrive and inboard engines, propellers, and parts for recreational boating. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Wisconsin, United States, the company has established itself as a pioneer in marine propulsion technology and has been setting industry standards for over 80 years. The Early Years In the early days of Mercury Marine, founder Carl Kiekhaefer started with a simple goal – to build the best-performing marine engine on the market. He believed that innovation was key to achieving this goal and invested heavily in research and development. As a result, Mercury quickly gained recognition for its high-quality performance products. Kiekhaefer's first success came with his "Lightning" outboard engine which set numerous speed records during competitive events. This propelled Mercury onto the world stage as one of the top manufacturers of performance marine engines. Expansion and Growth Over the next few decades, Mercury expanded its product line to include sterndrive engines (also known as "inboards"), propellers, controls systems, inflatable boats and accessories such as gauges and steering wheels. The company's commitment to innovation continued through partnerships with other manufacturers like Ford Motor Company who helped develop their popular MerCruiser sterndrive engine. By introducing new technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems and direct-injection two-stroke engines into their product lineup throughout the 1990s-2000s era; they became even more prominent within both recreational boating circles around North America but also globally too since selling outside just USA/Canada markets from mid-late '90s onward - expanding into Europe/Australia/New Zealand/Japan etc., where demand grew rapidly especially upon introduction of Verado FourStroke models post-year-2004...and onwards now still continuing today! Today's Technology One notable technological advancement at Mercury Marine is the introduction of their Verado outboard engine series in 2004. This revolutionary line of engines features supercharged four-stroke technology, providing boaters with smoother, quieter, and more powerful performance than ever before. The Verado line has been continually evolving and expanding to meet the demands of today's boating enthusiasts. In addition to their outboard engines, Mercury Marine also offers a full range of sterndrive and inboard engines for various types of boats including cruisers, sport fishing boats, pontoons, and watersports vessels. These high-performance engines are designed to provide exceptional power while maintaining fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility. Mercury Marine has also made significant strides in sustainability by investing in green initiatives such as reducing waste at manufacturing facilities and developing more efficient engine designs that consume less fuel. They have also introduced new technologies like Active Trim which automatically adjusts boat trim levels for optimal performance depending on the conditions – resulting in better fuel economy. Partnerships & Recognition Over the years, Mercury Marine has established several partnerships with other industry leaders including Brunswick Corporation (their parent company), Sea Ray Boats, Boston Whaler, Scout Boats among others. Through these partnerships they have collaborated on innovative products such as joystick piloting systems which make docking easier for boaters. Their commitment to quality has earned them numerous awards over the years including recognition from JD Power for having top-ranked customer satisfaction among marine manufacturers multiple times since 2006. Community Involvement Apart from being an industry leader in innovation and technology advancement; Mercury Marine is committed to giving back to its community through various philanthropic efforts. Their partnership with "The Great Lakes" organization helps promote clean waterways by removing trash from lakes across North America where many Mercury employees volunteer their time each year towards this cause. In addition to this initiative; they have partnered up with local schools offering internship opportunities within engineering departments along side sponsoring different student programs supporting STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math) education and hands-on boat building projects too. Conclusion In conclusion, Mercury Marine has been a pioneer in the marine industry for over 80 years. Their commitment to innovation and quality has set them apart from competitors and secured their position as a leader in marine propulsion technology. With a diverse product line catering to various types of boating enthusiasts and an ongoing focus on sustainability and community involvement; it is clear that Mercury Marine will continue to thrive as one of the top manufacturers in the recreational boating industry for many more years to come.