Crest Pontoons, one of the leading manufacturers of pontoon boats in the United States, has a rich history that dates back to its humble beginnings in Elgin, Illinois. Founded in 1957 by Charles Hepler and Willis Vivian as Crest Marine Supply Company, this family-owned business has grown from a small operation to a highly successful company with a global presence. The story of Crest Pontoons begins with two brothers-in-law who shared a passion for boating. They started out by selling marine supplies and accessories at their store located on Grove Avenue in Elgin. However, they soon realized that there was an opportunity for growth in the manufacturing industry and decided to expand their operations. In 1962, Crest Marine Supply Company ventured into boat manufacturing with their first line of aluminum pontoons. These were basic models designed for fishing and leisure activities on lakes and rivers. The initial success of these boats encouraged Hepler and Vivian to continue innovating new designs that catered to different customer needs. In the late 1960s, Crest Marine introduced fiberglass hulls which proved to be more durable than aluminum ones. This marked a significant milestone for the company as it opened up new market opportunities for them. With increasing demand for their products, they acquired additional space next door to expand their production facilities. As Crest Pontoons continued to grow over the years, so did its reputation as one of the top manufacturers in its industry. In 1971, they moved into a larger facility on Weld Road where they could produce more boats at an increased pace without compromising quality. By now, Charles Hepler’s sons had joined the business and brought fresh ideas that further propelled growth within the company. In 1985, after much research and development efforts led by his son Randy Hepler; Crest Pontoons launched its signature “Wave Cutter” design which revolutionized how pontoon boats handled rough waters. The unique design, with its wider center tube and deeper side walls, made Crest boats more stable and efficient on the water. The 1990s saw a surge in the popularity of pontoon boats as people began to realize their versatility for various recreational activities. This led to an increase in demand for Crest Pontoons’ products, prompting them to expand their production facilities yet again. In 2001, Crest Marine Supply Company officially changed its name to Crest Pontoons Inc., reflecting its primary focus on manufacturing high-quality pontoons. With over five decades of experience under their belt, they have perfected their craft and become one of the most sought-after brands in the boating industry. Today, Crest Pontoons is a global brand with dealerships across North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Their state-of-the-art facility in Elgin spans over 300,000 square feet and employs hundreds of skilled workers who are dedicated to producing top-notch boats using advanced technology. Crest’s reputation for excellence has been recognized by numerous awards including “Manufacturer Excellence Award” from NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) six years consecutively since 2014; “Top Products Awards” by Boating Industry Magazine four times since 2013; “Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Award” seven times consecutively between 2013-2020 among others. Apart from manufacturing exceptional pontoon boats that cater to different needs such as fishing or leisure cruising; Crest also offers custom-built options allowing customers to personalize their vessels according to specific preferences. They continue to innovate new designs such as foldable hardtops which provide shade while still allowing easy access through overhead clearance when not needed. In addition to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service; giving back has always been at the core of Crest Pontoons’ values. They support numerous charities including those focused on helping children with disabilities enjoy boating activities, and environmental conservation initiatives. In conclusion, the story of Crest Pontoons is a testament to how dedication, hard work, and passion for excellence can turn a small operation into a global leader in its industry. With over six decades of history behind them and an unwavering commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction; it’s safe to say that Crest Pontoons will continue making waves in the boating world for many years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a well-known and highly respected brand in the world of pontoon boats. With over 60 years of experience, Crest has established itself as a leader in the industry, providing high-quality and innovative pontoons to customers all around the globe. The history of Crest Pontoons dates back to 1957 when it was founded by David Haueter Sr. The company started out small, with only three employees working out of a small shop in Owosso, Michigan. However, with their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction, Crest quickly gained popularity among boating enthusiasts. One of the key aspects that sets Crest apart from other pontoon manufacturers is its commitment to using cutting-edge technology and materials. From their signature welded aluminum hulls to their use of advanced CAD software for design, every aspect of production at Crest is focused on creating top-of-the-line pontoons. Crest offers an extensive range of models that cater to different needs and preferences. Their line-up includes luxury pontoons such as the Savannah series which features premium amenities like plush seating options, entertainment systems, and even built-in grills for ultimate relaxation on the water. On the other end of the spectrum are affordable yet durable models like Classic LX or Caribbean where functionality takes precedence over luxury. One notable feature that sets Crest apart from its competitors is their patented "Pultrusion" process used in manufacturing their structural components. This technique ensures superior strength while also reducing weight compared to traditional methods – making them more fuel-efficient without compromising on durability. Another area where Crest excels is customization options. Customers can choose from various floor plans ranging from fishing-centric layouts equipped with live wells and rod holders to family-friendly configurations designed for watersports activities like skiing or tubing. In recent years, environmental sustainability has become increasingly important in all industries – including boating. In response to this growing concern, Crest introduced Eco-Raptm, an eco-friendly line of pontoons that are built using renewable and recyclable materials. These pontoons have a carbon footprint that is 35% lower than traditional boats, making them a responsible choice for boating enthusiasts. Crest Pontoons also takes pride in its exceptional customer service. From the initial consultation to after-sales support, their team of experienced professionals ensures that every customer has a personalized experience and receives expert guidance at every step. In addition to producing top-quality pontoons, Crest is also actively involved in giving back to the community through various initiatives. They support organizations like the American Cancer Society and Wounded Warriors Project by donating pontoon boats for fundraising events and helping raise awareness for these causes. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons stands out as a brand that continually strives for excellence in all aspects – from design and technology to customer satisfaction and community involvement. With their unwavering commitment to innovation and dedication towards providing customers with the best possible boating experience, it's no wonder why they hold such a prominent position in the market today. Whether you're looking for luxury or affordability, performance or sustainability – Crest Pontoons has something for everyone.

Crest Pontoons has a rich history in Elgin, Illinois that dates back to 1957. The company was originally founded by William J. Creal Jr., who started manufacturing pontoon boats under the name Crest Marine in an old dairy barn on the outskirts of Elgin. At the time, pontoons were relatively unknown and only used for commercial purposes such as ferrying people and goods across bodies of water. However, Creal saw potential in these flat-bottomed vessels and decided to make them more recreational-friendly. In its early years, Crest Marine focused on building high-quality pontoons with durable aluminum frames and comfortable seating options. The company quickly gained a reputation for its superior craftsmanship and innovative designs. As demand for their products grew, Crest Marine expanded its operations to a larger facility in downtown Elgin in 1965. This allowed them to increase production and offer new models with features like sun decks, canopies, and built-in coolers. In the late 1960s, Crest Marine changed hands when it was acquired by John Tetzlaff Sr., who had been working at the company since 1961. Under his leadership, Crest continued to thrive as one of the leading pontoon manufacturers in the Midwest. Throughout the next few decades, Crest Pontoons continued to innovate and expand its product line while remaining headquartered in Elgin. In 1987, they introduced their first fiberglass deck boat model called "The Wave." This marked a significant shift towards offering more diverse options for customers looking for different types of boats. In 2008, after over five decades of operation under Tetzlaff's ownership or management tenure (he retired from day-to-day operations but remained chairman), he sold Crest Pontoons to Canadian-based Brunswick Corporation – which also owns Mercury Outboard Motors – further solidifying their position as an industry leader. Today,Crest Pontoons continues to operate out of its Elgin facility, employing over 200 people and producing a full line of high-quality pontoons with innovative features such as fold-down swim platforms, adjustable seating, and Bluetooth sound systems. The company also remains committed to sustainability by using eco-friendly materials in their production process. Crest Pontoons has come a long way since its humble beginnings in an old dairy barn. With its strong roots in Elgin, the company continues to thrive and provide top-of-the-line pontoon boats for customers around the world. They are proud to be a part of the vibrant boating community in Illinois and look forward to many more years of success and innovation.

Elgin, Illinois is a bustling city located in the northern part of the state. With a population of over 100,000 people, it is the eighth-largest city in Illinois and continues to grow each year. The history of Elgin dates back to the 1830s when European settlers first arrived and established a small community along the Fox River. Since then, Elgin has evolved into a thriving hub for commerce, culture, and education. One of the most notable features of Elgin is its beautiful architecture. The city boasts an impressive collection of historic buildings dating back to the late 19th century. These include Victorian-style homes, Gothic churches, and commercial buildings with intricate designs that showcase various architectural styles from different eras. One famous example is The Old Main building on the campus of Elgin Academy which was built in 1856 and still serves as one of the oldest educational institutions in Illinois. In addition to its rich architectural heritage, Elgin also has a diverse cultural scene. The Hemmens Cultural Center hosts numerous events throughout the year including concerts, theatrical performances, art exhibits, and more. Another popular attraction is The Grand Victoria Casino which offers gaming options as well as dining and entertainment experiences. Education plays a significant role in shaping Elgin's vibrant community. Home to two public school districts (School District U-46 and School District 300), students have access to quality education at all levels from kindergarten through high school graduation. For those seeking higher education opportunities close by without having to commute long distances or relocate altogether can take advantage of Judson University -a private Christian institution located within city limits- or nearby Northern Illinois University (NIU) branch campuses such as NIU Hoffman Estates Education Center or NIU Naperville Campus offering graduate level programs such as MBA degrees among others. The workforce in Elgin benefits from its strategic location near major highways connecting Chicago -just under an hour away- Milwaukee, and other neighboring cities. The city is also home to a diverse mix of employers in various industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, education, and retail. Some of the top employers include Advocate Sherman Hospital, School District U-46, Comcast Cable Communications Inc., Elgin Community College and Walmart Supercenter. Elgin's economy has experienced steady growth over the years due to its favorable business climate. The city offers incentives for businesses looking to relocate or expand within its boundaries through programs like Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts and enterprise zones that provide tax breaks and financial assistance. In addition to its economic development efforts, Elgin is committed to preserving its natural environment. With several parks scattered throughout the city offering amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, trails for biking and walking enthusiasts along with recreational activities such as fishing ponds even an aquatic center -the Lords Park Family Aquatic Center-, residents can enjoy outdoor spaces while promoting conservation practices that preserve local ecosystems. The city government also prioritizes sustainability initiatives by encouraging recycling programs which have resulted in significant waste reduction rates over time. Furthermore, Elgin recently joined the Sierra Club's Ready For 100 campaign committing itself towards transitioning into renewable energy sources -such as solar power- in order to reduce carbon emissions by 2030 having already achieved notable results on increasing clean energy usage since passing their Sustainability Action Plan back in 2011. Despite being a bustling metropolis today; it hasn't always been smooth sailing for Elgin. Like many American cities around this age range from mid-to-late 19th Century when industrialization was booming thanks partly due railroads crossing countrywide linking east-west settlements together spurring land speculation; multiple social-economic challenges hit hard during early decades until late Great Depression had somewhat subsided where eventually things started improving again post-WWII era throughout second half XX century experiencing remarkable transformations ever since reinventing itself becoming what we know now an attractive hub combining urban amenities with suburban lifestyles. Elgin is also home to a diverse and welcoming community. With over 40% of its population being minorities, the city celebrates cultural diversity through events such as the annual International Festival. The city also has a strong sense of community engagement with numerous volunteer opportunities for residents to give back and make a positive impact in their neighborhoods. In recent years, Elgin has received recognition for its livability and quality of life. In 2018, Niche.com ranked it as one of the best places to live in Illinois based on factors such as cost of living, education, and safety. It was also named one of the top ten most affordable cities in America by Livability.com in 2016. In conclusion, Elgin is a dynamic city that offers something for everyone – from its rich history and architecture to its thriving economy and diverse culture. Whether you are looking for educational opportunities or seeking employment options, Elgin has much to offer. With future plans focused on sustainable growth while maintaining its unique character, this charming Illinois town will continue to be an attractive place for people to live, work, and visit for years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoon boats that are known for their durability, comfort, and performance. Founded in the early 1950s by David Hawn, Crest has grown to become one of the most recognized names in the boating industry. With over six decades of experience, Crest has built a strong reputation for producing innovative and reliable pontoons that cater to the needs of both recreational and commercial boaters. The history of Crest Pontoons dates back to 1957 when David Hawn began building aluminum boats under the name “Hawn Manufacturing Company” in Owosso, Michigan. At that time, pontoon boats were not as popular as they are today. However, with his passion for boating and innovation, Hawn saw an opportunity to revolutionize this market segment by creating stronger and more efficient pontoons. In 1958, Hawn introduced his first aluminum pontoon boat called “the Cruiser”. This boat was designed with features such as a wide deck space and comfortable seating to provide a smooth ride on water while also accommodating larger groups. The success of this model led him to develop other models such as “the Fisherman”, which was specifically designed for fishing enthusiasts. As demand grew for these unique pontoons throughout the Midwest region, Hawn expanded his production facilities and workforce to meet customer needs. By investing heavily in research and development (R&D), he continued improving upon existing designs while also introducing new models into the market. In 1962, after four years of successful growth under Hawn’s leadership, Crest Pontoons became incorporated as "Crest Marine Inc." The company continued its steady expansion throughout the following decades by focusing on delivering quality products coupled with unmatched customer service. In 1985 another significant milestone occurred when Harold Schrock bought out Dave's interest in Crest Marine Inc., becoming its sole owner. Under Schrock’s guidance, the company continued to grow and innovate. In 1987, Crest introduced its first fiberglass pontoon boat called "Bermuda". This model featured a sleek design with enhanced performance capabilities that set a new standard in the industry. Crest Marine's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement led them to introduce several other groundbreaking models such as “the Classic”, which was designed for luxury cruising, and “the Sport” for watersports enthusiasts. These models were an instant hit in the market, further solidifying Crest’s position as a leader in pontoon boats. In 2001, Crest Marine Inc. underwent another ownership change when it was acquired by Maurell Products Worldwide Inc., now known as Brunswick Corporation. With this acquisition came significant changes that have helped propel Crest Pontoons to even greater heights. Under Brunswick’s ownership, Crest has expanded its production facilities and distribution channels to cater to increasing demand from both domestic and international markets. Furthermore, they have also invested heavily in R&D resulting in newer models being launched into the market every year with improved features such as larger deck space, more horsepower engines and advanced technology systems. Today, Crest Pontoons offers six different series of pontoons – Classic LX Series (luxury cruising), Caribbean Platinum Series (performance), Continental NX Series (entry-level luxury), Savannah LX Series (premium cruising), Caliber DLX Series (sport-fishing) and Caliber XRS Series (high-performance). These series are built on three core values - quality craftsmanship, superior comfort, and exceptional performance. The success of these values is evident through numerous awards won by Crest over the years including multiple NMMA Innovation Awards for their cutting-edge designs. They have also received recognition from respected boating publications like Boating Industry Magazine who named them one of America's fastest-growing private companies four times since 2013. Beyond just producing top-quality pontoons for recreational purposes, Crest has also ventured into the commercial market with its “Ultimate Adventure” series. These pontoons are built to withstand harsh conditions and provide a comfortable and safe experience for tour operators, rental companies, and other commercial users. In addition to their focus on product innovation, Crest Pontoons also places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction. They offer customizable options for each model to cater to individual preferences and needs. Furthermore, they have an extensive dealer network that provides customers with exceptional service before, during, and after the sale. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1957. With over six decades of experience in the boating industry, they have established themselves as one of the most trusted brands in pontoon boats. From introducing aluminum pontoons to fiberglass models and incorporating advanced technology systems, Crest continues to lead the way in innovation while also staying true to their core values of quality craftsmanship, superior comfort,and exceptional performance. As they continue to expand their reach globally under Brunswick Corporation’s ownership,Crest Pontoons is well-positioned for continued success in the future.

Crest Pontoons is a well-known manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats. The company was founded in 1957 by David Cato, who had a passion for boating and saw an opportunity to improve upon the traditional flat-bottomed pontoon design. He wanted to create a boat that offered both comfort and performance on the water. In its early years, Crest Pontoons focused on perfecting its design and manufacturing process. Cato spent countless hours experimenting with different materials and construction techniques until he found the perfect combination for durability, stability, and speed. By the 1970s, Crest Pontoons had gained recognition as one of the top manufacturers in the industry. Its boats were known for their sleek designs, high-quality construction, and superior performance. The company continued to innovate with features such as lifting strakes and larger diameter pontoons to enhance speed and handling. In 1991, Crest Pontoons was acquired by Brunswick Corporation - one of the world's largest recreational marine companies. This partnership allowed for further advancements in technology and expanded distribution channels across North America. Throughout the 2000s, Crest Pontoons continued to push boundaries with innovative features like fiberglass bow sections for improved aesthetics and increased storage space. In addition, they introduced various amenities such as premium sound systems, LED lighting packages, custom upholstery options, swim decks with boarding ladders,and more luxurious seating arrangements. Today,Crest Pontoons offers a wide range of models suited for all types of boaters – from families looking for a fun day out on the water to avid anglers seeking top-of-the-line fishing capabilities.Combining comfort,safety,and performance effortlessly has been atthe forefrontof every boat built since its inception over six decades ago.Customization options are also availableto ensure each customer gets exactly what they want from their boat. Crest’s commitment to innovation is evident through its use of cutting-edge technologyand materials. This includes advanced composite constructions, such as the company’s patented “Tapered Tube” design which offers increased buoyancy and reduced drag, resulting in improved fuel efficiency and handling. In addition to its innovative designs,Crest Pontoons also focuses on sustainability. The company is committed to using eco-friendly materials and processes that minimize their impact on the environment. Crest Pontoons has received numerous awards for its quality products over the years, including being named "Manufacturer of the Year" by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) multiple times. Their dedication to excellence has solidified their position as one of the leading pontoon boat manufacturers in North America. From humble beginnings in 1957 to becoming a leader in luxury pontoon boats, Crest Pontoons continues to evolve and innovate while staying true to its core values of quality, performance,and customer satisfaction. With a rich history and a bright future ahead,the brandcontinues tocementits placeasoneofthe most recognized namesinthe boating industry.

Elgin, Illinois is a city with a rich and vibrant history that spans over 180 years. Located in Kane County, Elgin has transformed from a small farming community to a bustling industrial center, and now serves as a thriving suburban metropolis. The story of Elgin’s past is one filled with triumphs, struggles, growth, and resilience. The area that would become Elgin was first inhabited by the Potawatomi Native American tribe. In 1835, James T. Gifford and Hezekiah Gifford arrived in the area from New York state looking for fertile land to settle on. They chose this particular spot along the Fox River due to its abundant natural resources and potential for agricultural success. Around this time period, there was growing interest among Americans in moving westward towards new lands. As more pioneers began settling in the area around present-day Chicago known as “Chicagoland,” they needed access to goods such as foodstuffs and lumber which could be obtained from farmers like the Giffords who settled near rivers or waterways. In 1836, James T.Gifford renamed his settlement "Elk Grove" after spotting herds of elk roaming freely on its prairies; however he soon learned that another nearby settlement had already claimed that name so he changed it again to "Big Woods." At this time Big Woods consisted of only two families: those of James T.Gifford & Samuel J.Kimball (brother-in-law). Both men were well-known leaders within their respective communities but realized very quickly how important it would be for them not only maintain good relations with each other but also establish strong working relationships if they wanted their settlements succeed. Despite these early challenges faced by settlers like Gifford and Kimball in establishing themselves in an unfamiliar territory surrounded by hostile native tribes including Blackhawk's band of Sauk Indians who fought alongside British troops in the War of 1812, they persevered and soon succeeded in building a thriving community. In 1837, Big Woods was officially renamed Elgin after Lord Elgin, an influential British statesman who supported American independence. In its early years, Elgin’s economy was primarily based on agriculture with farmers producing crops like wheat, oats, barley and corn. However, within a few decades the city's industrial boom began when two brothers from New York established the Illinois Watch Company in 1864 which became one of the largest employers in the area at that time. Other industries such as milk production and dairy processing also started to emerge during this period. The construction of railroads through Elgin played a significant role in its development as it provided easy access to markets for agricultural produce and also helped attract new businesses to set up shop in town. The Chicago & North Western Railway arrived first in 1850 followed by Chicago Milwaukee & St Paul (CM&StP) Railroad just five years later. As more people moved into the city seeking employment opportunities offered by these new industries being developed along with various other companies coming into existence such as National Biscuit Co., watch parts manufacturer Waltham Watch Company (which would eventually merge with Illinois Watch Company), Redmon Manufacturing Co., etc.; there was growing need for better infrastructure including schools and hospitals which were built over next several decades creating jobs not only for tradespeople but also doctors teachers nurses among others who came work here opened their own businesses or worked local factories mills warehouses stores service organizations etc.. Elgin continued to prosper throughout the late 19th century and early 20th century despite facing challenges such as economic depressions and two devastating fires that destroyed much of downtown. By this point, it had become one of Illinois’ largest cities outside of Chicago boasting a population of nearly 38 thousand residents by World War II. During this time period many notable events took place in Elgin including the founding of Judson College (now known as Judson University) in 1913, and the establishment of a public library which was donated by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in 1901. The city also became home to a significant number of cultural institutions such as the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Gail Borden Public Library, and Hemmens Cultural Center. In the latter half of the 20th century, Elgin experienced rapid suburbanization with new housing developments and shopping centers being built to accommodate its growing population. Today, it is considered one of Chicago’s northwest suburbs with over 112 thousand residents. Elgin has continued to evolve through various economic ups and downs but has remained resilient throughout its history. In recent years, there have been efforts to revitalize downtown Elgin while preserving its historic buildings and landmarks. The city continues to be an important industrial center with companies like Motorola Solutions calling it home. In conclusion, Elgin's history is one that reflects America's story - from humble beginnings as a small farming community to becoming an economic powerhouse during industrialization. Its journey has been shaped by pioneers who had vision for growth and prosperity despite facing numerous challenges along the way. Today, Elgin stands tall as a thriving city that celebrates its past while constantly looking towards building a brighter future for generations to come.

Elgin, Illinois has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the 1800s. The city was founded in 1835 by James T. Gifford, who named it after his Scottish hometown of Elgin. Initially established as a small farming community along the Fox River, Elgin quickly grew into an industrial center with its prime location near Chicago. One of the most significant events in Elgin's history was the arrival of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad in 1850. This led to an economic boom for the city, as industries such as watchmaking, dairy processing, and furniture production emerged. By the late 19th century, Elgin had become one of the largest producers of watches in America and earned itself the nickname "Watch City." The success of manufacturing industries attracted immigrants from various countries to settle in Elgin, bringing their unique cultures and traditions with them. German settlers were particularly influential in shaping Elgin's culture and economy during this time. In addition to industry growth, education also played a vital role in shaping Elgin's development. In 1858, Gail Borden opened a condensed milk factory which eventually became part of Nestlé’s manufacturing complex located within city limits today. Elgin is also known for its historic architecture with many well-preserved buildings dating back to its early days. Notable examples include Victorian homes on Douglas Avenue often referred to as “Mansion Row,” St Mary’s Church (built-in 1887), Holy Trinity Lutheran Church (1869) designed by renowned architect George O’Rourke among others. The city continued to thrive throughout the early 20th century but faced challenges during World War II when factories shifted their production towards war efforts instead of consumer goods like watches or furniture causing unemployment rates rise sharply post-war years but picked up again soon thereafter thanks largely due federal housing developments which provided employment opportunities while improving infrastructure such paved roads, sidewalks and street lighting. In the 1950s and 1960s, Elgin experienced a period of urban renewal with the construction of new shopping centers, high-rise buildings, and public housing. The city also saw an influx of residents from Chicago looking for suburban living while still being close to the city. However, this growth was not without controversy as it led to displacement in some neighborhoods and tensions between new and established communities. Today, Elgin is a thriving community with a diverse population of over 110,000 people. It continues to be an important industrial hub with companies like Sherman Hospital (now Advocate Sherman Hospital) which opened in early 1891 expanding its reach by opening several medical facilities within surrounding suburbs such Barrington or South Elgin among others; School District U46 serving nearly students across multiple cities; Gail Borden Public Library system one largest libraries Illinois servicing all independent school districts located within county lines; Judson University college campus situated along Route-20 corridor catering undergraduate programs alongside graduate degrees covering business management fields ranging healthcare administration entrepreneurship engineering even architecture landscape design disciplines just mention few examples. Elgin's history is celebrated through various events and landmarks throughout the city. The Annual Elgin History Museum’s Ghost Walk takes visitors on a tour featuring notable historical figures who once lived in the area told by actors dressed up as specific characters bringing lost stories back life again every year around Halloween season starting late October running into November weekends only making reservation beforehand necessary due popularity event selling out quickly each time held! Additionally there are numerous parks recreational areas offering children opportunities learn about natural sciences or participate sports activities summer camps geared towards kids ages four fifteen depending program chosen plus adult leagues available too so don’t forget pack your gear when planning visit! Overall, Elgin's rich history has shaped it into the vibrant community that it is today. From its early days as a farming town to becoming an industrial powerhouse and now a bustling suburban city, Elgin has continuously evolved while still preserving its roots and heritage.

Crest Pontoons, a prominent and respected name in the boating industry, has been manufacturing high-quality pontoons since 1957. Headquartered in Elgin, Illinois, Crest Pontoons has established itself as one of the leading pontoon manufacturers in North America. The history of Crest Pontoons dates back to 1950 when four brothers – Robert, Charles, William and James Goodwin – founded a small boat repair shop called "Goodwin Brothers," in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs. In the early years, they specialized in repairing wooden boats but soon realized that there was a growing demand for modern aluminum pontoons. This realization led them to shift their focus towards manufacturing rather than just repairing boats. In 1957, Goodwin Brothers officially became Crest Pontoon Boats after creating their first-ever welded aluminum pontoon with a fiberglass cabin top. This pioneering design set the foundation for what would become an iconic brand over the next six decades. In the early days of production, all components were handcrafted by skilled craftsmen who took great pride in every boat they built. The company quickly gained recognition for its superior craftsmanship and innovative designs which contributed to its rapid growth. By 1962,Crest Pontoons had outgrown its original facility and moved operations to Elgin -a larger city located about thirty miles away from Chicago. The move proved to be beneficial as it allowed them more space for production expansion while also being closer to major waterways where customers could test drive their boats before purchasing. Throughout the '60s and '70s,Crest continued to push boundaries with new innovations such as introducing V-shaped hulls on some models which significantly improved performance on rougher waters. They also expanded their product line by offering different sizes and configurations including luxury cabins with bedrooms,bathrooms,and kitchens – making it possible for people to live comfortably on board while enjoying time on the water. However, despite the continued success and growth of Crest Pontoons, the Goodwin brothers decided to sell the company in 1979. The new owners kept the name "Crest" and remained committed to delivering high-quality pontoons while also introducing modern production techniques. In the early '80s,Crest introduced a revolutionary design –the "Superstructure." This innovative concept combined an aluminum frame with fiberglass panels creating a stronger pontoon that could withstand harsh weather conditions. This design was so successful that it became standard on all models and is still used by Crest today. The late '90s saw further expansion for Crest as they began exporting their boats internationally, making them one of the first US-based boat companies to do so. They also invested in state-of-the-art manufacturing equipment which allowed for increased production without compromising on quality. Today,Crest Pontoons continues to lead innovation in pontoon design and technology. With a wide range of models available, from luxury cabins to sporty performance pontoons, they cater to every boater's needs. Their commitment to superior craftsmanship and customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards over the years including being named "Manufacturer of the Year" by Boat & Motor Dealer Magazine multiple times. In recent years,Crest has also made significant efforts towards sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices such as using recycled materials in their boats' construction and reducing waste during production. Despite facing challenges like economic recessions and fluctuating fuel prices,Crest Pontoons remains resilient thanks to its strong foundation built on quality products, innovative designs,and exceptional customer service. Their impact goes beyond just providing recreational opportunities; it's about creating lasting memories for families,friends,and individuals who share a love for boating. As we look towards Crest Pontoon's future,it is evident that they will continue leading industry trends while staying true to their core values –quality,innovation,sustainability,and customer satisfaction– ensuring that their legacy lives on for generations to come.

Crest Pontoons, also known as Crest Marine LLC, is a leading manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats. Founded in 1957 by David F. Lippert Sr., the company is based in Owosso, Michigan and has been providing boating enthusiasts with high-quality pontoons for over six decades. The History of Crest Pontoons Crest Marine LLC was originally established as Maurell Products Inc., which manufactured aluminum products such as ladders and railings for residential use. However, after noticing the increasing popularity of pontoon boats on lakes and rivers across the country, founder David F. Lippert Sr. saw an opportunity to enter into the boat manufacturing business. In 1976, Maurell Products Inc. officially changed its name to Crest Pontoon Boats and began producing their first line of pontoon boats under the brand name "Savanna." The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and superior craftsmanship, making them a top choice among boaters. Over time, Crest Pontoons continued to evolve with the changing needs and preferences of consumers. In 1991, they introduced their flagship model - the Caribbean Series - which revolutionized the industry with features like a full-length M-bracket construction that improved handling and stability on rough waters. Today's Product Line Crest Pontoons offers nine different series of luxury pontoons: Classic LX Fish & Cruise series; Savannah SLC; Caliber Sport; Caribbean CS3/CS4/CS5; Continental NX250/270/290; Classic DLX Fish & Cruise series; Savannah LX SLR2/LXR2/MXRF2/E4 XRS/C4 XRS/E6 XRS models; Caliber Fish II/Fish III/Sport II/Sport III models along with many others like Victory Series VX230/VX250/VX270/VX290/Angler/QX (Quad Lounger) models, Crest II Fish & Cruise Series; Caribbean Platinum 230 LX/250 SLR2/LXR2/E4 XRS/C4 XRS and many more. Each series offers a unique set of features and options to cater to the specific needs and preferences of boaters. From fishing enthusiasts looking for a versatile boat with ample storage space to families who want a comfortable and luxurious vessel for leisurely cruises on the water, Crest Pontoons has something for everyone. Innovations in Design One of the key factors that sets Crest Pontoons apart from other manufacturers is their commitment to innovation in design. The company's engineering team continuously works towards improving their products by incorporating new technologies and materials into their designs. Some notable innovations introduced by Crest Pontoons include: 1. CREST WAVE Zenith Deep V Hull: This patented hull design improves handling, stability, and performance on rough waters while also reducing drag for better fuel efficiency. 2. Waveglider Triple Pontoon System: This system uses three full-length pontoons instead of two, providing increased buoyancy, better weight distribution, improved maneuverability, and enhanced fuel efficiency. 3. Captains Choice Performance Package: This package includes features like hydraulic steering with power assist, aluminum underskinning between tubes for added strength and rigidity under the deck as well as additional lifting strakes on each side of all three tubes – resulting in superior handling capabilities even at high speeds or sharp turns. 4. Powder Coated Tubes: Instead of traditional paint or decals used by other manufacturers that can chip or fade over time due to exposure to sun and water elements - now powder-coated pontoons are available which provide not only an attractive finish but also add durability against harsh marine conditions ensuring longevity without fading signs. Customer Satisfaction Crest Pontoons take great pride in delivering exceptional customer satisfaction through their products as well as services. Their commitment to quality is evident by the fact that Crest Pontoons have been ranked number one in customer satisfaction for six consecutive years by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). The company also offers a variety of customization options and upgrades, allowing customers to create their dream boat with personalized features and design elements. Furthermore, Crest Pontoons stands behind their products with an industry-leading lifetime warranty on all structural components. Environmental Responsibility In addition to providing top-of-the-line boats, Crest Pontoons also takes its responsibility towards the environment seriously. The company has implemented various eco-friendly practices in its manufacturing processes, such as using recycled aluminum for construction and utilizing environmentally friendly coatings. Furthermore, all engines used in Crest Pontoons are certified by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) - which sets standards for emissions from marine engines - ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. Conclusion Crest Pontoons continues to be a leader in luxury pontoon boat manufacturing due to their commitment towards innovation, quality craftsmanship, exceptional customer service and responsible environmental practices. With over 60 years of experience in the industry, they have established themselves as a trusted brand among boaters worldwide. From humble beginnings as Maurell Products Inc., today's Crest Pontoon Boats offer unparalleled performance coupled with luxurious comfort and style that cater to any boater's needs. Whether it's fishing or leisurely cruising on the waterways – there is no doubt that investing in a Crest Pontoon would provide an unforgettable experience every time you set sail.