Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors and marine propulsion systems, with a rich history in Elgin, Illinois. The company has been a key player in the boating industry for over 80 years and continues to innovate and thrive in its operations. The story of Mercury Marine's presence in Elgin begins back in 1939 when it was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer. At the time, Kiekhaefer was running an engineering firm that specialized in magnetic separators for dairy farms. However, his love for speedboats led him to purchase an old factory building on West Chicago Street in downtown Elgin. Kiekhaefer saw potential in this space to expand his business into manufacturing boat engines. He started by hiring skilled workers from local companies such as Sears Roebuck & Co., who had experience working with aluminum casting. This decision proved to be crucial as it allowed Mercury Marine to produce lightweight yet powerful engines that were perfect for powering small racing boats. In its early years, Mercury Marine faced several challenges, including financial struggles and competition from established brands like Johnson Outboards. However, under Kiekhaefer's leadership and innovative designs, the company began gaining recognition within the boating community. One significant event that helped put Mercury Marine on the map was their triumph at the 1958 Miami-Nassau Race where they won four out of five classes entered – setting new records along the way. This victory marked a turning point for the company as it gained widespread attention and respect from its competitors. As demand for their products grew rapidly throughout the 1960s and '70s, Mercury Marine continued expanding its operations within Elgin. In 1972, they built a new facility on North State Street which became their headquarters until recently relocating to Fond du Lac Wisconsin due to expansion needs. Throughout these decades of growth and success came many product innovations that solidified Mercury Marine's position as an industry leader. In 1961, they introduced their first V6 outboard motor – a design that would become the standard in powerboat racing and recreational boating for years to come. The company continued to push boundaries with new technology and designs, such as the introduction of electronic fuel injection (EFI) engines in 1985 – a feature that is now standard on all modern outboard motors. They also expanded into other marine products such as stern drives and propellers, further solidifying their position as a comprehensive provider of propulsion systems. In addition to product innovation, Mercury Marine has always placed importance on investing in its workforce and community. Through partnerships with local schools and universities, they offer educational programs for students interested in careers related to manufacturing or engineering. The company also supports various charitable organizations within Elgin through donations and volunteer work. However, like many businesses, Mercury Marine faced challenges during economic downturns over the years. One notable event was when Brunswick Corporation acquired the company in 1961 during a time when Kiekhaefer was facing financial difficulties due to increased competition from Japanese manufacturers. Despite these challenges, Mercury Marine remained resilient and continued its commitment to growth and innovation. Over time, it became one of Elgin's largest employers bringing stability and prosperity to the community. Today, Mercury Marine remains at the forefront of marine propulsion technology through ongoing research & development efforts. Their current line-up includes four-stroke outboards ranging from 2-600 horsepower – offering customers unmatched performance while meeting strict environmental standards. Looking back at their history in Elgin, it is clear that Mercury Marine has played an integral role not only within the boating industry but also within the community itself. From humble beginnings on West Chicago Street to becoming a global leader in marine propulsion systems - this success story is truly remarkable. Furthermore, even though they have relocated their headquarters away from Elgin after nearly 50 years, the company's impact and legacy in the city will always be remembered. Many Elgin residents have worked at Mercury Marine or have family members who did, making it a significant part of local history and culture. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Elgin is one of resilience, innovation, and community involvement. From its humble beginnings to becoming a global leader in the boating industry, the company has left a lasting mark on both the city of Elgin and the marine world. As they continue to grow and evolve as a brand, their presence in Elgin will always be cherished by those who witnessed its rise to success.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines, parts and accessories. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has become a household name among boaters and water enthusiasts around the world. Mercury Marine's dedication to quality and innovation has solidified its position as an industry leader for over eight decades. One of the key factors that set Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is its commitment to delivering high-quality products. The company prides itself on using state-of-the-art technology and advanced manufacturing processes to produce reliable and durable marine engines. Each engine undergoes rigorous testing before leaving the factory, ensuring that customers can trust their equipment out on the water. In addition to producing top-notch engines, Mercury Marine also offers a wide range of parts and accessories designed to enhance performance, functionality, and safety on boats. From propellers to gauges and controls, every component is carefully crafted with precision engineering techniques for optimal performance in any marine environment. Another aspect that makes Mercury Marine stand out is its continuous pursuit of innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development (R&D) activities to stay ahead of market trends while addressing customer needs effectively. This approach has resulted in several groundbreaking advancements such as electronic fuel injection (EFI), supercharged four-stroke engines, joystick piloting systems, active trim control technology, digital throttle & shift (DTS) systems – just some examples from a long list. Moreover, environmental responsibility has always been at the core of Mercury Marine's operations since day one. The company recognizes that it operates within fragile ecosystems where even small changes can have significant impacts on aquatic life. Therefore they are continuously working towards developing cleaner-burning engines with lower emissions levels without compromising performance or durability. Mercury Marine not only manufactures products but also takes pride in providing exceptional customer service through their extensive network of dealers worldwide. They offer comprehensive training programs for technicians who work with their products; this ensures that customers receive expert advice and solutions for their boating needs. The company also has a dedicated customer support team that is available to assist with any inquiries or concerns. Over the years, Mercury Marine has received numerous awards and recognitions for its products, services, and commitment to sustainability. In 2018, they were named Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) in recognition of their economic contributions and innovation in manufacturing. They have also been recognized as one of America's Best Employers by Forbes magazine multiple times. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded beyond marine engines into new markets such as power sports vehicles and electric propulsion systems. This diversification allows them to stay ahead of industry trends while providing customers with innovative options for all types of watercraft. Despite facing challenges like changing regulations and market fluctuations over the years, Mercury Marine remains committed to its core values – quality, innovation, environmental responsibility, and customer satisfaction. With a strong global presence spanning over 100 countries worldwide and a loyal customer base who trust their brand above others; it is clear that Mercury Marine will continue making waves in the marine industry for many more decades to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, with a history that dates back to 1939. The company’s roots in Elgin, Illinois can be traced back to its founder, Carl Kiekhaefer. In the late 1930s, Kiekhaefer had started an engineering consulting business in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. One of his clients was E.P. Johnson & Company, which manufactured outboard motors for small boats. E.P. Johnson & Company was struggling financially at the time and was on the verge of bankruptcy. Kiekhaefer saw potential in the company's products and decided to buy it in 1939 for $2,000. He moved the operations from Milwaukee to Cedarburg, Wisconsin and renamed it “Kiekhaefer Corporation”. Under his management and leadership, the company began producing high-quality outboard motors that quickly gained popularity among boating enthusiasts. By 1946, Kiekhaefer Corporation had grown significantly and needed more space for production. Kiekhaefer found a property in Elgin, Illinois that consisted of three large buildings previously used by World War II defense contractor National Watch Case Company. This location provided ample room for expansion as well as access to transportation routes via railroads and waterways. The move to Elgin marked a significant turning point for Mercury Marine as it allowed them to increase production capacity while also expanding their product line beyond outboard motors into sterndrive units (inboards). In addition to manufacturing facilities, Kiekhaefer also built administrative offices and a research center at this location. Over the next few decades, Mercury Marine continued to grow under Carl Kiekhaefer’s guidance with innovations such as aluminum casting techniques for engine blocks and electronic ignition systems being introduced during this time period. In 1961 Carl sold Mercury Marine to Brunswick Corporation but stayed on as CEO until his retirement in 1969. Under Brunswick’s ownership, Mercury Marine continued to thrive and expand its product line, with the Elgin facility serving as a hub for research and development. The 1970s saw significant growth for Mercury Marine, with the company expanding into new markets such as snowmobile engines and personal watercraft. The Elgin facility continued to be a crucial part of this growth, producing both outboard motors and sterndrive units. In the early 1980s, Mercury Marine faced financial difficulties due to an economic downturn in the boating industry. As a result, Brunswick made the decision to consolidate operations and close several facilities across North America. Unfortunately, this included the Elgin location which had been operating since 1946. The closure of the Elgin plant was met with disappointment from both employees and local community members who had come to rely on Mercury Marine as an important employer in the area. However, production at other locations such as Fond du Lac Wisconsin remained strong and allowed Mercury Marine to continue growing into one of today’s leading marine engine manufacturers. Today, while no longer headquartered in Illinois, Mercury Marine maintains a presence through dealerships throughout the state offering sales support services for customers seeking service or parts assistance related specifically towards their boat's propulsion systems needs – all stemming from that initial move by Carl Kiekhaefer over eight decades ago.

Elgin, Illinois is a city located in the northeastern part of the state. It is the eighth-largest city in Illinois and has a population of approximately 112,100 people as of 2021. Elgin was founded in 1835 and named after James T. Gifford's birthplace, Elgin, Scotland. The early history of Elgin can be traced back to its Native American roots. The Potawatomi tribe were the first inhabitants of this area before it was settled by European immigrants. In 1829, brothers Joseph and Samuel McCarty purchased land from the government and built a trading post which attracted more settlers to the area. Incorporated as a village in 1847 and later as a city in 1854, Elgin saw significant growth during the mid-19th century due to its location along major railroads connecting Chicago with other parts of the country. The availability of transportation made it easier for goods produced in Elgin such as dairy products, produce, watches (more on that later), bricks, and textiles to be shipped across the United States. One industry that had a significant impact on Elgin's development was watchmaking. In 1866, National Watch Company (later known as Elgin National Watch Company) opened its headquarters in Elgin. This company became one of America's largest watch manufacturers until it closed its doors permanently in 1968. The presence of this watchmaking company brought economic prosperity to Elgin and attracted workers from all over Europe who settled here with their families. As time passed by, other industries like banking institutions also emerged contributing significantly towards building up an industrial economy for this small town turned bustling city. Today there are still remnants left behind from these earlier days such as historic buildings like The Hemmens Cultural Center which dates back to when it was constructed around World War I era; or Lords Park Zoo where visitors can enjoy seeing animals native to Illinois and also take a stroll through the beautiful gardens. In addition to its rich history, Elgin is also known for its diverse population. The city has a large Hispanic community, with 45% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. This diversity is reflected in Elgin's vibrant culture, which can be seen in its many festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular events in Elgin is the annual Mexican Independence Day Festival. It celebrates Mexican heritage and culture with traditional food, music, dancing, and other activities. Another event that draws crowds from all over is the Elgin Fringe Festival, which showcases experimental art performances from local and international artists. Elgin takes pride in preserving its historical landmarks while also embracing modern development. One such example is Downtown Elgin's Riverwalk Promenade, a scenic stretch along the Fox River that features public artwork displays and outdoor seating areas perfect for dining or relaxation. Education plays an essential role in shaping Elgin's future generations. The city has several public schools under School District U-46 that serve students from kindergarten through high school. There are also private schools available for families seeking alternative education options. Elgin Community College (ECC) offers higher education opportunities to residents at an affordable cost. ECC collaborates with local businesses to provide workforce training programs thus bridging any skill gaps between what employers need versus what potential employees have been trained on so far. Apart from providing quality education opportunities for residents, ECC also serves as an economic driver by attracting students from surrounding communities who contribute towards boosting local businesses' revenue streams during their time here on campus or off-campus exploring everything this bustling city has got going on! The strong sense of community found in Elgin is evident through various initiatives taken by individuals and organizations alike to better their neighborhoods actively. One such organization making significant strides towards improving lives within these communities includes Food For Greater Life (FFGL), a local non-profit organization that provides food, clothing, household items, and other basic necessities to families in need. Elgin also has a robust recreational scene with over 75 parks and playgrounds spread throughout the city. The most popular of these is Lords Park, which offers activities such as hiking trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas, and even a zoo. There are also multiple sports leagues for both children and adults to participate in year-round. In recent years, Elgin has seen significant economic growth with the development of new businesses and industries. The city's strategic location between Chicago and Milwaukee makes it an attractive destination for companies looking to expand their operations. One notable example is the Elgin Technology Center (ETC), a business incubator that offers support services to entrepreneurs starting or expanding their businesses. ETC has been instrumental in helping small businesses grow by providing resources like office space, mentorship programs, networking opportunities, and access to funding options. In conclusion, Elgin may have started as a small trading post but has evolved into a dynamic city with rich history and diverse culture. From its early days of being an industrial hub thanks to watchmaking to now being home to various industries ranging from healthcare services to technology-based startups; this vibrant community continues thriving while preserving its heritage through historic preservation efforts! With its strong sense of community spirit combined with modern developments constantly taking place within this bustling metropolis located just outside greater Chicago area - there truly is something special about living here that you won't find anywhere else!

Mercury Marine is an iconic American company that has been a leader in the marine industry for over 80 years. Known for its high-performance engines and innovative technologies, Mercury Marine has become synonymous with quality and reliability in the boating world. In this paper, we will explore the history of Mercury Marine, from its humble beginnings to becoming one of the most recognized brands in the marine industry. The story of Mercury Marine begins in 1939 when engineer Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturer called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company in Wisconsin. The company was originally founded by E.C. "Carl" Clemick as an outboard motor manufacturing company but had failed due to poor management and financial troubles during the Great Depression. Kiekhaefer saw potential in reviving this struggling business and renamed it “Kiekhaefer Corporation.” Initially, Kiekhaefer's plan was to produce magnetic separators used for separating milkweed seed from cottonseed. However, he soon discovered that his engineers were talented at creating lightweight two-cylinder motors which are significantly more powerful than other outboards on the market at that time. In July 1940, after extensive research and development, Kiekhaefer introduced his first product – a six-horsepower outboard motor known as “Thor.” This motor gained popularity very quickly because it was ten pounds lighter than any other available option on the market at that time. With increasing demand for their products, Kiehkaefer expanded his business by purchasing another factory building near Lake Michigan’s shore where boats could be tested before being shipped off to customers worldwide. By 1942, with World War II underway and all recreational activities banned along coastal areas due to national security concerns; small boat manufacturers were forced into supplying US military efforts instead of catering to leisure markets. This gave rise to an unexpected opportunity for companies like Thor industries who specialized primarily in outboard engines. Kiehkaefer realized this and quickly signed a contract with the US army to supply outboard motors for their small watercraft. The success of supplying outboards to the military led Kiekhaefer Corporation to shift its focus towards producing marine engines exclusively. In 1949, they changed their name from “Kiekhaefer Corporation” to "Mercury Marine" – inspired by Mercury, the Roman god of speed. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury Marine continued to innovate and expand its product range. They introduced new technologies such as electric starting systems, automatic gear shifting, and remote controls for their engines. These advancements made boating more convenient and accessible for recreational purposes. In addition to technological advancements, Mercury also focused on performance improvements in their products. In 1957 they launched a new line of V6 engines that offered greater horsepower than any other outboard engine on the market at that time. During this period, Mercury Marine also became heavily involved in racing events such as boat races and powerboat championships. With each victory came increased brand recognition and credibility within the boating community. In 1961, tragedy struck when Carl Kiekhaefer passed away unexpectedly at age 58 due to heart failure while attending a boat race event in Florida. His son John took over as president of the company but was unable to fill his father's shoes entirely initially; he lacked Carl’s vision or passion for engineering which were key reasons behind Mercurys’ early successes. However after some turbulent years under Johns lead - including layoffs due declining sales- he eventually turned things around through diversifying into different industries like snowmobile production along with expanding overseas markets which helped propel mercury back onto track financially during late sixties/early seventies decade Throughout the next few decades, Mercury Marine continued its growth trajectory by acquiring smaller companies such as Mariner Outboards (1976) and Force Outboards (1984). These acquisitions helped expand their product range and market share. In 1998, Mercury Marine became a part of Brunswick Corporation – the world's largest marine manufacturer. This partnership allowed Mercury to access more resources, technology, and distribution channels, further cementing its position as a leader in the industry. Today, Mercury Marine offers a wide range of products including outboard engines, sterndrives, propellers, parts & accessories. They have also expanded into new markets such as fishing boats and pontoons through partnerships with other boat manufacturers. In recent years, Mercury has continued to innovate with the introduction of advanced technologies such as Joystick Piloting for Outboards – allowing boaters to control multiple engines simultaneously with just one joystick. They have also focused on sustainability by implementing environmentally friendly practices in their manufacturing processes. Mercury Marine’s success over the past eight decades can be attributed to its commitment to innovation and quality. Their constant drive for improvement has made them a household name in the boating community worldwide. As they continue to adapt to changing market demands and introduce cutting-edge technologies, it is clear that Mercury Marine will remain an influential player in the marine industry for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, with a rich history spanning over 80 years. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who purchased an outboard motor company called Thor Outboard Motor Company in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Under the leadership of Kiekhaefer, Mercury quickly gained recognition for its high-quality outboard motors. In the early days, the company primarily produced racing engines for powerboat competitions. However, as demand grew for recreational boating after World War II, Mercury shifted its focus to manufacturing reliable and efficient outboard motors for everyday use. In 1947, Mercury introduced its first commercially available outboard motor - the Lightning Quick Six (also known as KG-7). This lightweight and powerful engine became an instant success and set a new standard in the industry. Over time, Mercury expanded its product line to include larger horsepower models suitable for different types of boats. In addition to producing innovative products, Mercury also focused on improving customer service and support. The company established a network of dealerships across North America to provide customers with easy access to parts and services. By the 1960s, Mercury had become one of the largest manufacturers of marine engines in the world. It continued to grow through strategic acquisitions such as purchasing MerCruiser (a manufacturer of sterndrive units) in 1961 and acquiring Michigan Wheel Corporation (a propeller maker) in 1973. Throughout the following decades, Mercury Marine continued to introduce groundbreaking technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and four-stroke engines that were more environmentally friendly than traditional two-stroke models. Today, Mercury Marine is part of Brunswick Corporation - a global leader in recreational boating - which acquired it in 1961. The company has expanded its presence worldwide with facilities located across Europe and Asia-Pacific regions. Its products are sold through an extensive dealer network in over 100 countries. Mercury Marine remains committed to innovation, investing heavily in research and development to deliver cutting-edge products for a wide range of boating applications. The company's engines power everything from small fishing boats to high-performance racing boats, making it a trusted brand among boaters worldwide. Its dedication to quality, reliability, and customer service has solidified its position as one of the top marine engine manufacturers in the world.

Elgin, Illinois is a city with a rich and diverse history that has shaped its identity and character. Located just 35 miles northwest of Chicago, Elgin is situated along the Fox River and was founded in 1835 by James T. Gifford and Hezekiah Gifford as a planned community for settlers from New England. Early History Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Elgin was inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi, Miami, Sauk, Fox, and Winnebago. These indigenous peoples used the land for hunting and fishing but also had established villages along the Fox River. In 1804, Captain Joseph Vance received a land grant from Thomas Jefferson to build a military road connecting Detroit to Chicago. This road passed through what is now Elgin and became an important trade route for early settlers. Foundation of Elgin The city of Elgin was officially founded on April 12th, 1836 when James T.Gifford named it after his Scottish hometown of Elgin. The first years were difficult for the small settlement due to harsh winters and lack of resources. However, with determination and hard work from its residents, including many German immigrants who brought their skilled craftsmanship to the town's development, By mid-19th century, Elgin grew rapidly due to its location on major transportation routes like railroads which allowed for easy access to markets in Chicago. In addition to agriculture being a major industry in this period, the arrival of two prominent industries – watchmaking (1864)and dairy farming (1872) further boosted economic growth. Watchmaking Industry The most significant contribution made by Elgin towards industrialization came in form of watch manufacturing companies - National Watch Company (later renamed 'Elgin National Watch Company') followed by Waltham Manufacturing Company which set up factories here owing to abundant supply of high-quality water and skilled labor. These companies established Elgin as the "Watch City" of America, with its watches being known for their precision and reliability. Dairy Farming The establishment of dairy farms in 1872 by Edward Hines brought about a thriving milk industry in Elgin. This led to the development of various dairy products such as cheese, butter, and condensed milk, which were shipped all over the country. The success of this industry also gave rise to other related businesses like creameries and ice cream factories. Immigration The growth opportunities offered by Elgin attracted immigrants from Europe, particularly German and Swedish populations who settled in large numbers during late 19th century. They contributed significantly to the city's prosperity through their hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. Social Reforms Elgin has a history of progressive social reforms that have shaped its community values till today. In early 1900s, the city saw an influx of African Americans due to job opportunities provided by watchmaking companies. However, segregation was still prevalent in housing and public facilities at that time. In response to this issue, local civil rights activists formed organizations like NAACP (National Association for Colored People) which worked towards ending racial discrimination. Another significant reform came with the founding of Elgin Mental Health Center (originally called 'Illinois Northern Hospital for Insane') in 1869 – one of Illinois' first mental health institutions which pioneered new treatments for patients with mental illnesses. Modern Developments As Elgin continued to grow economically and demographically throughout the 20th century, it also faced challenges related to urbanization. One such challenge was preserving its historic downtown area while catering to modern developments such as shopping malls on outskirts. To overcome this challenge, the city implemented revitalization plans aimed at preserving historic buildings while encouraging economic growth through tourism promotion initiatives like art festivals, heritage tours etc., These efforts have helped maintain a balance between preserving the city's history and promoting its modern development. Today, Elgin is a vibrant community with a population of over 110,000 people. It continues to attract new residents and businesses while maintaining its small-town charm and strong sense of community. The city also boasts various cultural attractions such as the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, the Hemmens Cultural Center, and the Fox River Trolley Museum. In conclusion, Elgin's history is one of resilience, growth, and progress. From its humble beginnings as a planned settlement in the 19th century to becoming an industrial hub known for watchmaking and dairy farming, the city has continuously evolved with changing times while preserving its rich heritage. With ongoing efforts towards sustainable development, Elgin looks towards a promising future while staying connected to its past.

Elgin, Illinois is a city located in northern Illinois, approximately 35 miles northwest of Chicago. It was founded in 1835 by James T. Gifford and named after the Scottish town of the same name where many early settlers originated from. Early History: Before European settlement, the area now known as Elgin was inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Potawatomi and Miami people. The first European explorers arrived in the late 17th century with French fur traders establishing trading posts along the Fox River. In 1829, brothers James T. and Hezekiah Gifford traveled from New York to claim land grants they had received for military service during the Black Hawk War. They chose this site because it offered an excellent location on both sides of the Fox River with abundant waterpower for mills. Growth and Development: Elgin's early growth can be attributed to its ideal location between Lake Michigan and Galena (a major lead mining center at that time). In addition to its strategic location near several major transportation routes such as rivers and railroads, Elgin also had access to vast timber resources which were essential for building homes, businesses, and factories. The arrival of the railroad in 1850 further spurred economic development in Elgin as it provided faster transportation options for goods produced by local industries such as dairy farming, cattle raising, brickmaking, watchmaking (which would become one of Elgin's most famous industries), textiles manufacturing and more. Incorporation: On April 12th ,1854 The Village of Elgin was officially incorporated by state charter; becoming one of Illinois' earliest chartered towns. At that time it only included about a quarter mile radius around Fountain Square but quickly expanded throughout other parts of Kane County due to annexations over time. Industrialization: During World War II ,Elgin became an important hub for industrial production as many companies shifted their operations from the East Coast to this central location. This resulted in a population boom and a significant increase in economic activity. One of the most notable industries that emerged during this time was the Elgin National Watch Company, which became world-renowned for its precision-made watches and clocks. The company's success led to an influx of immigrants from Europe, particularly skilled workers from Switzerland who were attracted by job opportunities at the watch factory. Modern Day: Today, Elgin is a vibrant community with a diverse population of approximately 110,000 residents. It has evolved into a major center for education, healthcare, retail and manufacturing industries. Elgin also prides itself on preserving its rich history through various museums such as The Elgin History Museum and The Gail Borden Public Library; both offer exhibits showcasing artifacts and information about the city's past. In recent years, there has been significant revitalization efforts in downtown Elgin with new restaurants, shops and entertainment venues opening up. Additionally, initiatives have been taken to preserve historic buildings such as the former Cook County Courthouse which now serves as City Hall. Overall ,Elgin continues to grow while maintaining its small-town charm and strong sense of community. Its rich history serves as an important reminder of how far it has come since its humble beginnings over 180 years ago.

Mercury Marine has a long and prestigious history in Elgin, Illinois. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine quickly became one of the leading manufacturers of marine engines and propulsion systems. The company’s presence in Elgin began with the acquisition of its first factory there in 1950. The Early Years Carl Kiekhaefer was born in Mequon, Wisconsin on June 4th, 1906. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in mechanical engineering and went on to work for various companies before deciding to start his own business. In 1939, he founded Kiekhaefer Corporation which manufactured magnetic separators. However, it wasn’t until World War II that Kiekhaefer found success when he received a government contract to produce outboard motors for military use. This led him to pivot his business focus towards the production of marine engines. Incorporation into Mercury Marine Kiekhaefer Corporation was renamed Mercury Marine after purchasing an outboard motor manufacturer named Thorwaldsen Motor Company based in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. This marked the beginning of Mercury’s transition into becoming solely focused on manufacturing marine engines. As demand for their products grew rapidly throughout the late 1940s and early 1950s, Mercury needed more space for production facilities. In search of expansion opportunities outside their headquarters in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Elgin caught their attention due to its location near major waterways like Lake Michigan and Fox River where boating activity was high. Elgin Becomes Home In September 1950, construction began on Mercury’s new factory located at East Chicago Street (now known as Big Timber Road) along Route US-20 just west of downtown Elgin. The facility covered over six acres and featured two large buildings – one dedicated to engine assembly while another housed propeller manufacturing operations. With the new factory up and running, Mercury Marine began to rapidly expand their product line. In 1954, they introduced a revolutionary new engine – the Mark 75 – which became their best-selling model for over a decade. This success led to further expansion of the Elgin plant in 1956 with two additional buildings being added. Mercury’s presence in Elgin continued to grow throughout the 1960s and 1970s as they expanded into new markets such as stern drives, jet propulsion systems, and boats. By this time, the company had become one of the largest employers in Elgin with over 2,500 employees at its peak. Innovation and Growth Throughout its history in Elgin, Mercury Marine has been known for its constant innovation and commitment to quality products. In addition to introducing groundbreaking engines like the Verado series in recent years; they have also made significant advancements in environmentally-friendly technologies such as FourStroke engines that reduce emissions by up to 90%. The company’s growth was not limited to just production facilities either. In order to better serve customers on both coasts of North America; Mercury opened an additional manufacturing facility in Sturgis Bay, Wisconsin while still maintaining operations at their headquarters in Fond du Lac. Today's Impact Despite facing challenges from foreign competitors throughout its history; Mercury Marine has remained resilient thanks largely due to their dedication towards producing high-quality marine engines that are built tough enough for commercial use but also affordable for recreational users. The company continues a strong presence within boating communities across North America with several dealerships located near popular waterways including Lake Michigan where many boaters enjoy taking advantage of warm weather days during summer months. In late-2018 it was announced that Brunswick Corporation (owner of other well-known boat brands such as Boston Whaler) would be investing $10 million into expanding Mercury’s existing operations within Fond du Lac County while creating hundreds of new jobs. This decision was made in response to growing demand for Mercury’s products within the recreational boating industry. Conclusion Since its humble beginnings as a magnetic separator manufacturer; Mercury Marine has grown into one of the most respected names in marine engine production. Throughout its history, Elgin has played an important role in this growth by serving as a key manufacturing and research hub for the company. As technology continues to evolve, we can only expect more exciting advancements from Mercury Marine – and perhaps even more investment within their facilities located right here in Elgin.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, engines, and accessories for recreational, commercial, and government marine applications. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has been at the forefront of innovation and technology in the boating industry for over 80 years. The company's history dates back to its founder's passion for engineering. Carl Kiekhaefer was a skilled engineer who had previously worked as an engineer at Evinrude Motors. However, he left his job after a disagreement with management and decided to start his own business. With just $2,000 in capital and a small garage as his workshop, Kiekhaefer began manufacturing outboard motors that were known for their speed and reliability. In its early days, Mercury Marine faced tough competition from established brands like Evinrude and Johnson Motors. However, Kiekhaefer's determination to produce superior quality products soon paid off when his outboard motor won first place in the Miami-Nassau powerboat race in 1940 – beating all other competitors including well-known brands like Johnson Motors. This victory marked the beginning of Mercury Marine's success story as it gained recognition as one of the top manufacturers of outboard motors. In addition to winning races on water bodies around the world, Mercury also made significant contributions to World War II efforts by supplying motors used on US Navy vessels. Innovations have always been at the core of Mercury Marine's operations since its inception. In 1956 they introduced automatic oil injection which eliminated pre-mixing fuel with oil – making boating easier for customers while improving engine performance. They continued this trend by introducing several groundbreaking technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) engines that improved fuel economy and reduced emissions; Verado FourStroke Outboards - offering unmatched power-to-weight ratio; Zeus Propulsion System - providing enhanced control and maneuverability to boats; and the recently introduced V12 Verado - a high-performance outboard engine with unmatched power and torque. Apart from propulsion systems, Mercury Marine also offers a wide range of accessories such as gauges, controls, steering systems, and propellers. They have partnered with other leading brands in the industry to provide customers with complete boating solutions that meet their specific needs. One of the key factors behind Mercury Marine's success is its dedication to research and development (R&D). The company has invested heavily in R&D over the years – employing thousands of engineers who work tirelessly to develop innovative products that set new standards in the industry. This commitment to innovation has resulted in numerous patents for their technologies which have contributed significantly to their competitive edge. In addition to product innovation, Mercury Marine also prioritizes sustainability in its operations. The company recognizes its responsibility towards preserving marine environments for future generations. Therefore, they strive to minimize their environmental impact through responsible manufacturing practices and by continually improving engine efficiency and reducing emissions. Mercury Marine also takes pride in supporting local communities where it operates through various initiatives such as sponsoring youth programs focused on water safety education, conservation efforts aimed at protecting marine life habitats, among others. Today, Mercury Marine is a global brand with production facilities across Europe, Asia-Pacific region, North America, South America & Caribbean regions serving customers from over 100 countries worldwide. Their extensive distribution network ensures customers can access their products easily wherever they are located around the world. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's journey from Carl Kiekhaefer's small garage workshop in Cedarburg Wisconsin back in 1939 to becoming one of the most successful manufacturers of marine propulsion systems globally is nothing short of remarkable. The company's unwavering commitment to quality products backed by continuous innovations has been instrumental not only for its growth but also for shaping modern-day boating experiences worldwide. With an eye on sustainability coupled with an unrelenting drive for excellence, Mercury Marine is poised to remain a leader in the marine industry for years to come.