Mercury Marine is a company that has been deeply rooted in the history of Elmhurst, Illinois for over 60 years. What started as a small outboard motor manufacturer has now grown into one of the leading marine engine companies in the world, with its global headquarters still located in Elmhurst. The story of Mercury Marine in Elmhurst began back in 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased an old manufacturing plant on Lake Street to start his own business. At that time, Kiekhaefer was already an experienced engineer and entrepreneur, having previously worked at Evinrude Motors and successfully developed a line of magnetic separators. Kiekhaefer's initial plan was to produce magnetic separators and other industrial products at his new facility. However, he soon realized that there was a market for lightweight outboard motors for recreational boating. With this realization, Mercury Marine was born. In its early days, Mercury Marine faced tough competition from established players like Evinrude and Johnson Motors. But Kiekhaefer’s innovative designs quickly gained popularity among boaters due to their superior performance and durability. By the end of World War II, Mercury had become one of the top three outboard motor manufacturers in America. As demand for their engines grew rapidly after the war ended, Mercury needed more space to expand its operations. In 1946, they moved to a larger facility on York Road in nearby Willowbrook where they continued to manufacture high-quality engines using advanced technology. However, by 1954 it became clear that even this facility would not be enough to meet growing demand. The company decided it needed an entirely new factory which could accommodate modern production methods while also providing room for future expansion plans. Elmhurst proved to be the ideal location for this new state-of-the-art factory due to its proximity to major highways and railways as well as access to skilled labor force from the city. In 1956, Mercury Marine opened its new headquarters and factory on West Grand Avenue in Elmhurst. This new plant was a huge success for Mercury Marine and became their global headquarters which still stands today. The facility was designed to produce outboard engines from start to finish, including casting, machining, painting, assembly and testing. This allowed the company to control every aspect of production and maintain strict quality standards. In addition to manufacturing operations, the Elmhurst campus also housed research and development facilities where engineers could test new engine designs in real-life conditions at nearby Lake Michigan. This gave Mercury an advantage over its competitors by allowing them to constantly improve their products based on actual performance data. Over the years, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line beyond outboard motors into sterndrives (inboard-outboard engines), propellers and other marine accessories. The company also expanded globally with offices in Europe, Asia-Pacific region and Latin America. Today, Mercury Marine is not only a leader in marine propulsion technology but also a major contributor to the economy of Elmhurst. With over 1 million square feet of office space and manufacturing facilities spread across several buildings on its campus, it employs more than 3,000 people locally. The company has also been actively involved in supporting local communities through various initiatives such as volunteering programs for employees at local schools and organizations. It has also sponsored events like the annual "Rockin’ For A Reason" concert that raises funds for charities supported by employees. Mercury's impact on Elmhurst goes beyond just economic contributions. The company’s commitment to environmental sustainability is evident through initiatives like reducing emissions from production processes and investing in renewable energy sources such as solar panels installed on some of their buildings. In conclusion,'s history withElmhurst is deeply intertwined with each other’s growth journeys over past six decades.'s presence has not only contributed significantly towards making it a global leader in the marine industry but also played a vital role in shaping Elmhurst into a thriving community. With its continued focus on innovation and sustainability, Mercury Marine is sure to continue making waves both locally and globally for many years to come.

Introduction Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, catering to recreational, commercial and government customers around the world. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has grown to become one of the most recognized names in the boating industry. The company is known for its high-quality products, innovative technology and commitment to customer satisfaction. History In 1939, after purchasing a bankrupt engine manufacturing company named Cedarburg Manufacturing Company, Carl Kiekhaefer founded Mercury Marine with just five employees. Initially producing outboard motors as an alternative to expensive inboard engines, Mercury quickly gained popularity for its reliable and efficient products. In the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury expanded its product line to include sterndrive engines and became a major player in both recreational boating and competitive racing. Innovation Throughout its history, Mercury Marine has been at the forefront of innovation in marine propulsion systems. In the late 1940s they introduced their first four-cylinder outboard motor which was smaller yet more powerful than competing models. In later years they continued to develop new technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) for improved performance and fuel efficiency. More recently they have pioneered joystick piloting systems that make docking easier for boat owners. Acquisitions Over time Mercury Marine has acquired other companies including Quicksilver Controls Systems Ltd., Power Products LLC., Watercraft Technologies Inc., MotorGuide Holdings Inc., Valiant Boats AB among others; expanding their product offerings even further. Environmental Impact As an environmentally responsible company, Mercury Marine takes great care to produce low-emission engines that meet or exceed strict environmental regulations worldwide. They also focus on reducing waste through recycling programs at their facilities. Partnerships & Sponsorships Mercury Marine maintains partnerships with some of the biggest names in boating including Sea Ray Boats, Boston Whaler, and Bayliner. In addition to these partnerships, they are also heavily involved in sponsorships of competitive boat racing teams and events such as the Bassmaster Elite Series. Global Reach Mercury Marine has a strong global presence with operations in over 100 countries around the world. They have manufacturing facilities in the United States, Australia, China, Japan and Mexico. This allows them to provide localized support and service to customers no matter where they are located. Commitment to Customer Satisfaction Customer satisfaction is at the core of Mercury Marine's values. The company offers exceptional customer service through its network of dealers and certified technicians who are trained extensively on their products. They also offer warranties on all their products ensuring that customers can trust in the quality of their engines. Future Outlook In recent years, Mercury Marine has shown tremendous growth with increased sales revenue year after year. This trend is expected to continue as boating continues to be a popular recreational activity globally. With an eye towards innovation, environmental sustainability and customer satisfaction; it is likely that Mercury Marine will remain a leader in marine propulsion systems for many years to come. Conclusion From its humble beginnings as a small engine manufacturing company founded by Carl Kiekhaefer in Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has grown into a global powerhouse in the boating industry. Through continuous innovation, strategic partnerships and commitment to customer satisfaction; they have solidified their position as one of the most trusted names in marine propulsion systems. As we look towards the future of boating, it is clear that Mercury Marine will continue making waves with its high-quality products and dedication to excellence.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, parts and accessories. It was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. In the early years, Mercury Marine's main focus was on producing racing engines for powerboat competitions. In 1946, due to growing demands from the marine industry, Mercury Marine expanded its operations and opened a new plant in Lake Zurich, Illinois. However, this facility quickly became too small to keep up with production demands and in 1954, the company moved its headquarters to a larger location in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. Despite moving its headquarters out of Illinois, Mercury Marine continued to maintain a presence in the state through various manufacturing facilities. In 1971, it acquired an additional plant located in Waukegan which produced aluminum boats under the brand name "Sylvan." This acquisition helped expand Mercury's product line beyond just engines and into complete boat packages. In 1987, Mercury added another manufacturing facility located in Stillwater that specialized in producing propellers. This move allowed them to have better control over their supply chain and ensure high-quality products for their customers. However,in September of that same year,a major fire destroyed most of Mercury's Lake Zurich plant,reducing it to rubble.This resulted not only significant financial losses but also left hundreds of employees without jobs.In response,the company quickly relocated some production lines as well as administrative functions back to Elmhurst,Illinois where they had previously operated before moving their headquarters.It took less than three months for this temporary relocation effort at Elmhurst factory,but this proved how dedicated the company was towards restoring operations back then.The remaining part of Lake Zurich site were eventually sold off after failing attempts for reconstruction projects.Back then,this incident served as an important lesson about being prepared against unforeseen events such as natural disasters or accidents. In addition,Mercuy also established its Global Headquarters building in Fond du Lac,Wisconsin in 1989.This four-story building has since then been renovated and expanded multiple times to accommodate the company's growth. In 2003, Mercury Marine once again expanded its presence in Illinois by acquiring a manufacturing facility located in Cary. This plant became the primary location for producing MerCruiser sterndrive engines, which are used on a variety of recreational boats. Today, Mercury Marine continues to operate several facilities in Illinois including its Global Headquarters and plants in Waukegan and Cary. These facilities employ thousands of people and play an important role not only within the company but also within the local economy. Through its history, Mercury Marine has shown a commitment to innovation, quality products, and customer satisfaction – all values that have contributed to its success as a global leader in marine propulsion systems.

Elmhurst, Illinois is a vibrant and diverse suburban city located in DuPage County, just 16 miles west of downtown Chicago. With a population of approximately 46,000 people, it boasts a small-town charm with big-city amenities. From its rich history to its thriving community and strong economy, Elmhurst has much to offer both residents and visitors. History: The area that is now known as Elmhurst was first settled by European immigrants in the mid-1800s. Originally named Cottage Hill after the numerous cottages built in the area, it was later renamed Elmhurst in 1869 due to the abundance of elm trees lining its streets. The arrival of the railroad in 1881 brought significant growth and development to the town, making it an important transportation hub for goods and people traveling between Chicago and other parts of Illinois. Incorporated as a village in 1882 and eventually becoming a city in 1910, Elmhurst continued to expand throughout the early twentieth century with residential subdivisions being developed near public transportation lines. In recent years, there has been a focus on preserving historic buildings while also promoting modern developments such as new businesses and shopping centers. Community: One of Elmhurst’s greatest assets is its strong sense of community. The city offers various events throughout the year that bring residents together including parades, festivals, farmers markets, outdoor concerts, art fairs and more. One popular event is “Cruisin’ Nights”, where classic cars line up along York Street every Wednesday during summer months for car enthusiasts to admire. Education plays an important role within this tight-knit community with highly ranked schools attracting families from all over Illinois. There are nine elementary schools within District 205 serving students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade; three high schools (York Community High School being nationally recognized); two private Catholic high schools; one junior college; plus access to many renowned universities in the Chicagoland area. Recreation: Elmhurst is also home to over 20 parks, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, walking and biking trails. Wilder Park is a popular destination for families with its beautiful gardens, gazebo and splash pad. The park is also home to the Elmhurst Public Library which offers various programs and events for all ages. Another notable attraction in Elmhurst is the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art which houses one of the largest collections of jade and other hard stone carvings in North America. The museum’s exhibits showcase unique pieces from different cultures around the world including ancient China, India, Japan and Europe. Economy: Elmhurst has a strong economy with several major employers including Elmhurst Memorial Healthcare (now part of Edward-Elmhurst Health), Elmhurst College, Superior Ambulance Service Inc., H.B. Fuller Company and more. In addition to these larger companies, there are many small businesses that contribute to the city’s economic growth. The downtown area known as “City Centre” features an array of restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques and specialty stores making it a popular destination for both residents and visitors alike. Local farmers markets provide opportunities for small businesses to sell their goods while also promoting healthy living within the community. Transportation: Located just off Interstate 290 (also known as Eisenhower Expressway), getting in and out of Elmhurst is convenient for commuters heading into Chicago or surrounding suburbs. The city also has two Metra train stations providing easy access to downtown Chicago via Union Pacific West Line trains. For those who prefer public transportation within the city limits; Pace Bus operates routes throughout DuPage County including stops at both train stations making it easy for residents without cars or those looking for alternative means of transportation. Conclusion: In conclusion, Elmhurst, Illinois is a dynamic city with a rich history and strong sense of community. From its charming small-town atmosphere to its thriving economy and excellent education system, it offers the perfect balance between urban and suburban living. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to raise a family or seeking opportunities for career growth, Elmhurst has something to offer everyone. Its convenient location near Chicago also provides access to all the benefits of big-city living without sacrificing the comfort and convenience of a smaller community. With its diverse population, vibrant culture, and endless recreational activities, Elmhurst truly has something for everyone to enjoy.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, with a rich history spanning over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has become an iconic brand in the boating industry, known for its innovation, quality products, and dedication to customer satisfaction. The story of Mercury Marine begins with its founder Carl Kiekhaefer. Born in Mequon, Wisconsin in 1906, Kiekhaefer was an engineering prodigy who had a passion for tinkering with machines from a young age. After graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering, he started his career at Evinrude Motors as an engineer. However, after just two years at Evinrude Motors, Kiekhaefer became disillusioned with the company's lack of innovation and decided to start his own business. In 1939, he founded Kiekhaefer Corporation (later renamed Mercury Marine) in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Initially starting out as an independent manufacturer of magnetic separators and dairy equipment parts during World War II due to government contracts being available only to companies that supported the war effort directly; it wasn't until 1945 that Mercury Marine entered the marine engine market by purchasing Thor Outboard Motor Company. With this acquisition came Thor's flagship product – a lightweight aluminum outboard motor called "Mighty Mite." This engine would serve as a foundation for future innovations at Mercury Marine. Under Kiekhaefer’s leadership and ingenuity; Mighty Mite was redesigned into Mark series motors which were introduced between 1947-1951 on what was referred to as America's first "sport boat." Innovation continued to be at the forefront of Mercury’s success when they introduced their first four-cylinder inline outboard motor – “Thunderbolt” -in 1953. It was the first of its kind in terms of power and performance, quickly making a name for itself among boaters. The following year, Mercury introduced its famous Merc 60 – an outboard motor with a horizontal crankshaft that reduced vibration and provided smoother operation. The 1960s were a decade of growth and expansion for Mercury Marine. In 1961, they moved their headquarters from Cedarburg to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; where it remains today. This move allowed them to increase production and expand operations to meet growing demand for their products. In 1962, Mercury Marine made history by introducing the world's first six-cylinder "Tower of Power" engine - capable of reaching speeds up to 80 miles per hour. This revolutionary engine design set new standards for speed and power in the boating industry. Throughout the next few decades, Mercury continued to innovate and introduce new technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems, four-stroke engines, direct fuel injection technology (DFI), Verado supercharged four-stroke engines; all while continuously improving on existing products. In addition to technological advancements in marine engines; Mercury Marine also expanded its product line through strategic acquisitions over time including: Mariner Outboards (1976), MerCruiser sterndrive company (1985), Sea Ray Boats (1986); which are now under Brunswick Corporation’s umbrella along with other brands like Boston Whaler & Bayliner boats since acquiring OMC assets in late-1990s Today, Mercury Marine is recognized globally as one of the most trusted names in marine propulsion systems. With manufacturing facilities across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific regions; they produce more than half-million outboard motors annually utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques such as computerized numerical control machines on every step from casting aluminum alloys through final assembly/quality checks before shipment worldwide plus research/development centers located around globe working constantly towards future improvements on current lineup or introduction of new technologies. Mercury Marine's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards and accolades over the years. In 2019, they were named Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce; an organization that recognizes companies for their dedication to productivity, quality, employee relations, environmental stewardship, and community involvement. In addition to its achievements in the boating industry; Mercury Marine is also committed to giving back through various philanthropic efforts. The company supports organizations such as Fishing League Worldwide (FLW), American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) among others. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s history is a testament to its founder Carl Kiekhaefer’s vision of creating innovative products with uncompromising quality. Through strategic acquisitions and continuous advancements in technology; they have solidified their position as a leader in the marine industry. As they continue to strive towards excellence and improve upon existing products while introducing new ones; it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will remain at the forefront of innovation for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion engines, parts, and accessories. The company was founded in 1939 by engineer Carl Kiekhaefer, who began producing outboard motors in a small machine shop in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. The early years of Mercury Marine were marked by innovation and growth. Kiekhaefer's first outboard motor design featured a unique opposed twin-cylinder engine that produced more horsepower than competing models at the time. This design set the foundation for future advancements in engine technology. In the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line with new innovations such as electric starting systems and remote steering options. These advancements made boating more accessible and convenient for consumers. One of the most significant moments in Mercury Marine's history came in 1957 when they introduced their "Tower of Power" inline six-cylinder engines. These powerful motors became the standard for high-performance boats and solidified Mercury as an industry leader. In addition to developing cutting-edge technology, Mercury also focused on building relationships with boat manufacturers. They formed partnerships with companies like Boston Whaler, Sea Ray, and Bayliner to provide them with reliable power solutions for their boats. Throughout the next few decades, Mercury expanded its business globally through strategic acquisitions and partnerships. In 1986 they acquired Quicksilver Controls Systems Ltd., a British-based company specializing in electronic controls for boats. This acquisition allowed Mercury to offer advanced control systems on their products. In recent years, environmental concerns have become increasingly prevalent within the marine industry. In response to this shift towards sustainability, Mercury has invested heavily in research and development to create cleaner-burning engines while maintaining performance standards. Today,Mercury continues to innovate with technologies like Joystick Piloting System which provides effortless maneuvering at low speeds,digital throttle & shift system improves handling,wake surfing,and integrated navigation features.These advancements have made boating safer and more enjoyable for consumers. Mercury Marine has also expanded its product line beyond outboard motors to include inboard engines, sterndrives, propellers, and other marine accessories. They also offer a range of services such as boat maintenance and repair training programs. In 2018, Mercury celebrated its 80th anniversary with over 7,000 employees worldwide and manufacturing facilities in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China,and Belgium. The company continues to be at the forefront of innovation in the recreational marine industry while maintaining a commitment to quality products and customer satisfaction.

Elmhurst, Illinois is a city located in DuPage County, about 16 miles west of Chicago. It has a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century and has played an important role in the development of the state of Illinois. The first settlers arrived in what is now Elmhurst around 1836. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and Kickapoo nations. However, with the Indian Removal Act of 1830 and subsequent treaties, these tribes were forcibly relocated to reservations further west. In 1843, Henry Glos purchased land from the government for $1.25 per acre and established a farm where he raised cattle and grew crops. This farm became known as "Glos' Station" and served as a stop on stagecoach routes between Chicago and Galena. In 1849, another prominent figure in Elmhurst's history arrived – Colonel Thomas Bryan. He purchased land adjacent to Glos' Station with plans to build a town. He named it after his beloved wife's hometown of Elmhurst, New York. With its prime location along major transportation routes such as the Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (now known as Union Pacific West Line), Elmhurst quickly became an important commercial center for nearby farmers. The railroad brought new opportunities for growth and prosperity to this small farming community. By the late 1800s, many businesses had been established in Elmhurst including mills, lumber yards, brick factories, blacksmith shops, general stores,and hotels. In addition to these businesses,a handful of churches also sprung up during this time period which reflected a growing religious diversity within the community. One significant event that shaped Elmhurst's history was when it became home to one of only two tuberculosis sanitariums in all of Illinois at that time.The facility opened its doors in May 1912 and operated until 1970. It was known as the "Elmhurst Tuberculosis Sanitarium" and provided treatment to patients from all over the state. Another pivotal moment in Elmhurst's history came in 1925 when it officially became a city.The population had grown significantly, reaching almost 7,000 residents. With this growth came an increase in infrastructure development such as paved streets, sidewalks,and streetlights. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, Elmhurst experienced economic hardship like many other cities across the country. However, with the onset of World War II, new job opportunities were created at nearby military bases which helped revive the economy. The post-war years brought further development to Elmhurst including suburbanization and expansion of its borders. In addition to residential areas being built, several institutions of higher education also opened their doors in Elmhurst during this time period – most notably Elmhurst College (now known as Elmhurst University). Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Elmhurst continued to grow both economically and culturally.In recent decades,the city has undergone significant revitalization efforts including downtown redevelopment projects that have made it a popular destination for shopping,dining,and entertainment. Today,Ellhurst boasts a population of over 45,000 residents and is considered one of Chicago's western suburbs.It maintains its small-town charm while offering residents access to big-city amenities.With its strong sense of community pride,a thriving economy,and rich history,it is no wonder why so many people choose to call Elmhurst home. In conclusion,the history of Ellhurst,is deeply intertwined with that of Illinois itself.From humble beginnings as a small farming community,to becoming an important commercial center,to weathering economic hardships – Ellhurst has continuously evolved throughout its existence.Today,it stands as a vibrant city with a bright future ahead thanks to its dedicated citizens who continue to shape its legacy.

Elmhurst, Illinois is a small city located in DuPage County, just 16 miles west of Chicago. The area was originally inhabited by the Potawatomi Native American tribe until European settlers arrived in the early 1830s. The first permanent settler in Elmhurst was Gerry Bates, who built a log cabin near Salt Creek in 1836. He named the settlement Cottage Hill after his hometown in New York. In the following years, more pioneers arrived and established farms and businesses along what is now known as North Avenue. In 1842, Walter Talcott purchased land from Bates and laid out plans for a town site on both sides of St. Charles Road. He renamed the village Elmhurst because of its lush elm trees and rolling hills. One of Elmhurst's earliest industries was quarrying limestone from nearby quarries to be used for building materials such as bridges and buildings. This industry continued to thrive throughout the late 19th century and into the early 20th century. In 1857, with a growing population in need of education, Thomas Bryan donated two acres of land for a schoolhouse which became known as "Bryan School." It was later replaced by Hawthorne Elementary School which still stands today. The arrival of railroads further spurred growth in Elmhurst during this time period. The Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (now part of Union Pacific) extended its line through town in 1849 followed by other railroad companies such as Chicago & Pacific Railway (later acquired by Baltimore & Ohio) and Chicago Great Western Railway. By the turn of the century, Elmhurst had become an established community with its own newspaper – The Independent – founded in 1901; several churches; parks; stores selling groceries,furniture,and hardware; blacksmith shops;canning factories;dairies producing milk,butter,and cheese;nurserymen;saloons;hotels;and a public library. The early 20th century saw significant development and growth in Elmhurst. In 1908, the city was officially incorporated with a population of just over 1,000 residents. The first high school was built in 1910 and by the end of World War I, several new subdivisions were established to accommodate the growing population. In the following decades, Elmhurst continued to develop as a suburban community with an emphasis on education and family-friendly neighborhoods. In the 1920s, Elmhurst College was founded as a private liberal arts institution and is still thriving today. During World War II, many factories in Elmhurst produced equipment for the war effort which brought economic prosperity to the city. After the war ended, suburbanization accelerated as returning soldiers started families and sought affordable housing outside of Chicago's crowded urban areas. Today, Elmhurst is known for its beautiful tree-lined streets filled with historic homes from various architectural styles including Victorian, Queen Anne Revival,and Prairie School designs. The city also boasts numerous parks and recreational facilities such as Wilder Park Conservatory & Gardens and Eldridge Park Pool. Elmhurst has also become a hub for commerce with several shopping centers including Yorktown Center Mall which opened in 1968. Additionally,the City Centre area features boutique shops,dining options,and entertainment venues that attract both locals and visitors alike. Throughout its history, Elmhurst has maintained strong ties to its past while embracing progress and growth. It continues to be a vibrant community that values education,culture,family,and quality of life – making it an attractive place to live for generations to come.

Mercury Marine is one of the most well-known and respected names in the boating industry, with a rich history that dates back to 1939. The company has become synonymous with quality, reliability, and innovation in the world of marine engines. While Mercury Marine is based in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, its history also includes a significant chapter in Elmhurst, Illinois. The story of Mercury Marine's presence in Elmhurst began when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased the bankrupt Cedarburg Manufacturing Company (CMC) on Lake Michigan's western shore. CMC had been producing outboard motors since 1922 but was struggling financially due to poor management. Kiekhaefer saw potential in this struggling company and relocated it to his hometown of Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Under Kiekhaefer's leadership, CMC began producing high-quality outboard motors that quickly gained popularity among boaters. In 1940, he changed the name to Mercury Outboards and moved production from Cedarburg to Oshkosh, Wisconsin. By 1941, Mercury Outboards had become a household name for boat enthusiasts across America. As World War II broke out, demand for recreational boats declined drastically while demand for military vessels increased significantly. To keep up with this shift in demand and support the war effort more effectively, Kiekhaefer opened a new manufacturing plant – Plant #3 –in Chicago Heights near Elmhurst. This move proved critical as it allowed Mercury Outboards to continue production during wartime efficiently. After World War II ended and recreational boating became popular again post-war prosperity led many people buying boats equipped with powerful automotive V8 engines used by street racers at drag strips around Chicago’s suburbs such as Oswego Dragway or Great Lakes Dragaway just over an hour away from Elmhurst where they would later compete against Chrysler powered boats running racing fuel which mercury did not offer until 1961. To stay competitive, Kiekhaefer decided to enter the automotive engine market and began producing high-performance engines for boats in 1951. In 1952, Mercury Outboards became Mercury Marine, reflecting its expansion into the marine industry beyond just outboard motors. The company continued to grow and thrive under Kiekhaefer's leadership, with a reputation for quality products and innovative technology. In addition to producing powerful engines for recreational boats, they also supplied engines for racing events like hydroplane races. In the early 1960s, Mercury Marine moved its headquarters from Oshkosh to Fond du Lac and closed Plant #3 in Elmhurst as demand shifted back towards outboard motors instead of automotive-style boat powerplants resulting in many people losing their jobs at Plant #3 or being forced to relocate over three hours further north closer to Lake Winnebago but some employees stayed on at other nearby facilities including one on York Road (Rt-83) near Oak Brook Mall which was dismantled around 1976 leaving only a foundry behind which later produced aluminum castings that were shipped up north still used today by mercury marine plants even after it too permanently shut down sometime between late summer of '82 & late winter/early spring '83 due mainly because technology had become more advanced making outdated machines obsolete forcing companies such as mercury marine who could not afford newer ones go bankrupt if they wanted new machine tooling made from computer controlled machining centers costing $100K+ each so most businesses either downsized or relocated overseas where labor is lower paid. However, despite this closure, Mercury Marine's legacy lives on in Elmhurst through its former employees who fondly remember their time working there. Many former workers have formed an alumni group known as "Mercury Legends" that meets regularly to reminisce about their experiences and keep the history of the company alive. Today, while no longer operating in Elmhurst, Mercury Marine continues to be a major player in the boating industry. The company has expanded its product line to include not only outboard motors but also sterndrive and inboard engines, as well as boat accessories like gauges and controls. In 2016, it was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, one of the world's largest marine equipment manufacturers. In recent years, Mercury Marine has also made significant strides towards sustainability and environmental responsibility. They have developed fuel-efficient engines that meet strict emissions standards while still providing powerful performance. Additionally, they have implemented sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes and support various conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations like The Nature Conservancy. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Elmhurst is a testament to the company's resilience and adaptability over the years. From its humble beginnings at Plant #3 during World War II to becoming a global leader in marine technology today, Mercury Marine has left an indelible mark on both the boating industry and the community of Elmhurst. Its legacy lives on through its former employees' memories and continues to thrive through its commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems and engines. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer and has since grown to become one of the largest producers of recreational boat engines in the world. With over 6,000 employees globally, Mercury Marine continues to innovate and provide high-quality products for boaters worldwide. Mercury Marine's history can be traced back to 1930 when founder Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company. He initially intended to use the factory space for his growing magnetic separators business, but he soon became interested in developing smaller horsepower motors for boats. In 1939, Kiekhaefer introduced his first outboard motor – the "Lightning", which had six horsepower and could reach speeds up to 20 miles per hour. This innovative product caught the attention of many boaters and paved the way for future success. Throughout the years, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line with new models and technologies including stern drives (inboard-outboard motors), propellers made from stainless steel instead of aluminum alloy, electronic fuel injection systems, four-stroke engines with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, joystick piloting systems for easier maneuverability on larger boats, among others. The company also expanded its global presence by establishing manufacturing facilities in countries such as Belgium, China , Mexico , New Zealand , Japan , Brazil , Canada , South Africa among others . Today it has operations in more than twenty countries around the world . One significant milestone for Mercury Marine was their partnership with Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) –a leading global manufacturer of recreational products– which began in 1961. This collaboration allowed both companies' growth opportunities through shared resources such as technology development and distribution channels. Moreover,Mercury Marine's commitment towards environmental sustainability is evident through their continuous efforts towards reducing emissions and waste in their manufacturing processes. In 2008, the company received the Green Masters Award from Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council for their efforts towards sustainability. In addition to its commitment to environmental sustainability, Mercury Marine also focuses on creating a positive impact in the communities where it operates. The company has been involved in various charitable initiatives such as supporting local schools, sponsoring community events, and partnering with organizations that focus on marine conservation. Mercury Marine's success can be attributed not only to its innovative products but also to its strong focus on customer satisfaction. The company provides excellent after-sales service through its extensive network of dealers and service centers worldwide. This dedication to customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards over the years, including recognition from J.D Power for "Highest Customer Satisfaction with Outboard Engines". Furthermore,Mercury Marine is constantly investing in research and development to stay ahead of industry trends and provide customers with cutting-edge technology. They have collaborations with leading universities such as MIT and University of Wisconsin-Madison, which allows them access to top-notch facilities and expertise. Looking towards the future,Mercury Marine continues to expand into new markets while maintaining a strong presence in traditional boating regions like North America and Europe. Their recent partnership with Sea Ray Boats –a leading manufacturer of recreational boats– further solidifies their position as an industry leader. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's long history is a testament to their commitment towards excellence in providing high-quality marine propulsion systems and engines. Through continuous innovation, sustainable practices,and dedication towards customer satisfaction,the company has established itself as a global leader in the boating industry. As they continue to push boundaries and set new standards,it is clear that Mercury Marine will remain at the forefront of this ever-evolving industry for years to come.