Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has been an integral part of Freeport, Illinois for over 80 years. The company’s roots in the community can be traced back to its founding in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer. Kiekhaefer was a skilled engineer and businessman who had previously worked for Evinrude Motors before deciding to start his own company. He purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing plant in Cedarburg, Wisconsin and renamed it Mercury Outboard Motors. However, due to labor disputes and other challenges at the Wisconsin location, Kiekhaefer decided to move the company’s operations to Freeport in 1940. The decision to relocate Mercury Marine's headquarters and production facilities to Freeport proved beneficial for both the company and the city. At that time, Freeport was facing economic hardships caused by the Great Depression and needed new industries to boost its local economy. With support from local officials and financial incentives from the city government, Mercury Marine quickly became one of Freeport's largest employers. The initial success of Mercury Marine can be attributed partly to Kiekhaefer’s innovative approach towards outboard motors production. He introduced advanced technologies such as electroplating processes which improved motor performance while also reducing costs. This allowed Mercury Outboards to become more affordable than competitors' products without compromising on quality. During World War II, demand for outboard motors increased significantly as they were used by military vessels for transportation purposes. Taking advantage of this opportunity, Mercury expanded its production capacity and secured contracts with various branches of armed forces including Navy Seabees (construction battalions) and Army Engineers Corps. After WWII ended, recreational boating gained popularity among Americans leading many people seeking leisure activities after years of war efforts being away from home or having families who served overseas during times like these when men/women returned home; veterans looked toward boating/fishing/hunting as a way to reconnect with loved ones and enjoy the great outdoors. Mercury Marine continued to innovate and expand its product line in the post-war years. In 1946, it introduced its first four-cylinder outboard motor, which was more powerful and efficient than previous models. This allowed Mercury Outboards to compete with larger companies like Evinrude and Johnson for market share. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury Marine experienced tremendous growth as recreational boating became increasingly popular among Americans. The company constantly improved its products by incorporating new technologies such as aluminum casting for lightweight yet durable motors. In addition to expanding its production capabilities, Mercury also focused on building strong relationships within the community of Freeport. It provided employment opportunities for local residents while also supporting various civic organizations through donations and sponsorships. The company's success not only benefited itself but also contributed significantly to Freeport's economy. In 1971, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine from Carl Kiekhaefer’s family after his passing in 1983. Under Brunswick’s ownership, Mercury continued to thrive as one of the world's leading manufacturers of marine engines. Over the years, Mercury has expanded beyond outboard motors into other segments of the marine industry such as sterndrive propulsion systems and inflatable boats. It has also invested heavily in research & development, resulting in advanced technologies like fuel injection systems that improve engine performance while reducing emissions. Today, Mercury Marine remains an important part of Freeport's economy with over 4 million square feet of manufacturing facilities spread across multiple locations within the city. The company employs more than 2,000 people directly at these facilities along with thousands more indirectly through suppliers and distributors located throughout Illinois. The relationship between Mercury Marine and Freeport is a testament to how businesses can positively impact their surrounding communities when they prioritize innovation, quality products/services along with social responsibility initiatives aimed at giving back locally where they operate. The company's success has not only brought economic growth to Freeport but also provided opportunities for residents to build fulfilling careers. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s history in Freeport is one of resilience, innovation, and community involvement. From its humble beginnings in 1939 to its current position as a global leader in the marine industry, the company has remained committed to its roots in this small Illinois city. As it continues to grow and evolve, Mercury Marine will undoubtedly remain an important part of Freeport's history for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines, propellers, and other boating accessories. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, the company has grown to become one of the most well-known names in the marine industry. The early years of Mercury Marine were marked by innovation and determination. Kiekhaefer had a passion for engineering and a drive to create better-performing products than what was currently on the market. He started with an outboard motor that he designed himself, which quickly gained popularity due to its superior speed and reliability. In 1946, Mercury released their first production model outboard motor - the Thunderbolt Four - revolutionizing the boating industry with its lightweight design and efficient performance. This success led to further expansion into new product lines such as stern drives and recreational boats. Over time, Mercury Marine continued to push boundaries with advancements in technology and design. In 1957 they introduced the Mark series of engines which featured automatic shifting capabilities while still maintaining high speeds. In 1961 they launched their first V-6 engine for recreational use, setting a new standard for powerboats. Throughout its history, Mercury has also been heavily involved in competitive boat racing. From powering record-breaking speedboats to dominating professional racing circuits like Formula One Powerboat Racing Championships, Mercury's commitment to performance has been proven time and time again on both national and international stages. In addition to their focus on product development and innovation, Mercury Marine has also shown strong dedication towards environmental sustainability efforts. They have invested heavily in researching alternative fuel options for boats such as biofuels made from renewable resources like soybeans or ethanol derived from corn crops. Furthermore, they have implemented eco-friendly practices within their manufacturing processes including recycling programs for scrap metal waste generated during production as well as implementing energy-efficient technologies at their facilities. Today, Mercury continues this tradition of excellence through cutting-edge technology, state-of-the-art manufacturing processes, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. With over 75 years of experience in the industry, Mercury Marine is a trusted brand among boaters worldwide. Their product line includes outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower to over 400 horsepower, as well as stern drives and propulsion systems for both recreational and commercial use. They also offer a range of propellers designed for specific boat types and conditions. In recent years, Mercury has expanded its reach beyond just marine engines by acquiring companies such as Sea Ray Boats and Brunswick Corporation's parts business. This diversification has allowed them to offer customers a complete boating experience with top-quality boats combined with their high-performance engines. In addition to their products, Mercury Marine also provides exceptional customer support through their extensive network of dealerships around the world. Their team of trained technicians offers expert service and maintenance for all Mercury products, ensuring that customers can trust in the reliability of their engines on every trip out on the water. Furthermore, they have also established partnerships with various organizations such as the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC) and American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) to promote safe boating practices and provide educational resources for boaters. Mercury Marine's dedication towards innovation, performance excellence, environmental sustainability efforts, and providing top-notch customer support has made them an industry leader in the marine world. As they continue to evolve with new technologies and expand into different markets globally, it is clear that their legacy will endure for many more years to come.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has been an integral part of Freeport, Illinois for over 60 years. The company was first founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. It originally manufactured magnetic separators and dairy equipment. In the late 1940s, Kiekhaefer became interested in building small engines and began experimenting with outboard motors. By the early 1950s, Mercury had become a leading manufacturer of marine engines and decided to expand their operations to meet growing demand. The city of Freeport was selected as the site for the new manufacturing plant due to its central location between two major waterways – Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River. In addition, it offered access to a skilled workforce and transportation infrastructure. Construction on the Freeport facility began in 1954 with production starting in 1956. At that time, it employed around 200 people and produced approximately one outboard motor every three minutes. The plant quickly became known for its innovative technology and efficient production processes. Throughout the decades, Mercury Marine continued to grow and innovate at its Freeport location. In the mid-1960s, they introduced their popular Mercruiser sterndrive engine which revolutionized boating by providing better performance and fuel efficiency than traditional propeller-driven boats. In response to changing market demands during the oil crisis of the early 1970s, Mercury shifted their focus towards developing more fuel-efficient engines while also expanding into international markets. By this time, Mercury's presence in Freeport had grown significantly with multiple expansions taking place throughout the years including adding additional manufacturing space as well as research & development facilities. Fast forward to today - Mercury Marine is now recognized as one of world’s leading manufacturers of recreational marine propulsion systems with over $2 billion USD in annual sales revenue worldwide. Their highly advanced technologies continue to set industry standards for powerboat performance and fuel efficiency. The Freeport facility remains a cornerstone of Mercury Marine's global operations, employing over 1,200 people. It is one of the largest employers in Stephenson County and has a significant economic impact on the local community. In addition to their contributions to the boating industry, Mercury Marine is also committed to being an environmentally responsible company. They have implemented eco-friendly practices in their manufacturing processes and continue to invest in research for more sustainable solutions. Overall, Mercury Marine's history in Freeport showcases how a small business with innovative ideas can grow into a global leader while remaining rooted in its community. Their commitment to innovation, quality products, and environmental responsibility has solidified their position as an industry leader while also positively impacting the local economy.

Located in the northwest corner of Illinois, Freeport is a charming city with a rich history and a promising future. Founded in 1835, Freeport was named for its location on the banks of the Pecatonica River where it served as an important stop along the Galena-Chicago stagecoach route. Over time, Freeport has transformed from a small trading post into a bustling industrial center and now boasts a diverse economy, vibrant community, and picturesque downtown. Freeport's early years were marked by rapid growth due to its strategic location and access to transportation routes such as the river and railroad. In fact, by 1850, it had become one of the largest cities in northern Illinois. The arrival of railroads not only facilitated trade but also brought new industries to town such as furniture manufacturing which became one of Freeport's leading industries in the late 19th century. The influence of these early industries can still be seen today through architecture like the historic Rawleigh House built by William Wrigley Jr., founder of Wrigley gum company who started his career at Rawleigh Manufacturing Company located in Freeport. The city also saw significant growth during this period with many beautiful homes being built including Victorian mansions that still stand today. In addition to industry, agriculture played an important role in shaping Freeport's development. As farming practices evolved throughout the 19th century, so did agricultural production which led to increased prosperity for farmers and businesses alike. Today, agriculture remains an essential part of Freeport's economy with corn and soybean fields surrounding much of the city. However, like many other rust belt cities across America during this time period; Freeport experienced economic downturns caused by shifts in global markets resulting in factory closures and job loss. But despite these challenges faced over several decades – some citizens refer to this era as "the dark days" – resilience prevailed within its residents as they worked together to rebuild and revitalize their beloved city. One of the most significant revitalization projects in Freeport's history was the creation of "The Meadows," a multi-million dollar development that transformed an abandoned industrial site into vibrant retail space. This project not only brought new businesses and jobs back to the area but also provided a much-needed boost for community morale. The success of this project has sparked further redevelopment efforts throughout Freeport, including initiatives to renovate historic buildings downtown and create more green spaces for residents to enjoy. Today, Freeport continues to be a hub for industry and commerce with major employers such as Honeywell Aerospace, Newell Brands, and FHN Memorial Hospital providing jobs for thousands of people. In recent years, the city has also seen growth in its healthcare sector with several new clinics opening up. But beyond its economic strengths, what truly sets Freeport apart is its strong sense of community. The people here are proud of their town – they support local businesses, attend community events like Pretzel City Brewfest or Music on Chicago Avenue concerts held during summer months; participate in numerous volunteer organizations dedicated to improving neighborhoods – all while maintaining a friendly atmosphere that makes visitors feel welcome from their first visit. In terms of recreation opportunities, there is no shortage in Freeport. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of scenic parks like Krape Park which offers hiking trails, fishing ponds, picnic areas and even a water park during summer months. Golfers will appreciate options like Park Hills Golf Course or Highland Springs Golf Course while those seeking cultural enrichment can visit one-of-a-kind museums such as Stephenson County Historical Museum which showcases artifacts from early settlers or explore contemporary art at ArtSpace Gallery located downtown along Main Street. Freeport's culinary scene is equally diverse offering everything from traditional Midwestern comfort food at locally owned establishments like Union Dairy (known for its homemade ice cream) –to international cuisine served by popular restaurants such as Imperial Palace or Cimino's Little Italy. The city also boasts a thriving arts community with various galleries and live performance venues including Winneshiek Playhouse, one of the oldest continuously operating community theaters in Illinois. Throughout the year, there are numerous festivals celebrating everything from Pretzels – Freeport's official snack food- to music and art making it an ideal location for visitors looking for a unique cultural experience. In conclusion, Freeport may be a small town but its big heart has proven time and time again that it is capable of overcoming challenges while embracing change. The people here value their community and take pride in its history while working towards a bright future. Whether you are looking for economic opportunities or simply seeking a welcoming place to call home, Freeport offers something special that will make you feel like part of the family.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors and marine propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who had a passion for engineering and a vision to create high-quality products for the boating industry. Over the years, Mercury Marine has become synonymous with innovation, reliability, and performance in the marine industry. The Early Years Carl Kiekhaefer started his journey in the marine industry by purchasing an outboard motor manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company in Wisconsin. He renamed it to Mercury Outboard Motors and set up his first factory on Lake Michigan's shore. In its early days, Mercury produced lightweight two-cylinder engines with aluminum housings that were more powerful than their competitors. Kiekhaefer had a keen eye for detail and believed that every component of his motors should be perfect. This attention to detail paid off as Mercury quickly gained popularity among boaters due to its superior performance and durability. Expansion & Innovation In 1940, just one year after its inception, Mercury introduced its first four-cylinder engine - the "Wizard." By 1942, they had expanded their range to include both six- and eight-cylinder engines. With each new model came innovations such as adjustable carburetors, underwater exhausts, pressure-lubricated driveshaft bearings – features that were unheard of at that time. During World War II, Mercury shifted production from recreational boats to military vessels like air-cooled generators used on PT boats. After the war ended in 1945, civilian demand for outboards surged once again. To meet this growing demand,Kiekhaefer took over bankrupt Outboard Motor Corporation (OMC) which gave him access to new technologies such as remote steering controls. Innovation continued through the decades as Mercury introduced game-changing technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI), power trim systems,and direct fuel injection (DFI). These innovations not only improved engine performance but also made them more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. Racing Legacy Mercury's success in the marine industry was further cemented by its involvement in racing. In 1957, Mercury introduced its first V-6 outboard motor – the Mark75H. This model went on to dominate powerboat racing for decades, winning countless races and setting speed records along the way. In the 1960s and 1970s, Mercury continued to push boundaries with faster and more powerful engines designed specifically for racing. The company's dedication to research and development allowed them to stay ahead of their competitors in terms of technology and performance. Partnerships & Acquisitions In addition to its own advancements, Mercury Marine has also formed partnerships with other companies over the years. In 1993, they joined forces with Brunswick Corporation - a leading manufacturer of recreational boats - which gave them access to new markets and resources. In recent years, Mercury has acquired several companies such as Attwood Corporation – a leader in marine hardware products –and MotorGuide – a manufacturer of trolling motors–further expanding their product offerings. Today & Future Outlook Mercury Marine continues to be an industry leader in innovation with a wide range of outboard motors that cater to different needs from high-performance models for racing enthusiaststo reliable engines for casual boaters. They have also expanded into other areas such as sterndrive systems, propellers,sport jet propulsion systems,and even electric propulsion technology. The company is committed towards sustainability through initiatives like using recycled materials in manufacturing processesand reducing emissions from their engines. They have received numerous awards recognizing their efforts towards environmental conservation. As we look towards the future,Mercury is investing heavilyin research and developmentto continue pushing boundariesin marine propulsion technology.They are embracing digitalization by incorporating advanced features like integrated GPS navigation into their products,to improve boating experiences. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1939. Through dedication to quality and innovation, they have established themselves as an industry leader in marine propulsion systems. With over 80 years of experience, the company continues to strive for excellence and is poised for continued success in the future.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines, parts and accessories for recreational boating and commercial marine applications. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin as Kiekhaefer Corporation. Kiekhaefer initially started the company to produce outboard motors that could go faster and last longer than existing models on the market. He began with just one employee and a small garage workshop, but his innovative designs quickly gained popularity among boaters. In 1940, the first Mercury outboard motor was introduced – the 'Wizard'. This motor had an aluminum lower unit which made it lightweight compared to other motors at the time. In addition, Kiekhaefer's attention to detail and quality control resulted in a reliable product that quickly became popular among fishermen and boat enthusiasts. During World War II, Mercury Marine shifted its focus from recreational boating to producing military equipment such as propellers for PT boats and inflatable rafts used in amphibious landings. After the war ended, Mercury returned to its roots in recreational boating with new products including racing boats equipped with high-performance engines. In 1946, Kiekhaefer changed the name of his company from Kiekhaefer Corporation to Mercury Marine - inspired by Roman god Mercury who is known for speed. The following year saw another milestone when Mercury became one of the first companies to introduce sterndrive propulsion systems (inboard/outdrive) for pleasure craft. Throughout the next few decades, Mercury continued to innovate with advancements such as power steering for large outboards (1953), automatic oil injection systems (1961), electronic ignition (1972), fuel-efficient four-stroke engines (1995), direct fuel injection technology (2004) and digital throttle & shift controls (2007). In addition to developing cutting-edge technologies, Mercury also expanded its global presence through strategic partnerships and acquisitions. In 1961, the company established a manufacturing facility in Stillwater, Oklahoma to produce sterndrives and outboard engines. In 1973, Mercury acquired its first international subsidiary - Motori Marini Mercury (Italy). Today, the company has over 6,000 employees worldwide with manufacturing facilities in several countries including China, Japan and the Netherlands. In recent years, Mercury Marine has continued to evolve with an increased focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company developed its own Clean Technology Center which focuses on developing cleaner-burning engines that meet emissions standards while also improving performance. Today, Mercury is recognized as a leader in marine propulsion technology and offers a wide range of products including outboard motors ranging from 2.5 to 600 horsepower for recreational use as well as commercial applications such as fishing boats and government vessels. The company also produces parts and accessories such as propellers, controls systems, gauges and more. With over eighty years of experience in the industry, Mercury Marine remains committed to providing high-quality products that offer superior performance while also promoting responsible boating practices. The brand's strong reputation among boaters around the world reflects their dedication to innovation, reliability and customer satisfaction.

Freeport, Illinois is a city located in Stephenson County, in the northwestern region of the state. It was officially established as a town in 1837 and has since grown into a thriving community with a rich history. The Beginnings: Early Settlements and Growth Before European settlers arrived, Freeport was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Winnebago and Potawatomi. However, it wasn't until the early 1800s that white settlers began to make their way into this area of Illinois. One of the first settlers was William "Tutty" Baker who built a cabin along Yellow Creek in what is now downtown Freeport. He was soon followed by other pioneers who established farms and businesses in the area. In 1835, land speculators Daniel S. Woodworth and William Miller purchased land from local Native American chiefs for $1.25 per acre with plans to develop it into a town. In 1836, they surveyed the land and laid out streets for what would become known as Freeport. The name "Freeport" originated from an incident during one of their surveys when Miller exclaimed "This place deserves to be called 'free port' because no man will ever have to pay anything here." And thus, Freeport became its official name. Early Economy: Agriculture and Manufacturing Agriculture played a significant role in shaping Freeport's early economy. The fertile soil attracted farmers who grew crops such as corn, wheat, oats, hay, potatoes, beans, pumpkins and more. Livestock farming also thrived with cattle being raised for dairy products or meat production. But agriculture wasn't the only industry driving economic growth in Freeport; manufacturing also played an essential role in its development. As railroads expanded across America during this time period – connecting cities across states – industries were able to transport goods faster than ever before. With its prime location, Freeport became a hub for manufacturing companies. The most prominent industries were foundries and machine shops that produced agricultural equipment such as plows, reapers, threshers and more. Growth and Development: A Booming City By the mid-1800s, Freeport's population had grown to over 1,500 people. In 1855, it was officially incorporated as a city with John Van Buren appointed as its first mayor. The city continued to grow rapidly thanks to its thriving economy and strategic location. One of the major events in Freeport's history occurred on August 27th, 1858 when Abraham Lincoln debated Stephen A. Douglas at the second of their famous debates during the U.S Senate race. This debate is known as the "Freeport Debate" and is widely considered one of the pivotal moments in American political history. In addition to politics, Freeport also played an essential role in education with notable institutions like Highland Community College established in 1962 – making it Illinois' first community college – and Aquin Catholic High School founded in 1954. Modernization: Changes Over Time The early part of the twentieth century saw significant changes for Freeport. As railroads declined due to advancements in transportation technology (such as automobiles), agriculture shifted towards meat production rather than crops. The development of new technologies also led to diversification within manufacturing industries; while some factories closed down or relocated elsewhere, others adapted by producing different products such as automobile parts or household appliances. Another notable event that shaped modern-day Freeport was World War II when many local factories converted their production lines into war-time supplies leading to increased employment opportunities – attracting workers from other states who decided to make this vibrant community their permanent home after the war ended. Today's Economy: Revitalization Efforts As with many cities across America during this time period (mid-twentieth century), downtown areas in Freeport saw a decline as businesses moved to the outskirts. However, recent revitalization efforts have transformed the city's downtown area into a thriving hub of activity once again. One such project was the creation of Lincoln-Douglas Square – a park built to commemorate the famous debate that took place in Freeport over 150 years ago. The square features statues of both Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas along with historical markers and quotes from their speeches during the debate. Additionally, new businesses and restaurants have opened up in downtown Freeport, attracting visitors from neighboring cities and states. The annual Pretzel City Brewfest has also become a popular event for locals and tourists alike, showcasing craft beers from various breweries across Illinois. In Conclusion From its humble beginnings as a small settlement to becoming an essential hub for agriculture and manufacturing industries, Freeport has overcome many challenges while maintaining its unique charm and character. Today, it continues to grow and evolve thanks to community efforts towards revitalization projects aimed at preserving its rich history while creating new opportunities for future generations. As we look towards the future, one thing is certain: Freeport will always be known as "The Pretzel City" – a symbol of strength, resilience, and progress.

Freeport, Illinois has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The city was founded in 1835 by Major John Todd, who named it "Freeport" because of its location on the free portage between the Pecatonica and Rock Rivers. In its early years, Freeport served as a major trading post for settlers heading westward on the Galena Trail. The town quickly grew with the help of industries such as lumber mills, grist mills, and tanneries. By 1840, Freeport had become one of the largest cities in northern Illinois. During this time period, Freeport also played an important role in politics. In 1858, Abraham Lincoln famously debated Stephen A. Douglas at Debate Square in downtown Freeport during their campaign for U.S. Senate. This debate became known as the second of seven historic debates between these two men and is considered a pivotal moment in American political history. The mid-1800s also saw significant growth in transportation infrastructure for Freeport with the arrival of railroads connecting it to other major cities like Chicago and Milwaukee. This allowed for further economic development and population growth within the city. However, like many other towns across America during this time period, Freeport faced challenges during both World War I and II when resources were diverted towards supporting war efforts rather than local businesses. Despite these setbacks, after WWII ended there was a resurgence of industrial growth which helped reinvigorate Freeport's economy. Today,Freeporthas a thriving economy with strong agricultural roots that still contribute significantly to its success.Major corporations such as Honeywell Aerospace Systemsand Newell Brands have established headquarters or manufacturing facilities withinthe city which continue to provide employment opportunities for residents. The cultural landscape of Freeport has also evolved over time with various ethnic groups settling into different areas around town creating unique neighborhoods such as Little Mexico and Little Vietnam. These communities have contributed to the diverse and vibrant culture of the city. In addition, Freeport is home to several notable landmarks and attractions such as the Stephenson County Historical Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from its past; Oakdale Nature Preserve, a 165-acre park with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities; and Krape Park, featuring a scenic lake, waterfalls, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Overall, Freeport's history is one of resilience and adaptability. From its early days as a trading post to its role in American politics and economic growth throughout the years,Freeporthas remained a vital hub in northern Illinois. Its rich history continues to be celebrated by locals through various festivalsand events that honor the city's heritage while looking towards its promising future.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of boat engines and marine propulsion systems, with its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. However, the company has a long and rich history in Freeport, Illinois where it was founded over 80 years ago. The story of Mercury Marine's presence in Freeport begins with an ambitious young man named Carl Kiekhaefer. In 1939, at the age of 25, Kiekhaefer purchased a small bankrupt engine manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. The company produced outboard motors for boats but had been struggling financially. Kiekhaefer saw potential in the business and renamed it to "Kiekhaefer Corporation". He worked tirelessly to turn the failing business around and by 1940 he had moved operations to his hometown of Mequon, Wisconsin. By this point, Kiekhaefer had big plans for expansion and growth. He acquired another engine manufacturing company based in Freeport known as Thorwaldsen Motor Co., which produced two-stroke engines used primarily for lawn mowers. This acquisition would prove to be crucial for Mercury Marine's future success. In 1941, just one year after acquiring Thorwaldsen Motor Co., Kiekhaefer changed the name once again to "Mercury". This new name not only reflected his love for Roman mythology but also symbolized speed and power - two qualities that would become synonymous with Mercury Marine's products. During World War II when many companies were focused on producing equipment for military use instead of consumer goods due to government contracts or shortages of materials; Mercury took advantage of their production capabilities by supplying thousands of lightweight outboard motors during this time period. After the war ended they continued producing these popular motors (both horizontally opposed twin-cylinder models dubbed “Wizard”), as well as other types such as four cylinders (twin carburetors) and six cylinders (triple carburetors). In 1946, Mercury Marine made the decision to move its operations from Mequon to a larger facility in Cedarburg. This allowed for increased production and an expansion of the product line. The company continued to grow and innovate, introducing new models such as the Mark 25 Hurricane in 1955 which was the first outboard motor with a gearshift. However, it wasn't until 1952 that Mercury established its presence in Freeport, Illinois. Kiekhaefer had purchased a large factory on South Adams Avenue which would become known as Plant #7. This plant was dedicated solely to producing two-stroke engines for lawn mowers under the brand "Mercury". By this time, Mercury had already gained recognition and success with their boat engines but Kiekhaefer saw potential in expanding into other markets. The Freeport location proved to be strategic for Mercury's growth. With easy access to transportation routes such as highways and railroads, it allowed them to efficiently distribute products across the country. Additionally, Freeport's skilled workforce provided an excellent labor pool for manufacturing operations. Throughout the following decades, Mercury Marine continued its expansion in both Fond du Lac and Freeport plants with significant investments in research & development leading up through today’s modern era where GPS-assisted navigation systems have been integrated into MercMonitor displays providing Real-time Data Analytics monitoring engine performance data being transmitted via wireless connectivity . Today, Plant #7 remains an integral part of Mercury Marine's manufacturing operations. It has undergone several upgrades over the years including expansions of facilities and additions of new technologies. While many things have changed since Carl Kiekhaefer started his journey with Cedarburg Manufacturing Company back in 1939; one thing has remained consistent - innovation at every turn. From lightweight outboard motors during World War II to state-of-the-art marine propulsion systems today; Mercury Marine has continued to push the boundaries and set new standards in the industry. In addition to its contributions in manufacturing, Mercury Marine has also been a significant contributor to the local community. The company is known for its philanthropic efforts, supporting various organizations and initiatives in Freeport and surrounding areas. In 2018, they donated $250,000 towards the construction of a new YMCA facility which provides recreation opportunities for families in the community. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Freeport spans over eight decades and continues to be an integral part of the company's success. From humble beginnings as a struggling engine manufacturer to becoming a global leader in marine propulsion systems; it is clear that Kiekhaefer's vision and determination have left a lasting impact on both Mercury Marine and Freeport as a whole. With ongoing investments into research & development, expansion of facilities, and commitment to innovation; there is no doubt that this partnership will continue to thrive well into the future.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, producing high-quality outboard and sterndrive engines for recreational and commercial boating. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has grown into a global company with a strong reputation for innovation, reliability, and performance. The company's headquarters are located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, where they have over 5 million square feet of manufacturing space. They also have operations in several other countries including Belgium, Canada, China, Mexico, and New Zealand. With over 6,000 employees worldwide and an extensive network of dealerships and service centers around the globe, Mercury Marine is able to reach customers from all corners of the world. One of the key factors that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is their commitment to research and development. The company invests heavily in technology and innovation to continuously improve their products' performance while reducing emissions and increasing fuel efficiency. Their state-of-the-art testing facilities allow them to simulate real-world conditions on land or water to ensure that each engine meets their rigorous standards before it goes into production. Mercury Marine offers a wide range of outboard engines ranging from two-stroke models with horsepower ranges between 2.5-350 HP to four-stroke models with horsepower ranges between 2.5-400 HP. These engines power boats used for fishing tournaments or leisurely cruises alike as they provide superior acceleration capabilities along with smooth handling at any speed. Their sterndrive engines are equally impressive as they combine powerful V8 engine options (with up to 600HP) with advanced technologies such as Joystick Piloting which makes docking easier than ever before by allowing precise control using just one hand. This feature has revolutionized boat handling making it accessible even for novice boaters. In addition to their standard offerings mentioned above , Mercury Marine also produces specialized products like jet drives that give fishermen and recreational boaters the ability to navigate shallow waters without worrying about propeller damage. Furthermore, their commercial division has created specialized engines for law enforcement boats, ferry services, and other commercial applications that demand reliability and high-performance capabilities. Apart from producing superior marine propulsion systems, Mercury Marine also prioritizes sustainability in all aspects of its operations. The company is committed to reducing its environmental impact by implementing eco-friendly practices throughout the manufacturing process while promoting clean boating through education campaigns that aim to raise awareness among boaters on ways they can reduce emissions and protect our waterways. Mercury Marine's dedication to excellence has been recognized by numerous awards over the years. In 2019 alone, they were awarded three Innovation Awards at the Miami International Boat Show for their VesselView Mobile App, Active Trim technology ,and Joystick Piloting Outboard system. They have also been recognized as a top employer in Wisconsin for their commitment to employee development programs and community involvement initiatives. In conclusion, Mercury Marine continues to be an industry leader in marine propulsion systems due to its commitment to innovation, quality craftsmanship ,and sustainability efforts. With a rich history spanning over eight decades since its humble beginnings as Kiekhaefer Corporation back in 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer built his first outboard motor using scrap parts - this brand has evolved into one of the most trusted names in the industry today . Whether it's powering fishing boats or luxury yachts , there is no denying that Mercury Marine plays a significant role in shaping how we experience boating today.