Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoons, based in Moline, Illinois. Founded in 1957 by brothers Willis and Bob Willy, Crest Pontoons has grown from a small family business to one of the largest pontoon manufacturers in the world. The company's success can be attributed to its commitment to quality and innovation, as well as its deep roots in the city of Moline. The story of Crest Pontoons begins with two brothers who had a passion for boating. In 1956, Willis "Willy" Willey was working at John Deere Harvester Works in East Moline when he decided to build himself a boat. He enlisted his brother Bob's help and together they built their first pontoon boat using scrap metal from John Deere. They were so pleased with the result that they decided to start building boats commercially. In 1957, the brothers established Crest Marine Inc., naming it after their hometown of Cresco, Iowa. Initially operating out of an old chicken coop behind their house on Campbell's Island Road in East Moline, they produced only three boats per week. However, it wasn't long until demand for their pontoons grew beyond what they could produce at this location. In 1960, they purchased a new factory site on Avenue L near downtown Moline and moved operations there. This move allowed them to increase production significantly and expand their product line. During this time period, pontoons were becoming increasingly popular among recreational boaters due to their stability and versatility on the water. This led Crest Marine Inc. to become one of the first companies dedicated solely to manufacturing pontoon boats. As demand for their products continued to grow throughout the 1960s and into the 1970s, Crest Marine Inc. became known as "the Cadillac" of pontoon boats due to its reputation for quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. The company continued to expand its product line, offering boats in various sizes and configurations to meet the diverse needs of their customers. In 1973, Crest Marine Inc. was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), a leading manufacturer of outboard motors at the time. This partnership provided Crest with access to new technologies and resources, allowing them to further improve their products. However, in 1984 OMC filed for bankruptcy and closed many of its operations, including Crest Pontoons. It seemed like the end for this beloved local business until it was purchased by Brunswick Corporation in 1986. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crest Pontoons experienced a rebirth and expansion unlike ever before. In 1995, they moved into a new state-of-the-art production facility on John Deere Road in Moline. This move allowed them to increase production even more while also improving efficiency and quality control processes. Throughout the years under Brunswick's ownership, Crest Pontoons has continued to innovate and evolve its product line with features such as plush seating options, luxurious amenities like built-in grills and refrigerators, high-performance engines for water sports enthusiasts, and much more. Today, Crest Pontoons is one of the largest manufacturers of pontoon boats globally with dealerships all over North America as well as Australia and Europe. Despite their global reach, Crest Pontoons remains deeply rooted in Moline where it all began over six decades ago. The company continues to provide jobs for hundreds of employees from the surrounding communities while also supporting local businesses through partnerships and sponsorships. Furthermore,Crest Pontoons is committed to giving back to Moline through various community initiatives such as sponsoring events like River Roots Live music festival or donating pontoons for use during city events on Mississippi Riverfront Park - showcasing their commitment towards enhancing recreational opportunities within Moline's riverfront area that resonates well beyond just boating enthusiasts. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has a long and rich history in Moline, Illinois. From its humble beginnings in an old chicken coop to becoming one of the largest pontoon manufacturers in the world, the company has remained true to its roots while adapting and evolving with changing times. With a commitment to quality and innovation, as well as strong ties to their local community, it is no surprise that Crest Pontoons continues to be a leader in the boating industry today.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats, known for their innovative designs, high-quality craftsmanship, and exceptional performance on the water. Founded in 1957 by Charles William Heaton II in Owosso, Michigan, Crest has been a pioneer in the boating industry for over six decades. The company's story began with an idea to create a boat that could provide families with an enjoyable day out on the water. Heaton had noticed that traditional flat-bottomed aluminum boats were not suitable for leisure activities such as fishing or cruising. So he set out to design a boat that would offer both stability and comfort. Heaton's vision came to life when he built his first prototype of a pontoon boat using steel barrels welded together and mounted onto two logs. The result was impressive; the boat provided ample space, stability, and easy maneuverability – all essential qualities for family fun on the water. After receiving positive feedback from friends and family who experienced his invention firsthand, Heaton founded Crest Marine Inc., which quickly became one of the most respected names in pontoons. Over time, the company grew exponentially thanks to its commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. Today Crest Pontoons is still headquartered in Owosso but has expanded its reach globally with dealers across North America as well as Europe. Their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility spans over 200,000 square feet and uses cutting-edge technology to produce top-of-the-line pontoons that meet or exceed industry standards. One of the key factors contributing to Crest's success is their dedication to quality materials and construction techniques. Every pontoon is crafted using marine-grade aluminum alloys which are lighter yet stronger than traditional materials used by other manufacturers. This makes Crest Pontoon boats more fuel-efficient without compromising durability or safety. In addition to their superior construction methods, each model undergoes rigorous testing before hitting production lines at their factory. From structural integrity tests to water resistance and stability, Crest Pontoons ensures that every boat meets their high standards. But what truly sets Crest apart from other pontoon manufacturers is their commitment to innovation. The company continues to push the boundaries of design and functionality with each new model they release. From advanced hull designs to cutting-edge technology integration, Crest Pontoons offers a range of features that cater to different needs and preferences. For instance, their CPT (Crest Performance Tubes) series boasts larger diameter pontoons for added buoyancy and increased stability, making them ideal for rougher waters. On the other hand, their Waveglider triple tube hulls provide superior performance in calmer waters with smoother handling and higher speeds. In addition to performance-focused features, Crest also offers luxurious amenities such as premium sound systems, plush seating options, built-in bars and grills, swim platforms with ladders, LED lighting packages – all designed for an unforgettable boating experience. Moreover, Crest understands the importance of customization in today's market. Customers can choose from a variety of colors and patterns for upholstery as well as flooring options like vinyl or marine-grade carpeting. They can also opt for various add-ons such as wakeboard racks or ski tow bars depending on their specific needs. Crest has not only made strides in pontoon design but has also prioritized environmental sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices throughout its manufacturing process. This includes using recyclable materials whenever possible and minimizing waste production. The company also actively participates in conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations like Keep America Beautiful's Great American Cleanup Program. As part of this initiative, volunteers across the country work together to clean up litter along shorelines where boats are commonly used. Aside from producing top-quality boats and promoting conservation efforts within the industry, Crest Pontoons is committed to giving back to its local community through various philanthropic initiatives. These include sponsoring local events such as charity fishing tournaments or donating boats to organizations that offer recreational activities for individuals with disabilities. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has established itself as a game-changer in the pontoon industry. With its rich history of innovation, commitment to quality and sustainability, and dedication to customer satisfaction, it's no surprise that Crest is a top choice among boaters worldwide. Their constant drive for improvement ensures that they will continue to be at the forefront of pontoon design and manufacturing for years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a renowned boat manufacturing company that was founded in Moline, Illinois in 1957. The company has been producing high-quality pontoons for over six decades and has become a leader in the marine industry. The history of Crest Pontoons can be traced back to the early 1950s when Merle Haugland, a farmer from Moline, had an idea to build a pontoon boat after seeing one being used on the Mississippi River. He wanted to create something that would allow people to enjoy boating without having to worry about rough waters or shallow areas. Haugland approached his friend Paul Pedersen, who was an engineer at John Deere Tractor Company, with his idea. Together they designed and built their first prototype pontoon boat using aluminum tubes welded together and mounted on top of two steel barrels filled with foam for buoyancy. The first Crest Pontoon boat was launched on July 4th, 1957 on Lake George near Davenport, Iowa. It had four benches and could accommodate up to eight people. This innovative design quickly gained popularity among recreational boaters looking for a stable and versatile watercraft. In 1962, Haugland and Pedersen officially formed Crest Marine Inc., establishing its headquarters in Moline, Illinois. They continued to refine their designs and introduce new models as demand for their pontoons grew. In the late 1960s, Crest Pontoons introduced its signature "Golden Jumbo" series which featured larger boats with more horsepower capabilities. This series became extremely popular among fishermen and water sports enthusiasts due to its increased speed and power. Throughout the following decades, Crest Pontoons expanded its product line by introducing various models such as fishing pontoons with livewells and rod holders or luxurious party barges equipped with entertainment systems. In the early 2000s, Crest Pontoons underwent several ownership changes and relocated its headquarters to Owosso, Michigan. However, in 2011 the company returned to its roots and moved back to Moline, Illinois. Today, Crest Pontoons continues to be a leader in pontoon boat manufacturing with a wide range of models designed for various purposes. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design that has made it one of the most recognized brands in the marine industry. In addition to its production facility in Moline, Crest Pontoons also has dealerships across the United States and Canada. It continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its roots as an American-made brand founded in Moline, Illinois over six decades ago.

Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County on the banks of the Mississippi River. It is part of a metropolitan area known as the Quad Cities, which also includes Davenport and Bettendorf in Iowa, and Rock Island and East Moline in Illinois. The history of Moline dates back to 1817 when Colonel George Davenport established a trading post on the site. The name "Moline" comes from the French word for millstone, which reflects its early industrial roots as a milling community. In 1843, John Deere relocated his plow manufacturing business to Moline, solidifying its place as an important center for agriculture equipment production. Today, Moline has evolved into a thriving city with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare services, education institutions and tourism. Its population of over 40,000 residents reflects this diversity with people from different cultural backgrounds living together harmoniously. One of the most notable landmarks in Moline is the John Deere Pavilion and World Headquarters. This impressive complex showcases not only the history of John Deere but also their latest innovations in farming technology. It attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to learn about one of America's most iconic brands. Another major attraction in Moline is Downtown Moline Centre (DMC), which serves as both an entertainment district and commercial hub for businesses big and small alike. With its outdoor festivals like Bass Street Landing Sunset Concert Series or events such as Christmas celebrations at Bass Street Plaza during winter months – there's always something exciting happening downtown! Additionally, DMC offers unique shopping experiences with local boutiques alongside popular national retailers. For those interested in art and culture, there are several options available including Figge Art Museum featuring works by Monet among others; German American Heritage Center & Museum highlighting contributions made by German immigrants; Colonel George Davenport House showcasing life during pioneer times through restored rooms furnished with period pieces. Moline is also home to several educational institutions, including Western Illinois University-Quad Cities and Black Hawk College. These institutions provide a diverse range of academic programs and contribute greatly to the city's economy by attracting students from all over the country. The city has invested in developing its riverfront area with projects such as The Bend, a mixed-use development that includes apartments, retail spaces, and restaurants. This has not only enhanced the beauty of Moline but also created more attractions for residents and visitors alike. In terms of transportation, Moline offers easy access to other parts of the Quad Cities through public transit systems like MetroLINK buses and Channel Cat Water Taxi. Additionally, it is served by the Quad City International Airport which connects passengers to major cities across the United States. One unique aspect of Moline is its commitment to sustainability and green living. The city has implemented various initiatives such as recycling programs, bike-sharing services, and community gardens to promote eco-friendly practices among its residents. Moline also takes pride in its parks system which provides recreational opportunities for people of all ages. Riverside Park along the Mississippi River features walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields and hosts events like "Riverside Live!" concert series during summer months; while Ben Butterworth Parkway offers scenic views for joggers or bikers looking for a tranquil escape from daily routines! Overall,Moline boasts a strong sense of community spirit with active citizen involvement in various organizations working towards improving quality of life within their neighborhoods – making it an ideal place for families looking for safe environments where they can raise children while enjoying nature close at hand! In conclusion,Moline may have begun as a small milling village but today stands tall as one of America's most dynamic cities – offering something special everyone can enjoy! Whether you're interested in history or art & culture; modern entertainment venues or outdoor activities; education options or job prospects – this vibrant Midwestern metropolis has it all! So, come visit Moline and experience the charm of this unique city for yourself. It's a place you'll never want to leave!

Crest Pontoons is a renowned manufacturer of high-quality pontoons and boats, with a rich history that dates back to over 60 years. The company was founded in 1957 by James T. Clark, who was an avid boater himself. His passion for the water and his entrepreneurial spirit led him to start Crest Pontoons in Owosso, Michigan. At the time of its inception, pontoon boats were considered basic vessels used primarily for fishing or utility purposes. However, James Clark saw potential in these simple craft and envisioned creating luxurious and comfortable pontoons that could be used for leisure activities such as cruising, partying, and sunbathing. The early days of Crest Pontoons were challenging as it faced stiff competition from established boat manufacturers. However, with determination and hard work combined with a drive for innovation and quality craftsmanship, the company slowly gained recognition within the industry. In 1960, three years after its founding, Crest introduced its first model – the "Buccaneer" pontoon boat. This sleek design featured an all-aluminum deck construction which made it lightweight yet strong enough to accommodate more passengers than any other pontoon on the market at that time. As demand for their products grew steadily throughout the 1960s and into the early 1970s,Crest continued to develop new models with improved features such as adjustable lounge seatsand wrap-around seating options. These innovations set Crest apart from other manufacturers who were still producing traditional square-shaped pontoons. In addition to innovative designs,Crest also focused on ensuring customer satisfaction through exceptional service.Their commitment to providing top-notch support helped them build lasting relationships with their customers.In fact,in those early days,the majority of their sales came from word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers. Bythe mid-1970s,Crest had become one ofthe largestpontoonboatmanufacturersinthe worldwitha reputationfor producing high-quality and luxurious crafts. To cater to the growing demand for their products,they expanded their production facilitiesand introduced new models with more advanced features such as sound systems,swim ladders,and ski-tow bars. In 1984,Crest was acquired by a group of investors led by Gary C. VanGrunsven who took over the reins of the company.In the following years,the company underwent significant changes including relocating its headquarters to Owosso's newly constructed industrial park,to accommodate its expanding operations. Under VanGrunsven's leadership,Crest continued to push boundaries in design and quality,releasing new models that set industry standards for luxury pontoons.They also launched a line of fishing boats,dubbed "Fish Hawk,"which were equipped with specialized fishing features such as livewells and rod holders.This diversification allowed Crest Pontoons to tap into a different market segment while still maintaining their focus on luxury pontoon boats. In 1999,Crest Pontoons made another significant change when it joined forces with Maurell Products Inc.,a leading manufacturer of marine vinyl upholstery fabrics.It was then rebranded as Crest Marine LLC,and this partnership enabled themto expand their product offerings even further.Their upholstery division became known as Crest Marine Fabrics,specializing in high-quality marine-grade fabrics used not only on Crest boats but also on other popular boat brands. The early 2000s sawCrestPontoons continue to innovatewiththe introductionoftheirWaveglider™ technology.This patented system replaced traditional round aluminum tubes with U-shaped ones,resulting in improved performance,fuel efficiency,and overall stability.These advancements solidifiedCrest'spositionas an industry leaderinluxury pontoondesignsand engineering. As consumer preferences shifted towards eco-friendly options,in 2015,Crest Pontoons launched its first electric-powered pontoon boat –the "Eco-Sun Cruiser."This environmentally-conscious model was designed to reduce carbon emissions and operate silently on the water,providing a serene boating experience. Today,Crest Pontoons has a wide range of models ranging from entry-level pontoons to high-end luxury vessels.Every boat is hand-built with precision craftsmanship using top-quality materials and equipped with state-of-the-art features.Crest's continued commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction have earned them numerous industry awards,including multiple NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Awards for excellence in customer service. In 2018,Crest Pontoons once again made headlines when it became part of the Polaris Industries family,a global leader in powersports vehicles.This partnership provides Crest with more resources for research and development,and access to a wider distribution network,giving them an even stronger position in the market. With over six decades of history behind it,Crest Pontoons remains committedto providing customers with unparalleled boating experiences through innovative design,quality craftsmanship,and exceptional service. As they continue to evolve and adapt to changing consumer needs,it is safe to say that Crest will remain at the forefront of luxury pontoon manufacturing for years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of high-quality pontoons and recreational boats. The company was founded in 1957 by Bud Morris when he purchased a small boat building business in Owosso, Michigan. Initially, the company focused on manufacturing fishing boats and utility boats but soon expanded into producing pontoon boats due to their increasing popularity among boaters. In 1962, Crest introduced its first pontoon model, the "Crestliner," which quickly became a success. In the following years, Crest continued to innovate and develop new designs for its pontoons. In 1973, they introduced the first aluminum pontoon with an all-welded construction method instead of traditional rivets. This made their pontoons more durable and increased their lifespan significantly. By the late 1970s, Crest had become one of the largest manufacturers of aluminum pontoons in North America. They partnered with Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC) to expand their distribution network and reach more customers across the country. In 1991, Crest underwent another major change when it was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in marine products. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crest continued to grow and improve its product offerings while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship. In recent years, Crest has become known for pioneering innovative features such as folding hardtops on their luxury models and incorporating advanced technology like touch screen displays into their boats' consoles. Today, Crest Pontoons offers a wide range of models including fishing pontoons, luxury cruisers, performance sportboats,and more. With over six decades of experience in boat manufacturing and thousands of satisfied customers worldwide,Crest continues to be one of the most trusted names in the industry. The company's dedication to superior design and engineering has earned them numerous awards throughout their history. In 2018 alone,Crest won three NMMA Innovation Awards for their groundbreaking technologiesand designs. In addition to their commitment to quality, Crest Pontoons also places a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental responsibility. They use eco-friendly materials in their manufacturing process and have implemented initiatives to reduce waste and conserve energy. Crest's dedication to customer satisfaction is evident in every aspect of their business. From the initial design phase to the final product, each boat undergoes rigorous testing and inspection to ensure it meets the highest standards of safety, performance,and durability. In recent years,Crest Pontoons has expanded its reach globally by partnering with dealerships in Europe,Australia,and New Zealand. This has allowed themto bring their top-of-the-line pontoons and boatsto a wider audienceof boating enthusiasts around the world. As they continue to grow and innovate,Crest Pontoons remains committedto providing customers with an unforgettable boating experience that combines luxury, performance,and reliability. Their rich history of excellence serves as a testamentto their unwavering dedicationto creating superior products that exceed expectationsand push boundariesin the pontoon industry.

Moline, Illinois is a city steeped in history and rich with culture. Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Moline has played a significant role in the development of the Midwest since its founding in 1848. From its early days as a small milling town to becoming an industrial powerhouse, Moline’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and community. The area where Moline now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox nations. These tribes thrived along the riverbanks due to its fertile land for farming and abundant wildlife for hunting. However, their peaceful existence would soon be disrupted by European explorers. In 1673, French explorer Louis Jolliet and Jesuit missionary Father Jacques Marquette were among the first Europeans to explore this region. It wasn’t until almost two centuries later that permanent settlement began when John Deere arrived in 1836. Deere was a blacksmith from Vermont who had invented a revolutionary steel plow that could easily break through tough prairie soil. He set up his business near Rock Island (now part of modern-day Moline) and quickly gained popularity among farmers in need of efficient farming equipment. As more settlers arrived seeking opportunities for land ownership and employment, Moline grew into a bustling town centered around agriculture. By 1850 it became the largest wheat market in Illinois thanks to its strategic location on both land and water routes. However, it wasn’t just agriculture that drove growth in Moline; it was also home to several other industries including brewing, lumbering, boat building, brick making,and pottery production. But perhaps what put Moline on the map globally was its manufacturing industry which took off during World War I when there was high demand for agricultural machinery overseas. This led to rapid expansion with companies like Deere & Company (founded by John Deere's son), International Harvester Company (now known as Navistar), and Moline Plow Company (later known as Minneapolis-Moline) setting up factories in the city. The early 20th century saw Moline becoming one of the largest industrial hubs in the Midwest. The economic boom brought a surge in population, and by 1920, Moline's population had reached over 43,000 residents. With this growth came advancements in infrastructure such as paved roads, streetlights, and public transportation systems. In addition to these developments, Moline also became home to several cultural institutions that added to its vibrancy including theaters, libraries,and museums. One significant event that helped shape Moline’s identity was the Great Flood of 1919. Heavy rains caused the Mississippi River to overflow its banks and flood much of downtown Moline for weeks on end. This disaster prompted city officials to create a comprehensive flood control system which included levees and dams along with dredging operations - all of which are still used today. As time went on, new industries emerged while others faded away but through it all,Moline remained resilient. Even during times of recession or war,Moliners persevered with their strong work ethic and sense of community spirit. In recent years,Molinians have embraced sustainability initiatives aimed at preserving their natural surroundings for future generations. One example is “GreenTown,”a project that promotes green living practices through education programs andrenewable energy projects. Today,Moline remains an important business center,the third most populous city in Illinois’ Quad Cities region (along with Davenport,Iowa; Rock Island,Illinois;and Bettendorf,Iowa),and continues to draw tourists from near and far who come to explore its rich history,cultural offerings,and scenic riverfront views. Molinians take great pride in their city’s past accomplishments,but they also look toward creating a bright future.Major revitalization efforts are underway including redevelopment projects along the riverfront and downtown area,as well as the construction of a new transit center to improve transportation options. Moline also hosts several annual events that attract visitors from all over the country. One of the most popular is the John Deere Classic,an official PGA Tour event held at TPC Deere Run golf course since 1971. This event not only showcases Moline’s beauty but also raises funds for local charities. Another notable event is the Quad Cities Airshow which takes place every other year featuring aerial performances by military aircrafts and civilian planes. The airshow attracts thousands of spectators each time it is held and has become a beloved tradition in Moline. In addition to these events,Molinians also celebrate their cultural diversity through festivals such as Festival of India,Hmong New Year,and Mexican Independence Day Fiesta. These celebrations bring together people from different backgrounds to share food,music,and traditions - highlighting Moline’s inclusive community. One important aspect that cannot be overlooked when discussing Moline’s history is its educational institutions. From its early days,the city placed great importance on education with one of its original schools dating back to 1852.Today,Moline boasts an excellent public school system along with several private schools and higher education institutions including Western Illinois University-Quad Cities campus. Moline has also produced many prominent figures throughout its history,such as professional athletes,Buzz Aldrin (the second person ever to walk on the moon),and even former President Ronald Reagan who worked at WOC Radio Station in Davenport during his early career.Most notably however,is John Deere whose legacy continues to impact both Moline and global agriculture today. In conclusion,Molines's rich history reflects a story of perseverance,innovation,and community spirit.The city may have started as a small milling town,but it has grown into an industrial powerhouse thanks to generations of hardworking individuals who have called this place home.With ongoing efforts towards development and sustainability,it is clear that Moline will continue to thrive and make its mark in the Midwest for years to come.

Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County along the Mississippi River. The area was initially inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox before being settled by Europeans in the early 19th century. In 1816, Colonel George Davenport established a trading post on Arsenal Island (now known as Rock Island) near where Moline would eventually be founded. This trading post became an important center for fur trade and attracted other settlers to the area. The town of Moline was officially incorporated in 1848 and named after Étienne de Molin, who had previously operated a ferry across the Mississippi River at this location. The population grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the river and its fertile land suitable for farming. In the late 19th century, Moline became an industrial hub with the establishment of John Deere's plow factory. This led to significant economic growth and development in the city as more industries were drawn to set up their factories here. During this time, Moline also played a role in immigration history as it welcomed many immigrants from Europe who came seeking employment opportunities at these factories. These new residents brought cultural diversity to Moline which can still be seen today. The early 20th century saw continued growth and prosperity for Moline with major expansions of existing industries like John Deere as well as new ones such as International Harvester Company (now known as Navistar). The city also became known for its production of farm equipment, leading to it being nicknamed "Plow City." Moline has also been home to various innovations throughout its history. In 1897, Augustana College built one of America's first electric streetcar systems connecting downtown areas with residential neighborhoods. In addition, John Deere introduced mass-produced tractors in their factories during World War I which greatly increased agricultural productivity. During World War II, Moline played an essential role in the war effort by producing military equipment, including tanks and munitions. After the war, Moline continued to grow and diversify its economy with the establishment of new industries such as manufacturing and healthcare. Today, Moline is a thriving city with a population of over 43,000 residents. It remains an important industrial center but has also developed into a cultural hub with museums, theaters, and outdoor recreational spaces. The John Deere Commons area showcases the history of agriculture in Moline through interactive exhibits and displays. Moline's rich history has left behind many architectural landmarks that are still standing today. These include historic homes like Butterworth Center & Deere-Wiman House, which offer tours to visitors interested in learning more about Moline's past. In addition to its economic growth and historical significance, Moline is also known for its strong sense of community. Residents come together for various events throughout the year such as summer concerts at Riverfront Park or Oktoberfest celebrations downtown. Overall, Moline's history is one filled with resilience and progress. From its humble beginnings as a trading post on Arsenal Island to becoming a bustling industrial town known for innovation and diversity, it continues to evolve while preserving its past for future generations to appreciate.

Crest Pontoons is a family-owned business that has been manufacturing high-quality pontoons for over 60 years in Moline, Illinois. The company's history dates back to the early 1950s when founder Bob Menne and his wife Jean started building boat trailers in their garage. Over time, their passion for boating led them to expand into pontoon boat production. The first Crest Pontoon was built in 1957 by Bob Menne with the help of his sons Dave and Bill. It was a simple design made from wood and aluminum tubes, but it quickly gained popularity among local boaters. As demand grew, the Menne family decided to focus solely on manufacturing pontoons and thus founded Crest Marine in Moline. In its early years, Crest Marine faced many challenges as it competed against larger companies such as Bennington and Harris Flotebote. However, through dedication and hard work, the company gradually gained recognition for its superior craftsmanship and innovation. Innovation has always been at the core of Crest Pontoons' success. In 1968, they introduced an all-aluminum frame construction technique which revolutionized pontoon building methods. This allowed them to produce stronger yet lighter boats compared to their competitors. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Crest continued to grow steadily despite changes in ownership due to retirement or death within the Menne family. In these decades they expanded their product line with new models such as fishing pontoons equipped with livewells and rod holders. In 1991 Crest moved its manufacturing facility from downtown Moline to a larger location on South Shore Drive along the Mississippi River bank where it currently operates today. The move allowed for greater efficiency in production while also providing easy access for testing new designs on waterways nearby. As technology advanced rapidly throughout the late '90s into the early millennium, so did Crest Pontoons' offerings. In 2004, they introduced the first-ever triple-tube pontoon boat with a V-berth cabin and an enclosed head. This design set a new standard in luxury and comfort for pontoon boats. In 2011, Crest Pontoons was acquired by Maurell Products Worldwide (MPW), a company that specializes in marine products. The acquisition brought fresh resources and ideas to Crest's operations while still preserving its family-owned identity. Under MPW's leadership, Crest Pontoons has continued to innovate and grow. In recent years, they have expanded their product line to include models equipped with state-of-the-art technology such as digital touch screen controls and joystick steering systems. Today, Crest Pontoons is recognized as one of the leading manufacturers of pontoons in the industry. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards including NMMA Innovation Awards for their innovative designs. Crest Pontoons' impact on Moline goes beyond just being a manufacturer of boats. They have also been actively involved in community outreach programs such as sponsoring fishing tournaments for children and supporting local charities through donations. The success of Crest Pontoons can be attributed to its dedicated employees who take pride in every boat produced at their facility. Many employees have been with the company for decades, some even starting out working alongside founder Bob Menne himself. This sense of loyalty and passion is reflected in the high-quality products that leave their factory every day. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons' history is one rooted in hard work, innovation, dedication, and family values. From humble beginnings building trailers in a garage to becoming an industry leader known for its cutting-edge designs, this small business from Moline has made a significant impact on the boating world.

Crest Pontoons is one of the leading manufacturers of luxury pontoon boats in the world. Founded in 1957, this American company has a rich history and has become synonymous with quality, innovation, and superior customer service. The journey of Crest Pontoons began when four brothers from Indiana started making aluminum canoes. They soon realized that there was a growing demand for recreational watercrafts and decided to expand their business by building pontoon boats. In 1968, they launched their first-ever Crest Pontoon boat – the Nautical Cruiser – which was an instant success. Since then, Crest Pontoons has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the design and functionality of pontoon boats. The company's philosophy is to constantly push boundaries and challenge traditional norms in order to provide customers with an unparalleled boating experience. One of the key factors that sets Crest Pontoons apart from its competitors is its commitment to using only high-quality materials in all aspects of production. From marine-grade aluminum for pontoons to premium vinyl upholstery for seating, every component used in building a Crest Pontoon boat undergoes strict quality control measures. Another distinguishing feature of Crest Pontoons is its patented “Waveglider” technology. This unique hull design combines multiple pontoons with lifting strakes underneath each tube, providing better handling and stability on rough waters compared to other standard pontoon designs. This allows passengers to enjoy a smoother ride even at high speeds without compromising on safety or comfort. In addition to cutting-edge technology, creativity plays a significant role in shaping each model offered by Crest Pontoons. Their team consists of expert designers who continuously work towards creating modern yet timeless designs that cater to various needs and preferences while maintaining aesthetic appeal. Crest Pontoons offers five different series - Classic LX Series, Continental NX Series, Caribbean RS Series, Caliber DLX Series & Savannah SR-Series - catering to varying budgets and boating styles. Each series has a unique set of features, but they all share the same commitment to quality and performance. One notable feature across all Crest Pontoons models is their spacious decks. The boats are designed with wide beams that provide ample room for seating, lounging, and other activities. This makes Crest Pontoons ideal for family outings, fishing trips, or even hosting parties on the water. Moreover, Crest Pontoons offer customizable options that allow customers to personalize their boats according to their preferences. These include various upholstery choices, color schemes, flooring materials such as woven vinyl or synthetic teak flooring among others. Crest Pontoons also offers innovative entertainment features such as Bluetooth-enabled sound systems with multiple speakers and subwoofers integrated into the boat's design. Additionally, most models come equipped with an onboard kitchenette complete with a sink and refrigerator perfect for preparing meals while out on the water. Safety is paramount at Crest Pontoons; hence each model comes standard with safety features like navigation lights, fire extinguisher systems in case of emergencies and fencing around the deck ensuring children's safety onboard. The company’s dedication towards providing exceptional customer service has earned them a loyal following over the years. Their dealer network spans across North America making it convenient for customers to find local sales representatives who can assist them in selecting their dream pontoon boat from one of its six manufacturing facilities spread across Indiana & Tennessee. In recent years,Crest Pontoons was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in recreational marine products - which further solidifies its position as one of the top manufacturers in this industry. Furthermore,Crest Pontoonsshowcases its environmental responsibility through adheringto green practices that minimize waste during production processes.Additionally,the company actively supports several initiatives aimed at protecting our waterways & aquatic life,reaffirmingits commitment towards preserving nature's beauty for generations to come. In conclusion,Crest Pontoons is a brand that has stood the test of time. Its relentless pursuit of excellence in design, technology, and customer service has made it a leader in the pontoon boat industry. With its innovative features, customizable options, and commitment to quality, Crest Pontoons continues to provide customers with unforgettable experiences on the water.