Crestliner is a well-known boat manufacturer that has been operating out of Moline, Illinois for over 75 years. The company was founded in the early 1940s by four brothers who had a passion for boating and a desire to create high-quality aluminum boats. Since its inception, Crestliner has become one of the most recognized names in the boating industry, with a reputation for producing durable and reliable watercraft. The history of Crestliner in Moline begins with the Lundberg brothers – Carl, Harry, Edwin, and Bertil. In their youth, they spent many summers on Minnesota lakes fishing and enjoying time on the water with their family. This love for boating only grew as they got older, leading them to pursue careers in the marine industry. In 1946, after serving in World War II, the Lundberg brothers decided to combine their skills and knowledge to start their own boat manufacturing company. They chose Moline as their headquarters due to its central location between two major rivers – the Mississippi River and Rock River – making it an ideal spot for testing new designs. Initially known as "Lundberg Bros Boat Works," the siblings began building wooden boats under this name before transitioning into aluminum construction in 1953. The change proved successful as demand for lightweight yet sturdy vessels increased among recreational fishermen and families looking for affordable options. The first Crestliner model was launched from Moline's shores just two years later - a 14-foot aluminum fishing boat called “the Viking.” It quickly gained popularity among local anglers due to its innovative design featuring curved sidewalls instead of straight ones found on traditional flat-bottomed boats at that time. Over time, Crestliner expanded its product line by introducing larger models such as cruisers and runabouts while also improving upon existing designs through continuous innovation. In addition to recreational boats used primarily by fisherman or pleasure seekers on inland waters like Lake George, the company also produced commercial vessels used for various purposes like water skiing, transportation, and rescue. Crestliner's success in Moline can be attributed to its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The brothers were known for personally inspecting each boat before it left the factory to ensure that it met their high standards. This dedication to excellence paid off as word of mouth spread about the superior craftsmanship of Crestliner boats. In 1957, Lundberg Bros Boat Works changed its name to "Crestliner" due to a trademark conflict with another company. The new name represented the brand's signature feature – a distinct crease along the hull's side that provided added strength and durability while also improving aesthetics. By the 1960s, Crestliner had become a household name among boating enthusiasts across America. Its reputation was further solidified when President Lyndon B. Johnson purchased two Crestliners for use at his Texas ranch in 1965. However, like many other industries during this time period, Crestliner faced challenges due to increased competition from cheaper foreign imports and rising production costs. In response, they introduced new technologies such as welded seam construction which allowed them to produce stronger yet lighter boats more efficiently. In 1982, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner Industries Inc., marking an exciting new chapter for both companies. Under Brunswick’s ownership, investments were made in advanced manufacturing techniques such as computer-aided design (CAD) software and robotics which helped streamline operations while maintaining high levels of quality control. Today, Crestliner is one of several brands under Brunswick’s Marine Division with headquarters still located in Moline where it all began over seven decades ago. The company employs hundreds of skilled workers who continue using state-of-the-art technology combined with traditional craftsmanship methods passed down through generations ensuring every vessel meets or exceeds customers’ expectations. Despite changing hands multiple times since its founding by four brothers on Minnesota lakeshores after World War II, Crestliner has always remained true to its roots. The company remains committed to providing customers with exceptional watercraft built to last and promoting a love for boating that started back in Moline so many years ago.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, known for its high-quality and durable aluminum boats. Founded in 1946 by a group of fishermen who saw the need for a lighter and more affordable boat, Crestliner has grown into one of the leading manufacturers of freshwater and saltwater fishing boats. The history of Crestliner dates back to World War II when many manufacturing companies were focused on producing war-related equipment. A group of businessmen from Little Falls, Minnesota had an idea to create lightweight aluminum boats that would be perfect for fishing on local lakes and rivers. They formed Mirrocraft Boats Inc., with their first production being small dinghies made out of aluminum sheeting used for aircraft wings. In 1949, Mirrocraft Boats Inc. changed its name to Crestliner after acquiring another boat company called "Crest Craft." This acquisition not only gave them access to new designs but also expanded their product range beyond just fishing boats. The company's reputation quickly grew as they continued to innovate and improve their products, setting a standard for quality and durability in the boating industry. One notable innovation was introduced by Crestliner in 1953 – a welded hull design instead of riveted seams like most other manufacturers at the time. This new method proved to be stronger and more reliable, giving customers confidence in their purchase knowing that their boat was built with top-notch craftsmanship. Throughout the years, Crestliner has continued to push boundaries with cutting-edge technology such as using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) systems for designing boats and incorporating advanced materials like fiberglass-reinforced plastic into some models. In addition to this technological advancement, Crestliner has always placed great importance on customer feedback which has helped shape their designs over the years. Today, Crestliner offers an extensive range of both freshwater and saltwater fishing boats suitable for various applications such as recreational cruising or competitive angling tournaments. Their boats are known for their strength and durability, making them a top choice among serious anglers. One of Crestliner's most popular models is the Fish Hawk series, designed specifically for fishing enthusiasts. These boats offer features such as ample storage space for gear and catch, comfortable seating, and a smooth ride even in rough waters. The Fish Hawk series also comes with options like live wells, tackle trays, and rod holders to cater to different fishing styles. Apart from the Fish Hawk series, Crestliner also offers other boat models such as the Bass Hawk (designed for bass fishing), Kodiak (for hunting or fishing in remote locations), and Superhawk (a versatile all-purpose boat). Each model is built with precision using high-grade aluminum alloy that makes it lightweight yet strong enough to withstand harsh conditions. In addition to their commitment to quality products, Crestliner has always prioritized customer satisfaction. They have established a network of dealers across North America who provide excellent customer service before and after purchase. This dedication has earned them numerous awards over the years including "Top 10 Customer Satisfaction" by NMMA Marine Industry CSI program. Crestliner not only focuses on building exceptional boats but also takes responsibility towards environmental sustainability seriously. They use environmentally-friendly materials wherever possible in their manufacturing process while complying with strict regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In recent years, Crestliner has expanded its global presence through partnerships with international distributors in countries such as Canada, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. This expansion has allowed more boating enthusiasts worldwide access to their high-quality products which are now recognized globally. In conclusion, Crestliner is a company that has been driven by passion since its inception over 70 years ago. With continuous innovation and attention to customers' needs at the forefront of everything they do; it's no surprise they have become one of the leading names in boating industry today. From humble beginnings producing small dinghies, Crestliner has evolved into a company that offers a wide range of boats designed for every angler. With their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we can expect to see Crestliner continue to make waves in the boating industry for many years to come.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality aluminum boats and rich history. The company was founded in 1946 by two brothers, Willis and Charles Denny, who were inspired by their love of fishing on the Mississippi River near Moline, Illinois. Originally based in Little Falls, Minnesota, Crestliner moved its headquarters to Moline in 1954 after being acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC). This move allowed Crestliner to take advantage of Moline's central location and strong manufacturing infrastructure. The following decades saw significant growth for Crestliner as it expanded its product line and distribution networks. In the 1960s, Crestliner became one of the first boat manufacturers to introduce welded hull construction techniques instead of riveting. This innovation resulted in stronger and more durable boats that could handle rough waters better. In the late 1970s, OMC sold Crestliner to Genmar Holdings Inc., which continued to invest in research and development. In 1991, Genmar merged with Brunswick Corporation’s aluminum boat division under Lund Boat Company but kept each brand separate. However, production for both brands took place at Crestliner's manufacturing facilities in Moline. In recent years, there have been several changes within Brunswick Corporation that have affected Crestliner's operations. In early 2020, Brunswick announced plans to close production facilities at its Mettawa office complex in Lake County and consolidate them into a new corporate headquarters located near Minneapolis-St.Paul International Airport. This decision had a major impact on Crestliner as it resulted in layoffs at its Moline facility due to reduced demand for certain boat models produced there. Despite these challenges faced by Brunswick Corporation during this time period, Crestliner remained committed to producing top-quality aluminum boats from their Midwest home base. Today,Crestline continues to operate out of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located along the Mississippi River in Moline. The company's focus on quality and innovation remains unchanged, with a dedication to using advanced technology and superior materials in boat construction. Crestliner also maintains strong ties to its community in Moline. In 2019, the company partnered with local organizations to host "Take It To The River," an event aimed at getting more people out on the water. This event not only promoted boating as a recreational activity but also showcased Crestliner’s commitment to promoting conservation efforts for clean waterways. In addition, Crestliner sponsors several fishing tournaments and events throughout Illinois, including the Quad Cities Open Fishing Tournament held annually on the Mississippi River near their headquarters. Overall, Crestliner's long-standing presence in Moline has contributed significantly to its success as one of the leading aluminum boat manufacturers in North America. With over 75 years of experience and a dedication to excellence, it is no wonder that Crestliner continues to be a trusted brand among boaters across the country.

Moline, Illinois is a vibrant and historic city located in the heart of the Midwest. It has a rich history and strong industrial roots that have shaped its present-day economy and culture. Moline’s diverse population, thriving businesses, and unique attractions make it an exciting place to live, work, and visit. History: The history of Moline dates back to the early 19th century when it was founded by settlers from Europe. The town was originally called Stephenson after Colonel Samuel Stephenson who was instrumental in obtaining land for settlement. In 1843, John Deere moved his plow factory from Grand Detour, Illinois to Moline due to its prime location on the Mississippi River. This move sparked growth in the city as other industries followed suit. Industrial Roots: Moline became known as one of the largest manufacturing centers in America during the late 19th century with John Deere leading the way in agricultural equipment production. The company continued to expand throughout the years and played a significant role in shaping Moline's economy. In addition to agriculture machinery production, Moline also became home to several other major industries such as steel mills, auto parts manufacturers, food processing plants, and more recently technology companies like John Deere Electronic Solutions. Economy: Today's economy is still heavily influenced by these strong industrial roots but has diversified into other sectors such as healthcare services with UnityPoint Health – Trinity Medical Center being one of its top employers. Education is another important sector with Western Illinois University - Quad Cities campus located right outside downtown Moline. The city also boasts a bustling downtown area filled with locally owned shops and restaurants that cater not only to residents but also attract tourists from surrounding areas. Attractions: One cannot talk about Moline without mentioning its famous attraction – The John Deere Pavilion & World Headquarters Campus which offers visitors an interactive experience through exhibits showcasing their iconic green machines along with historical information on farming practices. Another popular attraction is the TaxSlayer Center, a multi-purpose arena that hosts sporting events, concerts, and other forms of entertainment. The Moline Riverfront also draws in crowds with its beautiful parks, riverwalks, and views of the Mississippi River. Culture: Moline’s diverse population has contributed to a vibrant cultural scene. The city celebrates its heritage through various festivals such as the John Deere Classic golf tournament and the Ya Maka My Weekend Caribbean Festival. It also has a growing arts community with events like the annual Riverssance Festival of Fine Art showcasing local artists' work. Education: Moline takes pride in its education system with highly rated public schools along with private school options for families. In addition to Western Illinois University's Quad Cities campus, there are also several community colleges providing higher education opportunities for residents. Community Involvement: The people of Moline are known for their strong sense of community and volunteerism. The city offers numerous opportunities for residents to get involved through volunteering programs at hospitals or schools or participating in local initiatives aimed at improving neighborhoods. Conclusion: In conclusion, Moline is a city steeped in history but constantly evolving to meet modern needs. Its industrial roots have laid down a strong foundation for economic growth while preserving its small-town charm and close-knit community feel. With its diverse population, thriving businesses, unique attractions, and strong sense of community involvement – it is no surprise that Moline continues to be one of the most desirable places to live in Illinois.

Crestliner is a leading manufacturer of aluminum fishing boats, known for their high-quality construction and durability. The company has been in existence for over 75 years, and its history is deeply rooted in the American Midwest. The story of Crestliner begins in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946 when two brothers, Willis and Charles Combs, founded the company. The original name was Crest Craft Boats, but it was later changed to Crestliner due to trademark issues. The Combs brothers were passionate about boating and fishing and saw a need for sturdy yet affordable aluminum boats that could navigate the shallow waters of the local lakes. At first, they started by building small rowboats with riveted seams. However, as demand grew, they expanded their product line to include larger models with outboard motors. Their innovative designs caught the attention of fishermen across Minnesota who appreciated the lightweight yet durable boats that could easily be transported from one lake to another. In 1955, Willis Combs sold his share in the business to focus on other ventures while Charles continued to lead Crestliner. Under his leadership, the company continued to grow rapidly throughout the 1960s and 1970s thanks to an increased interest in recreational boating across America. One significant milestone for Crestliner came in 1961 when they introduced their iconic "Super Viking" model - a deep-V hull boat designed specifically for big water fishing on Lake Superior's North Shore. This model became an instant success among serious anglers who needed a reliable boat that could withstand rough waters. By this time, Charles had established partnerships with various dealerships across North America and even expanded into international markets such as Canada and Japan. His dedication towards improving customer satisfaction earned him numerous accolades within the industry including being named National Marine Manufacturer Association’s “Man of Year” twice during his tenure at Crestliner. Under new ownership since 1993 after being acquired by Brunswick Corporation, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its product line. In 1999, they introduced the Sportfish series of boats specifically designed for tournament fishing. This move cemented their position as a leader in the aluminum boat market. In 2005, Crestliner shifted its production from Little Falls to New York Mills, Minnesota where it is still headquartered today. The new facility allowed for increased efficiency and production capacity while maintaining the high-quality standards that Crestliner was known for. Throughout the years, Crestliner has stayed true to its Midwest roots while also adapting to changing market trends and customer needs. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for pontoon boats in addition to fishing boats. To meet this demand, Crestliner launched their first-ever pontoon model -the Rally- in 2016. This marked their official entry into the leisure boating segment. Today, with over 75 years of experience under its belt and a team of skilled craftsmen at its manufacturing facility in New York Mills, Crestliner continues to be at the forefront of innovation in the marine industry. They have expanded their product line even further to include models suitable for water sports such as skiing and wakeboarding. Crestliner's commitment towards quality craftsmanship can be seen through every step of their boat-building process – from engineering designs using state-of-the-art technology to hand-welding each seam on every boat before rigorous testing takes place on water bodies across North America. In addition to producing top-quality boats, sustainability is also a core value at Crestliner. Their aluminum recycling program ensures that any excess material used during production is recycled instead of going into landfills. Furthermore, Crestline supports various conservation organizations such as Ducks Unlimited and KeepAmericaFishing™ who work towards preserving our natural resources so future generations can continue enjoying recreational boating activities like fishing. As we look back on over seven decades since Willis Combs founded this company, it is evident that Crestliner has come a long way from its humble beginnings. From small rowboats to high-performance fishing and leisure boats, their commitment towards innovation and quality remains unchanged. Crestliner's legacy in the boating industry continues to thrive as they stay true to their mission of providing customers with durable, versatile, and affordable boats for all their recreational needs. With a strong foundation built on Midwestern values of hard work and dedication, there is no doubt that Crestliner will continue to be a leader in the marine industry for many years to come.

Crestliner is a boat manufacturer that has been in business for over 70 years. The company was founded in 1946 by the Thompson Brothers Boat Manufacturing Company, which had previously specialized in building wooden boats. In its early years, Crestliner focused on producing aluminum fishing boats and canoes. These sturdy and lightweight vessels quickly gained popularity among outdoorsmen and recreational boaters alike. As the demand for their products grew, Crestliner expanded its product line to include other types of boats such as runabouts, cruisers, and pontoons. In the 1960s, they introduced one of their most iconic models – the Muskie series – which became known as an excellent fishing boat due to its stability and durability. Throughout the decades, Crestliner continued to innovate and improve upon their designs. In 1981, they were one of the first companies to introduce a welded hull construction method instead of riveting or bolting pieces together. This technique resulted in stronger and more durable boats that could handle rough waters with ease. In addition to constantly improving their production methods, Crestliner also made sure to stay up-to-date with market trends by introducing new features and technologies into their boats. In 1997, they launched "The Fish Hawk," which featured a unique center console design specifically tailored for serious anglers. By staying true to their mission of providing high-quality aluminum boats at affordable prices while incorporating modern advancements into their designs, Crestliner continued to thrive throughout the years despite changes within the industry. Today, Crestliner offers an extensive lineup of versatile fishing and recreational boats suitable for all levels of experience. They are committed not only to providing exceptional products but also top-notch customer service through a network of dealers across North America. In recent years, Crestliner has embraced environmentally-friendly manufacturing practices by implementing sustainable materials usage and reducing waste during production processes. They have also partnered with organizations such as Ducks Unlimited®and Walleyes for Tomorrow® to support conservation efforts and promote responsible boating practices. In 2018, Crestliner became a part of the Brunswick Boat Group, which provided them with additional resources and expertise to further enhance their products. This acquisition also allowed Crestliner to expand its reach into international markets, making their boats available in countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and China. Despite changes in ownership over the years, Crestliner has remained true to its roots by continuing to produce high-quality aluminum boats that meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. With a rich history of innovation and a commitment to customer satisfaction, it's no wonder that Crestliner remains one of the leading boat manufacturers in the industry today.

Moline, Illinois is a city with a rich and diverse history that has shaped its identity and culture. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement on the banks of the Mississippi River to becoming one of the largest cities in Illinois, Moline has experienced many significant events that have left an indelible mark on its development. The earliest inhabitants of what is now known as Moline were Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Meskwaki people. They lived along the river for centuries, relying on it for transportation, food, and trade. However, in 1673 French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet arrived in the area and claimed it for France. This marked the beginning of European settlement in Moline. In 1805 Colonel George Davenport built Fort Armstrong near present-day Rock Island to protect against British invasion during the War of 1812. This fort became a hub for fur traders and led to increased traffic through Moline's waterways. The arrival of steamboats further boosted trade opportunities for settlers. In 1837 John Deere invented his famous steel plow while working at a blacksmith shop in Grand Detour, about 60 miles from present-day Moline. He later moved his business to Moline where he established Deere & Company - now one of the world's leading manufacturers of agricultural equipment. The company's success contributed greatly to Moline's growth by providing jobs and attracting new residents. By mid-19th century, railroads began connecting major cities throughout America including Chicago – just over three hours away from Moline by train – making it easier for goods produced in nearby towns like Galesburg or Peoria to be transported through Moline before being shipped out via steamboat downriver towards New Orleans or upriver towards St.Louis. During this time period, several other industries also emerged in Moline such as lumber mills which utilized timber from the forests of Wisconsin and Minnesota. This led to Moline becoming a major producer of furniture, with companies like John Deere Furniture Co., which later became famous for their quality rocking chairs. In 1872, Moline was officially incorporated as a city with a population of just over 6,000 people. The following years saw continued growth and development in the city as more industries moved in and established themselves, including breweries, foundries, paper mills, and meatpacking plants. The early 20th century brought significant changes to Moline's landscape. In 1904 the world-renowned architect Daniel Burnham was hired to design what is now known as Riverside Park - an urban park that stretches along the Mississippi River for two miles. He also designed several other notable buildings in Moline such as City Hall and Augustana College's Denkmann Memorial Building. During World War I, manufacturers in Moline shifted their focus towards producing goods for the war effort. With its proximity to railroads and waterways – essential for transportation during wartime – Moline played a crucial role in supplying military equipment such as tractors and artillery shells. The Great Depression hit Moline hard but it also gave rise to important labor movements that shaped the future of worker rights across America. One such example is when workers at International Harvester Company (now Navistar) went on strike demanding better working conditions and pay; this resulted in one of the longest strikes in U.S history lasting nearly five months before reaching an agreement between management and unions. In recent decades, Moline has undergone significant revitalization efforts with projects such as The District - a downtown area featuring restaurants, shops, hotels,and entertainment venues like TaxSlayer Center (formerly known as iWireless Center),which hosts concerts,major sporting events,and conventions throughout the year. Today,Mo

Moline, Illinois is a city located in Rock Island County in the western region of the state. The city was founded in 1848 by David B. Sears, who purchased land from the government and laid out a townsite along the Mississippi River. The name "Moline" comes from an Algonquin word meaning “place of mills,” reflecting its early industrial roots. One of Moline's earliest industries was lumbering, as logs floated down the Mississippi River were processed into lumber at local sawmills. However, it was not until John Deere arrived in 1847 that Moline became known for its manufacturing and agricultural equipment industry. John Deere moved his plow manufacturing business to Moline in 1848 and it quickly became one of the largest employers in the area. In addition to plows, John Deere also produced other farming equipment such as cultivators, harvesters, and planters. By 1876, John Deere had become a household name throughout much of America. The railroad also played an important role in Moline’s development as a major industrial center. The Chicago & Rock Island Railroad built tracks through Moline in 1854, providing efficient transportation for goods produced by local factories. In addition to agriculture and manufacturing industries, Moline also developed a strong publishing sector with several newspapers being established during this time period including: The Daily Dispatch (1851), The Evening Mail (1882), and The Morning Sun (1899). During World War I, companies like International Harvester Company shifted their focus to producing war-related materials which brought significant economic growth to Moline. After World War II ended there was another surge of economic growth due to increased demand for consumer products such as automobiles and home appliances. In recent years,Moline has undergone revitalization efforts with improvements made to downtown areas including new restaurants,boutiques,and entertainment venues.The city has also focused on developing its riverfront with walking trails, parks, and outdoor event spaces. Today, Moline continues to thrive as a major manufacturing hub for agricultural equipment. The city is also home to the corporate headquarters of Deere & Company (formerly known as John Deere), which remains one of the largest employers in the area. In addition to its industrial roots, Moline has also become a cultural center within the Quad Cities region. The city is home to several museums including the John Deere Pavilion and Discovery Center Museum. It also hosts events such as the annual Quad City Air Show and Festival of Trees. Moline's rich history can be seen throughout the city through its historic buildings, landmarks,and monuments.A notable example is "The Black Hawk,"a 48-foot-tall statue that stands on a bluff overlooking downtown Moline.It was built in honor of Chief Black Hawk,a Native American leader who led his people during a conflict with white settlers in Illinois in 1832.The statue serves as a symbol of Moline’s diverse heritage and honors its Native American roots. Overall,Moline's history is deeply intertwined with agriculture and industry.With its strong work ethic and determination,the city has evolved from a small settlement along the Mississippi River into an important economic powerhouse.The legacy left by early pioneers like David B.Searsand John Deere continues to shape Moline today,and it will undoubtedly play an important role in shaping its future.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, with a rich history dating back to 1946. The company was founded in Moline, Illinois and has been a major contributor to the city's economy for many years. In this paper, we will explore the history of Crestliner in Moline and its impact on the community. The Beginning: In 1946, Crestliner was established by two friends - Willis Boyd and Bob Warren - who shared a passion for boating. They saw an opportunity to build high-quality boats at affordable prices and decided to start their own company. With limited resources but big dreams, they set up shop in an old barn on River Drive in Moline. Early Success: Despite being a small operation, Crestliner quickly gained popularity among local boaters due to its commitment to quality craftsmanship. The first model produced by Boyd and Warren was called "The Phantom” which became an instant hit with customers. Word about these exceptional boats spread quickly, leading to increased demand from other parts of Illinois as well as neighboring states like Iowa and Wisconsin. This early success allowed Crestliner to expand its operations beyond just building boats; it also started offering boat repair services. Expansion & Innovation: As business continued to grow throughout the late 1940s and into the 1950s, Crestliner moved out of its humble beginnings into larger facilities on Avenue D near downtown Moline. This move allowed them not only more space for production but also access to better technology that enabled them to innovate further. One such innovation was introduced in 1957 - aluminum hull construction using rivets instead of welding – which made their boats lighter yet stronger than traditional wooden ones. This advancement proved crucial as it gave Crestliner an edge over competitors while catering specifically towards freshwater fishing enthusiasts looking for light-weight yet durable vessels. Partnerships & Acquisitions: During this time period, Crestliner forged partnerships with other boating companies to expand its product line. In 1959, they acquired AeroCraft Boats, a company that specialized in aluminum canoes and small boats. This allowed Crestliner to diversify its offerings and tap into the growing demand for smaller, more affordable recreational boats. In 1961, Crestliner also partnered with Johnson Outboards - one of the leading motor manufacturers at the time – to exclusively use their motors on all Crestliner models. This collaboration helped solidify both companies' positions as leaders in the boating industry. Growth & Recognition: As Crestliner’s reputation continued to grow throughout Moline and beyond, so did its production capacity. By 1963, it had outgrown its Avenue D facility and moved once again – this time to a new state-of-the-art plant on River Drive South. This move marked an important milestone for not just Crestliner but also for Moline itself; as it became synonymous with quality boat manufacturing in the city. In recognition of this growth and success, Boyd was awarded "Small Businessman of The Year" by President Lyndon B Johnson in 1964. Changing Hands: The early days saw Willis Boyd at the helm of operations alongside Bob Warren; however, by late 1972 he was ready to pass on ownership due to health reasons. He sold his shares of stock back to Warren who then took over full control until his retirement in 1980 when he sold it off entirely. Crestliner Today: Since then there have been several changes in ownership including being under parent company Genmar Holdings from 2005-2009 before finally becoming part of Brunswick Corporation's portfolio since September 2018. Today's models are designed using cutting edge technology while still maintaining traditional values and craftsmanship that made them famous over seven decades ago! With modern amenities such as GPS navigation systems integrated into consoles along with high-quality sound systems - these vessels cater to a wide range of boaters from fishing enthusiasts to families looking for a weekend getaway. Crestliner remains one of the top boat manufacturers in Moline, Illinois and continues to contribute significantly to the city's economy. Its impact on the community can be seen through its continued commitment towards job creation and participation in local events such as the annual "Boat Show" which attracts visitors from all over the state. Conclusion: In conclusion, Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings in an old barn on River Drive. From building just one model - "The Phantom” - it now produces a wide range of boats that cater to various needs and preferences. Through partnerships, innovations, and dedication towards quality, Crestliner has not only become a household name but also an integral part of Moline’s history.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, with a rich history dating back to 1946. Since its inception, this American company has been dedicated to producing high-quality boats that cater to the needs of fishing enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The Beginning: A Story of Vision and Determination Crestliner was founded by William Morser Sr. in Little Falls, Minnesota, after he returned from serving in World War II. He had a vision of designing and building aluminum boats that were strong enough for rough waters but light enough for easy transportation. With determination and hard work, Morser turned his dream into reality. Innovative Designs Set Crestliner Apart From the very beginning, Crestliner stood out from other boat manufacturers due to its innovative designs and manufacturing processes. The use of aluminum as the primary material for their boats was not only unique but also proved highly beneficial for both performance and durability. Over the years, Crestliner has continuously improved its designs through advanced engineering techniques such as variable deadrise hulls and reverse chines. These features provide better stability on water while improving fuel efficiency – an important factor for avid fishermen who spend long hours on their boats. A Wide Range of Boat Models One of Crestliner's strengths lies in its diverse range of boat models that cater to different types of water activities such as fishing, hunting or recreational boating. Their lineup includes versatile fish-and-ski models like Fish Hawk series which can be used both for angling or cruising with family; tournament-ready bass boats like PT series designed with input from professional anglers; bay style boats built specifically for saltwater adventures; pontoon boats offering ample space and comfort; Jon-style utility vessels perfect for hunting trips; among others. Each model comes equipped with features specific to its purpose – whether it's rod storage compartments on fishing models or comfortable seating arrangements on pleasure crafts. In addition to standard options available, Crestliner also offers customization options to fit the individual needs and preferences of their customers. Commitment to Quality and Durability Crestliner's commitment to quality is evident in its use of premium materials such as marine-grade aluminum and high-quality upholstery. These boats are built to withstand harsh conditions on water, making them a reliable choice for boaters who value durability. The welding process used by Crestliner ensures that every boat is leak-proof and strong enough to handle rough waters. In fact, they back this up with a limited lifetime warranty on the hull structure – a testament to their confidence in the build quality of their boats. Partnering with Industry Leaders In order to provide top-notch products, Crestliner has formed partnerships with industry leaders. They have collaborated with Mercury Marine for providing outboard engines that offer exceptional performance and reliability. For added convenience, many models come equipped with integrated controls between motor and steering systems - allowing smoother handling while maneuvering through tight spaces or choppy waters. Another notable partnership is with Humminbird, which provides advanced fish-finding technology such as side imaging sonar on select models. This feature gives fishermen an edge by helping them locate fish more accurately. Sustainability Efforts As a company that relies heavily on natural resources like water bodies, Crestliner recognizes the importance of sustainability efforts. They strive towards reducing waste during manufacturing processes by using recycled materials whenever possible. Additionally, all scrap metal from production lines is recycled rather than being discarded into landfills. Furthermore, some models come equipped with fuel-efficient engines that reduce emissions harmful to aquatic life – another step towards preserving our environment for future generations. Community Involvement Crestliner not only focuses on producing exceptional boats but also believes in giving back to society. The company regularly partners with organizations dedicated towards conservation efforts like Ducks Unlimited and Fishing League Worldwide (FLW). They also support local events such as fishing tournaments or outdoor expos where they showcase their products and engage with the community. In addition, Crestliner offers discounts to active duty military personnel as a way of showing appreciation for their service. This demonstrates their commitment to not only producing quality boats but also being a responsible corporate citizen. Conclusion Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1946. Through continuous innovation, dedication to quality, and partnerships with industry leaders, they have established themselves as one of the top players in the boating industry. Their diverse range of boat models caters to different needs and preferences while ensuring durability and performance on water. With a focus on sustainability efforts and community involvement, Crestliner is not just about manufacturing boats – it's about creating experiences that bring people closer to nature. As they continue to evolve and adapt to changing times, one thing remains constant – their passion for delivering the best possible boating experience for all outdoor enthusiasts.