Crestliner is a renowned boat manufacturer that has been in operation for over 75 years. The company was founded in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946 by two brothers, Dave and Willis Northrop. However, it was not until the early 1950s when Crestliner moved its headquarters to Rockford, Illinois that the company truly began to thrive. The move to Rockford proved to be a strategic decision for Crestliner as it allowed them to tap into the rich history of manufacturing and industrialization of this city. At the time, Rockford was considered one of the leading manufacturing hubs in the United States. Upon arriving in Rockford, Crestliner quickly set up shop on South Main Street where they began producing their signature aluminum boats. The location gave them easy access to raw materials and skilled labor needed for boat production. This helped them establish themselves as one of the top manufacturers of aluminum boats in the country. In its early years in Rockford, Crestliner primarily focused on producing small fishing boats under 18 feet long. These were popular among avid anglers who appreciated their durability and sturdiness on water. As demand grew for larger recreational boats, Crestliner expanded its product line with bigger models such as cruisers and runabouts. One factor that contributed significantly to Crestliner's success during this period was their commitment to innovation and technology advancements. In 1961, they introduced an all-aluminum pontoon boat which quickly became a favorite among boaters due to its stability and spaciousness compared to traditional wooden pontoons. Crestliner's reputation continued growing throughout the decades thanks to their dedication towards improving design techniques and incorporating cutting-edge features into their boats. Their team of engineers continually refined hull designs resulting in superior handling capabilities even at high speeds. Apart from technological advancements, another key aspect that played a significant role in propelling Crestliner forward was their customer-focused approach towards business operations. They prioritized listening to customer feedback and incorporating it into their production process, resulting in boats that addressed the specific needs of boaters. The 1980s proved to be a challenging period for Crestliner as they faced stiff competition from other boat manufacturers. However, they managed to stay afloat by introducing new models and diversifying their product line. In 1987, Crestliner was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, one of the largest marine companies in the world. This partnership gave them access to more resources and expertise, enabling them to expand even further. In recent years, Crestliner has continued its legacy of innovation with the introduction of features such as integrated baitwells and rod storage systems in their fishing boats. They have also ventured into producing high-performance sport boats for water sports enthusiasts. Today, Crestliner's presence in Rockford remains strong as they continue operating out of their manufacturing facility on South Main Street. The company employs over 200 people who are dedicated to designing and building top-quality aluminum boats that meet the demands of modern-day boaters. Crestliner's commitment towards excellence has not gone unnoticed as they have received numerous awards and accolades throughout their history. In 2018 alone, they were awarded "Best Aluminum Boat" at both the Minneapolis Boat Show and New York Boat Show for their innovative pontoon design. Moreover, Crestliner has also been actively involved in giving back to the community through various initiatives such as sponsoring local fishing tournaments and partnering with organizations like Fishing For Life – an outreach program that provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities or disadvantaged backgrounds to experience boating activities. In conclusion, Crestliner's move to Rockford played a pivotal role in shaping its success story over the past seven decades. Their dedication towards innovation combined with a customer-centric approach has helped them establish themselves as one of the leading boat manufacturers not only in Illinois but across North America. Their journey from small fishing boats on Little Falls to a globally recognized brand in Rockford is a testament to their resilience and determination. As they continue to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of boaters, Crestliner's legacy in Rockford will undoubtedly endure for many years to come.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, with a rich history that spans over 75 years. The company has become synonymous with high-quality aluminum boats and has built a strong reputation for reliability, durability, and innovation. History The story of Crestliner began in 1946 when four partners – William Morser Sr., E.N. Morse, J.W. Morris, and Paul Tofte – purchased an old building in Little Falls, Minnesota to start their own boat manufacturing business. They named their company “Aluminum Boat Company” and set out to build aluminum fishing boats using innovative techniques. In the early days, Crestliner focused on producing small fishing boats made from lightweight aluminum sheets welded together. These boats quickly gained popularity among anglers due to their affordability and low maintenance costs compared to traditional wooden boats. In 1959, the company was renamed Crestliner Inc., reflecting its growing success in the boating market. Throughout the decades that followed, Crestliner continued to grow by expanding its product line and introducing new technologies such as rivetless all-welded construction. Today Crestliner’s headquarters are still located in Little Falls, Minnesota where they manufacture world-class aluminum fishing boats for both freshwater and saltwater environments. The company also operates two additional facilities – one in New York Mills, Minnesota that specializes in pontoon boat production and another facility in Lebanon Missouri dedicated solely to creating durable duck hunting boats. Crestliner offers a wide range of models including bass boats designed for competitive angling tournaments; sportfish models equipped with powerful engines capable of towing water skiers; multi-species craft ideal for trolling or casting; utility vehicles perfect for weekend getaways or family outings; Jon-style flat-bottomed hulls used primarily by hunters looking for quiet vessels suited to navigating shallow waters or marshes; deep-V offshore rigs designed specifically for rough seas encountered during ocean cruising adventures- and even commercial grade workboats that can handle tough tasks such as transporting passengers, equipment or freight. Crestliner’s commitment to quality is evident in every boat they produce. The company uses an innovative hull design called the UniWeld system which involves welding a single piece of aluminum from bow to stern, creating a seamless and strong structure. This technique eliminates rivets and seams that are prone to leaking or breaking over time, ensuring long-lasting durability for Crestliner boats. In addition to their advanced manufacturing techniques, Crestliner also utilizes state-of-the-art technology in designing and constructing their boats. Their CAD (computer-aided design) software allows them to create precise 3D models before any physical production takes place. This ensures accuracy and efficiency throughout the construction process. Crestliner also prides itself on its attention to detail when it comes to features and amenities for boaters. Each model is carefully designed with practicality, comfort, and convenience in mind. From spacious storage compartments for fishing gear to comfortable seating options for passengers, every aspect of a Crestliner boat is well thought out. The company’s dedication towards innovation has not gone unnoticed by industry experts either. In 2019 alone, Crestliner was recognized with several awards including “Best Aluminum Boat” by Boating Industry Magazine for their new Fish Hawk series; “Top Product” by Boating Industry Magazine for their VTC18 Venom Pro Tournament Bass Boat; “Customers Choice Award” by Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine for their Rally DX pontoon boat; among many others. Environmental Responsibility As stewards of the ocean waters our planet depends on- environmental responsibility matters greatly at Crestliners too! In fact- each vessel manufactured at all three plants adheres strictly too – U.S.C.G safety standards while using environmentally friendly processes like eco-friendly paints as well as recycling waste materials wherever possible! Community Involvement Crestliners values community involvement and has partnered with organizations such as the National Marine Manufacturers Association, Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation, and Take Me Fishing campaign to promote boating safety and conservation efforts. The company also supports local charities and events in their hometown of Little Falls, Minnesota. In conclusion, Crestliner is more than just a brand – it's a legacy built on passion for boating and dedication to creating high-quality products. With over 75 years of experience in the industry, Crestliner continues to push boundaries with innovative designs and advanced manufacturing techniques while staying true to its commitment towards environmental responsibility and community involvement. Whether you’re an avid angler or someone looking for a family-friendly boat for weekend getaways, Crestliner has a model that will suit your needs. It’s no wonder why they are one of the most trusted names in the boating world today.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the marine industry, known for their high-quality aluminum fishing and pontoon boats. The company has a long history in Rockford, Illinois, where it was founded and continues to have its headquarters. The story of Crestliner began in 1946 when two brothers, Willis and Charles Clements, started manufacturing welded aluminum boats out of their garage in Little Falls, Minnesota. They quickly gained a reputation for producing durable and innovative boats that could withstand rough waters. In 1953, the Clements brothers decided to expand their business by opening a second plant in Rockford, Illinois. This location offered them access to skilled laborers and easy transportation routes via the nearby Rock River. The move to Rockford proved to be successful as Crestliner continued to grow and innovate over the years. In 1961, they introduced their first fiberglass boat model called "Seaflight," which became an instant hit with customers. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Crestliner expanded its product line even further with the introduction of pontoon boats. These spacious vessels were perfect for family outings on lakes and rivers. In 1997, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner as part of its strategy to become a leader in both freshwater and saltwater boating markets. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner continued to thrive as one of the top manufacturers of aluminum fishing boats. Today, Crestliner remains headquartered in Rockford at a state-of-the-art facility spanning over half a million square feet. The company's commitment to quality craftsmanship has not wavered since its beginnings over seven decades ago. Crestliner continues to innovate with new designs such as their award-winning Retriever series designed specifically for hunting enthusiasts. In addition to offering versatile models for various types of water activities like fishing or hunting trips that take place on rivers or lakes throughout North America every year, Crestliner also prides itself on being an environmentally responsible company. They have implemented sustainable manufacturing practices and use recyclable materials in their boats, ensuring that they leave a minimal impact on the environment. As Crestliner looks to the future, they remain dedicated to providing top-of-the-line boats for outdoor enthusiasts while staying true to their roots in Rockford, Illinois. Their long history and strong presence in the community make them an integral part of the city's identity and economy.

Rockford, Illinois is a city located in the northern part of Illinois, approximately 90 miles northwest of Chicago. It is the third largest city in the state and serves as the county seat for Winnebago County. With a population of over 150,000 people, Rockford has established itself as an important economic and cultural hub in the region. The history of Rockford dates back to 1834 when Germanicus Kent and Thatcher Blake founded it as a small settlement along the banks of the Rock River. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as Potawatomi and Winnebago before European settlers arrived. In its early years, Rockford served as a center for agriculture with crops like corn, wheat, oats, and potatoes being grown on its fertile land. In the late 19th century, Rockford experienced rapid growth due to industrialization. Its location along major transportation routes made it an ideal spot for manufacturing companies to establish themselves. Companies like National Lock Company (now known as Emhart Teknologies) and J.L Clark Manufacturing Co (known for making tin cans) were among those that contributed to this growth. Today, Rockford's economy is diverse with a mix of manufacturing industries including aerospace engineering, healthcare technology production, automotive parts manufacturing amongst others. Major corporations such as Woodward Inc., Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation (a subsidiary of United Technologies), Chrysler Group LLC have their headquarters or facilities in Rockford. Apart from its thriving economy, Rockford also boasts a rich cultural heritage which can be seen through its numerous museums and art galleries spread throughout the city. The Burpee Museum of Natural History showcases fossils found near or within Rockford while Tinker Swiss Cottage gives visitors insight into life during Victorian times through tours around its historic home built-in 1865. Music plays an essential role in shaping culture in any society; thus it's no surprise that music festivals are popular in Rockford. The city hosts annual events such as the Prairie Street Brewhouse Block Party, which features local musicians and bands performing on an outdoor stage. Another popular event is the Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition held in Sinnissippi Park, where snow sculptors from around the world come to showcase their skills. Rockford's diverse population also contributes to its vibrant culture with various ethnic communities celebrating their traditions through festivals and events. The Greek Fest, held annually at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, offers visitors a taste of traditional Greek food and music while highlighting the community's customs. Additionally, Rockford is home to several educational institutions that provide a strong foundation for future generations. Some notable universities include Rock Valley College, Northern Illinois University (NIU), and Rockford University (formerly known as Rockford College). These institutions offer a wide range of degree programs in different fields including business, healthcare, education amongst others. One of the city's most significant landmarks is Anderson Japanese Gardens, which has been recognized as one of North America’s finest Japanese gardens since it opened its doors to visitors in 1978. This peaceful oasis features winding paths around ponds filled with koi fish along with stone lanterns imported from Japan. It serves as a serene escape within the bustling city for locals and tourists alike. In recent years, Rockford has undergone significant revitalization efforts aimed at improving its quality of life for residents and attracting more visitors to the area. One major project was transforming downtown into an arts district called "The River District." This area now boasts art galleries, boutique shops, restaurants serving locally sourced cuisine along with other attractions like City Market – an open-air market featuring fresh produce from local farmers. Despite facing challenges like any other growing city, Rockford continues to thrive thanks to its resilient community spirit fueled by hardworking individuals who are dedicated to making it a better place for current and future generations. From manufacturing prowess rooted in its early history to becoming a cultural and educational center, Rockford has transformed into a well-rounded city with something to offer everyone. With ongoing efforts towards growth and development, it is clear that Rockford will continue to be an important part of Illinois for years to come.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, producing high-quality and durable boats for over 75 years. The company has a rich history that dates back to its humble beginnings in Little Falls, Minnesota. The Crestliner story began in 1946 when two partners, William Morser and James Clark, founded the Aluminum Boat Company. They saw an opportunity to create affordable aluminum boats that were lightweight yet sturdy enough for fishing and recreational activities on lakes and rivers. The duo started by building small aluminum canoes before expanding their product line to include larger fishing boats. In 1952, the company changed its name to Crestliner after receiving trademark approval for the name. This was also the year when they launched their first fiberglass boat – a revolutionary move at the time as most boat manufacturers were still using wood or metal construction methods. The introduction of fiberglass boats marked a turning point for Crestliner as it allowed them to produce larger vessels with more complex designs. This led to increased demand for their products and solidified their position as innovators in the boating industry. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Crestliner continued to grow and expand its product line with new models such as ski-boats, cruisers, runabouts, pontoons, and even sailboats. They also established themselves as pioneers in incorporating modern technology into their manufacturing processes by utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) programs. In 1981, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner from Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC). Under Brunswick’s ownership, Crestliner experienced significant growth through strategic partnerships with other prominent brands such as Mercury Marine and Johnson Outdoors Inc. During this time period of expansion under Brunswick's umbrella of companies came some unique innovations from within that had not been seen before at any other marine manufacturer: one being "Jethawk," which combined outboard jet propulsion systems with crestliners deep-v hulls, and the "Superhawk" series which combined outboard power with crestliners hallmark deep-v hull, both were a first in their respective categories. The 1990s saw Crestliner continue to thrive as they introduced the Fish Hawk series – an innovative line of boats designed specifically for avid fishermen. These boats featured advanced fishing technologies such as live wells, baitwells, trolling motors, and fish finders – setting a new standard in the industry. In 2005, Brunswick Corporation sold Crestliner to Genmar Holdings Inc., a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles. This change in ownership brought about further advancements in design and manufacturing processes as well as increased marketing efforts to expand Crestliner's reach globally. As technology continued to advance rapidly in the boating industry, so did Crestliner’s commitment to incorporating it into their products. In 2012, they launched their “TCG Hull” technology that provided superior performance and durability on rough waters by combining three different layers of aluminum alloy. Today, under its parent company BRP Marine Group (formerly known as Genmar), Crestliner continues to be at the forefront of innovation with state-of-the-art engineering techniques and cutting-edge designs. They offer a wide range of models suited for various activities like fishing or recreational cruising while maintaining their reputation for producing high-quality boats built to last. Crestliner has also established itself as an environmentally conscious brand through its sustainable manufacturing practices and partnerships with organizations like Keep America Fishing. The company is dedicated not only to providing exceptional boating experiences but also preserving our natural resources for future generations. In conclusion, from humble beginnings over seven decades ago to becoming one of the most recognizable names in the marine industry today – Crestliner’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Through constant innovation and dedication towards excellence, they have carved out a prominent place for themselves among other top boat manufacturers worldwide. As long-time CEO Andy Lindstrom puts it, “We’re not just committed to building boats; we’re committed to building experiences that last a lifetime.” And that is exactly what Crestliner has been doing for over 75 years.

Crestliner is a leading manufacturer of aluminum fishing and recreational boats. The company was founded in 1946 by four brothers – Willis, Charles, James, and Harry Morberg – in Little Falls, Minnesota. The original name of the company was "Aluminum Boat Company," but it was changed to Crestliner in 1951. The Morberg brothers were passionate fishermen and saw the potential for aluminum boats to revolutionize the industry. At that time, most boats were made from wood or steel, which had their limitations. Aluminum offered numerous advantages such as durability, lightweight design, low maintenance cost, and resistance to corrosion. In its early years, Crestliner focused on manufacturing small utility-style boats for local anglers. However, with growing demand and advancements in technology, the company expanded its product line to include larger models suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. In 1960s Crestliner introduced all-welded construction techniques that greatly increased the strength and durability of their boats while also reducing production costs. This innovation allowed them to offer high-quality boats at more affordable prices than competitors. Throughout the years, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its offerings with new designs and features such as livewells for storing live baitfish onboard during fishing trips. In 1985 they introduced an innovative hull design called Reverse Chine which improved stability in rough waters. In 2005 Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner along with other well-known boat brands like Lund Boats and Harris FloteBote Pontoons under their Marine division's umbrella. Today Crestliner offers a wide range of models including bass & crappie fishing boats; multi-species fish & ski; pontoon style deckboats; walleye deep-v hulls; jon styled waterfowl hunting rigs; bay style skiffs for saltwater use; tiller-controlled backtrollers ; side console sportfishers ; walk-through windshields; and dual-console sport boats. The company also offers customizable options for customers to tailor their boats to fit their specific needs. Crestliner has a strong reputation for quality, durability, and innovation in the boating industry. Their boats are known for their sleek design, superior performance on the water, and unmatched value. They continue to invest in research and development to bring new technologies and features that enhance the overall boating experience. In addition to manufacturing high-quality boats, Crestliner is committed to environmental sustainability by implementing environmentally friendly production practices such as using recycled aluminum materials in their construction process. Today Crestliner's headquarters is located in Otsego, Minnesota with manufacturing facilities in Little Falls and New York Mills. The company has a widespread dealer network across North America making it easier for customers to find products they need wherever they are located. With over 70 years of experience in boat manufacturing under its belt, Crestliner remains dedicated to providing top-notch products that meet the ever-changing needs of anglers and outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.

Rockford, Illinois is a city with a rich and diverse history. Located in the northern part of the state, it has been shaped by its natural resources, economic growth, and vibrant community. From its early days as a small settlement on the Rock River to its current status as the third-largest city in Illinois, Rockford has undergone many changes while retaining its unique character. The earliest known inhabitants of what is now Rockford were Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi and Winnebago. They lived off of hunting, fishing, and agriculture along the fertile banks of the river. In 1834, Germanicus Kent and Thatcher Blake arrived at this spot on their journey westward from Chicago. They recognized its potential for development due to its location on both sides of the river and named it "Midway" between Chicago and Galena. Soon after that initial settlement was formed, more settlers began arriving in search of land opportunities. One notable figure was Lewis Lemon who purchased land from Kent in 1835 for $3 an acre. He built his home near present-day North Main Street which still stands today as one of Rockford's oldest surviving buildings. In 1837, Midway was officially incorporated as a village under Illinois state law with nearly 300 residents. The following year saw significant growth when construction began on two important transportation routes: The Galena & Chicago Union Railroad (now Union Pacific) connecting Chicago to Galena via Rockford; and The Old State Road linking St Louis to Chicago through Dixon. With these new transportation options came increased trade opportunities which led to economic growth for Midway/Rockford over the next few decades. By mid-19th century, it had become an important hub for agricultural products such as wheat flour milling industry due to ample water supply from nearby creeks like Kishwaukee Creek. As more people settled in Midway/Rockford during this time, the need for a proper government and infrastructure arose. In 1852, Rockford was officially incorporated as a city with its first mayor being John Phelps. The same year also saw the establishment of a volunteer fire department to address concerns about fire safety in the growing city. The late 19th century brought significant changes to Rockford's economy and culture. The advent of industrialization led to rapid growth in manufacturing industries such as furniture, clothing, and machinery production. This attracted many immigrants from Europe who came seeking employment opportunities. In fact, by 1880 nearly one-third of Rockford's population was foreign-born. The early 20th century saw continued economic growth for Rockford with expansion into new industries like aviation and automotive manufacturing. Companies such as Sundstrand Corporation (now UTC Aerospace Systems) and Woodward Governor Company played important roles in shaping Rockford's identity as an industrial powerhouse. However, just like many other American cities during this time period, Rockford faced challenges due to the Great Depression in the 1930s followed by World War II which brought about rationing of materials used for production. Despite these setbacks, post-war years saw another boom in industry and population growth making it one of America's fastest-growing cities at that time. In more recent decades, Rockford has undergone significant revitalization efforts aimed at diversifying its economy beyond traditional manufacturing industries while preserving its historic character. Examples include projects such as Downtown Riverfront Development Plan which transformed abandoned warehouses along the river into vibrant residential lofts and office spaces; or Anderson Japanese Gardens – an award-winning public garden created on former farm land. Today, although facing some economic challenges similar to those experienced earlier in its history due to globalization and changing market demands;Rockford continues to thrive with strong community spirit driving initiatives towards sustainability through green energy development projects; promoting healthy lifestyles through outdoor recreational activities including biking trails connecting neighborhoods throughout the city; while also embracing cultural diversity through events such as Ethnic Festival and Pride Parade. In conclusion, Rockford's history is a testament to the resilience of its people and their ability to adapt and thrive in changing times. From its humble beginnings as a small settlement on the Rock River, it has evolved into a dynamic city with a strong sense of community pride. Its unique blend of industrial heritage, natural beauty, and diverse culture make it a truly special place to live and visit.

Rockford, Illinois is a city located in the northern part of the state, approximately 90 miles northwest of Chicago. It is known as the "Forest City" due to its location surrounded by beautiful forests and rivers. The area where Rockford now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi and Winnebago. In the early 1800s, European settlers began arriving in what was then called Midway Village. In 1834, after several name changes, it was officially named Rockford after the rocky ford on the Rock River. In its early days, Rockford grew as a manufacturing center for agricultural machinery and furniture production. The availability of water power from nearby rivers made it an ideal location for factories. By 1852, it became incorporated as a village and continued to grow rapidly with new industries such as textiles and paper mills being established. In addition to industry growth, education also played a significant role in shaping Rockford's history. In 1847, Jane Addams - who would later become famous for her work at Hull House in Chicago - founded one of the first kindergarten programs in America in Rockford. In 1892, Swedish philanthropist John A.B Peterson donated funds to build what is now known as Rock Valley College - one of the oldest community colleges in Illinois. During World War II, many companies in Rockford shifted their focus to war-related production including aircraft engines and munitions which brought economic prosperity to the city during this time. In more recent years, there have been several notable events that have impacted Rockford's history. One significant event occurred on August 15th-16th ,1968 when severe flooding hit parts of Northern Illinois including downtown Rockford causing widespread damage and loss of life. Another important moment came when President Barack Obama visited his hometown on February 12th ,2009 where he gave his first major economic address as president at the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Today, Rockford is a diverse and thriving city with a population of over 150,000 people. It is home to many cultural attractions such as the Anderson Japanese Gardens, Midway Village Museum, and the Burpee Museum of Natural History. The city also hosts several annual events including the Cherry Valley Festival Days and On The Waterfront - one of Illinois' largest music festivals. Despite facing challenges like other mid-sized cities in America such as urban decay and poverty, Rockford continues to evolve and grow. Its rich history has shaped it into a vibrant community that celebrates its past while looking towards a bright future.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality and innovative boats. However, few may know that this renowned company has deep roots in Rockford, Illinois. The history of Crestliner can be traced back to 1946 when two brothers, Willis and Carlyle Heid founded the company under the name "Alumacraft Boat Company" in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Heid brothers had a passion for fishing and saw an opportunity to create affordable aluminum boats for recreational use. They started by making small fishing boats with riveted aluminum hulls. Within a few years of operation, Alumacraft became one of the largest manufacturers of aluminum boats in North America. In 1953, they introduced their first fiberglass boat which was met with great success. This led them to expand their product line into larger runabouts and cruisers. In 1958, Alumacraft acquired another boat manufacturer called Lund Boats based in New York Mills, Minnesota. With this acquisition came new manufacturing facilities and expanded production capabilities. The following year, they changed their name from Alumacraft to Crestliner Industries Inc., taking inspiration from the popular car model at that time – Ford Crestline. With their successful expansion into fiberglass boat production and increased demand for larger models, it was clear that Crestliner needed more space than what was available at their existing location in Minneapolis. After much consideration and research on potential locations across Midwest states like Wisconsin and Iowa; Rockford emerged as the best option due to its proximity to major water bodies such as Lake Michigan. In 1961, just fifteen years after its inception; Crestliner moved its headquarters from Minneapolis to Rockford where it still stands today on Harrison Avenue near Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD). This move brought about significant growth opportunities for both Crestliner and the city of Rockford itself. One key factor that contributed to the success of Crestliner in Rockford was the availability of a skilled workforce. The city had a long history of manufacturing, particularly in the automotive industry, which provided a pool of experienced workers for Crestliner's production lines. This allowed them to maintain their commitment to quality and innovation while keeping up with increasing demand. Crestliner's move also brought about economic benefits to Rockford and its surrounding areas. It created hundreds of jobs, both directly and indirectly, boosting local businesses and contributing to the growth of the community. Over time, Crestliner became ingrained in Rockford's culture as a reputable employer and an essential part of its industrial landscape. In 1964, just three years after moving to Rockford; Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which also owned brands like Evinrude and Johnson motors. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its product line with new models such as aluminum bass boats designed specifically for competitive fishing tournaments. Throughout its history in Rockford, Crestliner has faced many challenges but has always come out stronger because of it. In 2000, OMC declared bankruptcy due to financial difficulties caused by changing consumer preferences towards larger fiberglass boats rather than smaller aluminum ones. However, this setback turned into an opportunity when Brunswick Corporation acquired OMC along with all its subsidiaries including Crestliner. With Brunswick's backing came significant investments in research & development resulting in some groundbreaking innovations like SureMount Gunnel System – an adjustable accessory mounting system that allows owners to customize their boat according to their needs. Today under Brunswick ownership; Crestliner continues to thrive as one of the leading manufacturers of recreational boats worldwide. Its headquarters remain firmly rooted in Rockford where it employs over 500 people who are dedicated not only producing high-quality boats but also giving back through various charitable initiatives within the community. In conclusion; from humble beginnings as Alumacraft in Minnesota to becoming a household name in the boating industry, Crestliner has come a long way. Its move to Rockford marked a significant turning point for the company and the city itself. It is a shining example of how cooperation between businesses and communities can lead to mutual growth and success. As Crestliner continues its legacy in Rockford, it will always be remembered as one of the key contributors to the city's industrial landscape and economic development.

Crestliner is a well-known and respected brand in the boating industry, with a history dating back over 75 years. Founded in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946 by William Morser Sr., Crestliner has become synonymous with quality, durability, and innovation. Initially known as the Aluminum Boat Company, Crestliner's first models were simple flat-bottomed aluminum boats used for fishing and transportation on local lakes. However, it wasn't long before the company began to expand its offerings and establish itself as a leader in the boating industry. Innovation has been at the heart of Crestliner since its inception. In 1951, they introduced their signature "Tapered V" design that provided better handling and performance on rough water. This design became an industry standard and set Crestliner apart from other boat manufacturers. Throughout the decades, Crestliner continued to push boundaries and introduce new features to improve their boats' functionality and performance. In 1964 they developed one of the first welded aluminum hulls which was stronger than traditional riveted designs. They also introduced double-riveted seams for added strength. In addition to technical innovations, Crestliner was also ahead of its time when it came to marketing strategies. In the early days of television advertising, they utilized celebrity endorsements from famous anglers like Ted Williams to promote their products. By constantly evolving and adapting to market trends and consumer demands, Crestliner solidified its position as an industry leader throughout the second half of the 20th century. Today,Crestlinern continues this tradition of innovation with modern technologies such as advanced engineering software programs that allow them to create precise hull designs for maximum performance on different types of water bodies. They have also incorporated eco-friendly practices into their manufacturing processes by using recycled materials wherever possible. One notable aspect about Crestlinern is their commitment towards sustainability efforts including conservation initiatives aimed at preserving natural resources necessary for recreational boating. They have partnered with organizations such as the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) to promote sustainable boating practices. In terms of product offerings, Crestliner has a wide range of boats designed for various purposes, including fishing, cruising, and watersports. Their models are known for their durability and versatility, making them popular among both recreational boaters and professional anglers. One of their most popular lines is the Fish Hawk series which includes boats specifically designed for freshwater fishing. These models feature an all-welded aluminum hull construction that can withstand rough conditions on lakes and rivers. They also come equipped with features like livewells, rod storage, and spacious casting decks to enhance the angling experience. For those looking for a more luxurious boating experience,Crestlinern offers the Sportfish line which includes larger vessels with amenities such as comfortable seating arrangements, entertainment systems, and full kitchens. Another noteworthy aspect of Crestliner's brand is its commitment to customization. Customers can choose from a variety of options when building their boat to suit their specific needs and preferences. This level of personalization sets Crestliner apart from other manufacturers in the market. Crestliner's dedication to quality extends beyond just their products but also in customer service. The company has an extensive network of dealers across North America who are trained to provide exceptional support throughout every stage - from purchase to maintenance or repair. Additionally,Crestlinern provides comprehensive warranties on all its products ensuring customers peace of mind when investing in one of their boats. In recent years,Crestlinern has expanded its global reach by partnering with Brunswick Corporation- one of the world’s leading marine companies based out in Mettawa,Illinois.Collaborations like these have allowed them access into international markets where they continue setting trends through groundbreaking innovations while maintaining high-quality standards synonymous with the crest liner brand name In conclusion,Crestliner has established itself as a household name in the boating industry, with its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. With over 75 years of experience and an ever-growing product line,Crestliner is poised to continue leading the way in the marine world for many more years to come. Whether you are looking for a fishing boat or a luxurious cruiser,Crestlinern has something to offer every type of boater.