Mercury Marine is a well-known brand in the marine industry, known for its high-quality outboard motors and other marine products. The company has a long and rich history, with roots dating back to 1939 in Wisconsin. However, Mercury's presence in Savanna, Illinois has played an important role in the growth of the company. In 1973, Mercury Marine expanded its operations by acquiring Kiekhaefer Corporation located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. This acquisition gave Mercury access to new technologies and markets which allowed them to become one of the top players in the boating industry. One of those acquired divisions was located in Savanna, Illinois – a small town situated along Mississippi River. The Savanna facility originally belonged to Kiekhaefer Corporation and was primarily used for manufacturing stern drives (also called Inboard/Outboard engines) under the brand name MerCruiser. These stern drives were popular among recreational boaters as they provided better handling and maneuverability compared to traditional outboard motors. However, after being acquired by Mercury Marine, this facility underwent significant changes that turned it into a major production hub for all types of outboard motors - from small portable engines up to large V-8 models producing over 400 horsepower. Under new ownership and management by Brunswick Corporation (parent company of Mercury), this former agricultural equipment factory quickly transformed into an advanced engineering center focused on innovation within marine power systems development. Today it employs about 1,500 people directly or indirectly through suppliers making it one of the largest employers in Carroll County. Since its establishment more than four decades ago as part of Brunswick’s family-owned enterprise; this state-of-the-art plant produces thousands upon thousands of units annually using complex robotic technology supported by highly skilled workers operating modern computerized machinery which ensures high quality standards are met consistently throughout every shift worked at this location. With such advanced capabilities embedded into all aspects surrounding how today's Mercury Marine products are designed, sourced and manufactured; it is no surprise that this company has firmly cemented its spot as the world’s leading producer of recreational boat engines. The Savanna plant isn't just a manufacturing facility, but also serves as an important research and development center for Mercury Marine. The team at Savanna continuously works on improving existing products and developing new technologies to meet the ever-changing needs of boaters. Their efforts have resulted in several breakthroughs over the years, such as the introduction of electronic fuel injection systems in outboard motors. In addition to their commitment to innovation and quality, Mercury Marine has also been deeply involved within the local community since establishing their presence in Savanna. They have contributed significantly towards various projects aimed at promoting economic growth, supporting education initiatives for young people while upholding environmental preservation standards ensuring safe waterways throughout Illinois. One notable project undertaken by Mercury was their partnership with Carroll County School District to establish a vocational training program specifically focused on preparing students for careers in advanced manufacturing. This program not only provides valuable skills to students but also helps fill job vacancies within Mercury's workforce. Furthermore, Mercury Marine is dedicated to environmentally responsible practices through implementing sustainable operations at all levels – from reducing energy consumption by using renewable sources wherever possible down to recycling waste materials created during production processes or packaging used when shipping units worldwide. In conclusion, the history of Mercury Marine in Savanna, Illinois is one filled with growth and success. From its humble beginnings as part of Kiekhaefer Corporation to becoming one of Brunswick Corporation's top-performing divisions today; this location continues playing a vital role towards keeping America’s marine industry competitive globally while maintaining strong ties within its surrounding communities where employees live. Through technological advancements, dedication to quality and innovation, commitment towards community welfare initiatives alongside environmentally conscious practices - it is clear that this facility located along Mississippi River truly embodies what makes American businesses great: hard work coupled with a deep sense of purpose.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of boat engines and marine propulsion systems, based in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer and has since become one of the most well-known names in the boating industry. The history of Mercury Marine began with its founder, Carl Kiekhaefer. Originally from Mequon, Wisconsin, Kiekhaefer was an engineer who had previously worked for Evinrude Motors. In 1939, he purchased a small outboard motor manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company and moved it to his hometown of Fond du Lac. Under Kiekhaefer's leadership, the company quickly expanded and gained a reputation for producing high-quality motors that were reliable and efficient. By the end of World War II, Mercury Marine had become one of the largest producers of outboard motors in the world. In 1946, after receiving numerous requests from customers for larger boat engines, Mercury Marine introduced its first V-8 engine – the Thunderbolt Four – which could produce up to 25 horsepower. This was a major breakthrough at the time as most other manufacturers were still using two-stroke engines with lower power outputs. Throughout the decade that followed, Mercury continued to innovate and expand its product line. In 1957 they released their first stern drive unit – known as Mercruiser – which allowed boats to be propelled through both an outboard motor on deck as well as an additional propeller under water. By this point in time, Mercury had already established itself as a leader in recreational boating but they weren't content with just dominating that market segment. In 1963 they entered into partnership with Brunswick Corporation - another leading marine manufacturer - which opened up new opportunities for growth within commercial vessels such as fishing boats and even military applications. The following decades saw more technological advancements from Mercury including fuel injection systems, electronic fuel management, and digital throttle and shift controls. In 1988 they released the OptiMax engine – the first direct-injection two-stroke outboard motor – which not only increased performance but also significantly reduced emissions. In 2004, Mercury Marine became a division of Brunswick Corporation and continued to expand its product range. They entered into partnerships with other major manufacturers such as Sea Ray Boats, Bayliner Boats, Boston Whaler and Lund Boats to provide them with engines for their vessels. Today, Mercury Marine offers a wide range of products including outboard motors ranging from small portable engines up to high-performance V-8s for sport fishing boats. They also produce inboard engines for larger vessels as well as sterndrive units under their Mercruiser brand. Mercury has remained at the forefront of innovation within the marine industry by investing heavily in research and development. Their engineers are constantly working on new technologies that can improve performance while reducing environmental impact. One example of this is their current line-up of FourStroke outboard motors which use advanced technology such as multi-point electronic fuel injection to deliver better fuel economy without compromising on power or torque. In addition to producing top-of-the-line boat engines, Mercury also places a strong emphasis on customer service. They have an extensive network of dealerships around the world who offer sales support as well as maintenance services for all types of boats powered by Mercury engines. The company also prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and protecting the environment. In recent years they have implemented initiatives such as recycling programs for used oil filters and batteries at their facilities. Furthermore, through partnerships with organizations like The Ocean Foundation and Ducks Unlimited Canada, Mercury supports conservation efforts aimed at preserving our waterways for future generations to enjoy. In conclusion, over its more than 80-year history, Mercury Marine has established itself not just as a leading manufacturer in the boating industry but also as a pioneer in innovation, technology, and sustainability. From its humble beginnings in Wisconsin to becoming a global brand, Mercury has remained committed to providing the best products and services for boaters around the world. As they continue to push boundaries and strive for excellence, it is clear that Mercury Marine will remain an integral part of recreational and commercial boating for years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, and has been a major presence in Savanna, Illinois for over 80 years. The company's history in the town dates back to 1939 when it first established its operations on the banks of the Mississippi River. At that time, Mercury Marine was known as Kiekhaefer Corporation and was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer. The company initially produced outboard motors for small boats and quickly gained recognition for their high-quality products. As demand grew, so did the company's facilities in Savanna. In 1946, Mercury Marine acquired a large plot of land along the river to build its new headquarters and production plant. This move allowed them to expand their product line to include larger boat engines and establish themselves as an industry leader. Throughout the following decades, Mercury Marine continued to grow its operations in Savanna with multiple expansions to its facilities. In addition to manufacturing outboard motors, they also began producing stern drives (inboard-outboard) engines in 1961. The company faced some challenges during this period including labor strikes and changes in ownership but remained committed to staying rooted in Savanna. In fact, Mercury Marine became one of the largest employers in town with over 2,000 employees at one point. In recent years, Mercury Marine has invested heavily into modernizing their operations while still keeping their headquarters located along the Mississippi River. Along with advancements in technology came increased efficiency which allowed them to consolidate some of their other locations across North America into their main facility in Savanna. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be a major economic force within Savanna providing hundreds of jobs and contributing significantly to local businesses through partnerships with suppliers and vendors. Beyond commercial success though,Mercury Marine is deeply involved within community initiatives such as supporting local schools through various programs like sponsoring robotics teams or providing scholarships for students pursuing careers related to the marine industry. Furthermore, the company is also committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented numerous initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint. This includes investing in renewable energy sources and implementing eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Overall, Mercury Marine's history in Savanna, Illinois is one of growth, resilience, and community involvement. Their presence has not only brought economic benefits but also helped shape the town's identity as a hub for marine manufacturing.

Savanna, Illinois is a small city located in the northwestern part of the state. It is situated along the Mississippi River and is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and vast plains. With a population of just over 3,000 people, Savanna may seem like just another quiet Midwestern town. However, this charming city has a rich history and unique characteristics that make it stand out. The area where Savanna now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk, Fox, and Winnebago. They were attracted to the region for its abundant wildlife and fertile land for farming. In the early 1800s, European settlers began to arrive in search of new opportunities and started building homes and businesses. One of the key factors that contributed to Savanna's growth was its location on the Mississippi River. The river became an important transportation route for goods coming from other parts of Illinois as well as neighboring states like Iowa and Wisconsin. This led to an increase in trade and commerce which brought prosperity to the town. In 1839, Savanna officially became incorporated as a village with John Bowen serving as its first president. However, it wasn't until after the Civil War that Savanna experienced significant growth with industries such as lumbering, milling, brickmaking,and manufacturing taking off. Today, one can still see remnants of these industries throughout Savanna's architecture including several beautifully restored Victorian homes built during this period. One notable landmark in Savanna is Havencrest Castle - a stunning mansion built in 1897 by railroad magnate Augustus J.C Hartzell. The castle boasts intricate detailing both inside and out making it one of Illinois' most treasured architectural gems. Aside from its historical significance, nature also plays a prominent role in defining what makes Savanna special.The Great River Bike Trail runs through town providing scenic views of both sides of the river while offering visitors great biking or walking opportunities. If you prefer to be on the water, there are also boat rentals available for an enjoyable day out on the river. Savanna is also known as a haven for birdwatchers with its close proximity to the Mississippi Flyway – a major migratory route for birds. The nearby Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge is home to over 240 species of birds making it a popular destination among nature enthusiasts. Another unique feature of Savanna is its connection to one of America's most beloved comic strips - "Popeye." Creator Elzie Crisler Segar was born in Chester, Illinois but spent much of his childhood in Savanna where he found inspiration for his famous characters such as Olive Oyl and Bluto. Today, visitors can take a walk through downtown and see several murals depicting Popeye and friends or visit the annual Popeye Picnic held every September. Despite being a small town, Savanna has plenty of events throughout the year that bring residents together. The city hosts an annual Christmas Walk featuring festive decorations, live music performances,and local vendors selling holiday treats. In August, people flock to town for Cruise Night - an event that showcases classic cars from all over the country. In recent years, Savanna has faced some challenges including economic downturns and natural disasters such as flooding along the Mississippi River. However,the community has shown resilience by coming together during these tough times. It's undeniable that Savanna holds a special place in both history books and hearts alike.The combination of its rich past,picturesque location,and strong sense of community make it truly one-of-a-kind.With ongoing efforts towards preservation and revitalization,Savannais readyto welcome visitorswith open armsand continue writing new chaptersinits already storied legacy.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems and engines. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has evolved into an industry leader with a rich history of innovation and success. The story of Mercury Marine began when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a small outboard motor company called Thorwaldson Motor Company in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Originally intending to use the company as a supplier for his other business ventures, Kiekhaefer quickly realized the potential of the boating industry and decided to shift his focus solely on manufacturing outboard motors. In 1940, the first production model known as “K1” was introduced by Mercury Marine. Despite initial issues with engine performance and quality control, Kiekhaefer’s determination led to continuous improvements which resulted in increased sales. By 1942, Mercury had become one of the top five players in the outboard motor market. During World War II, Mercury played an important role in producing military-grade engines for boats used by both Allied forces and Axis powers. This experience not only helped strengthen their engineering capabilities but also contributed significantly to their financial stability during post-war years. Innovation became a key driver for growth at Mercury Marine throughout its history. In 1947 they launched "Super Hurricane" - their first four-cylinder two-cycle engine that produced more power than any other outboard motor at that time. The following year saw another breakthrough with “Mark55”, which was capable of reaching speeds up to 50 miles per hour – something unheard of at that time. As demand for recreational boating continued to rise after World War II, so did competition within the industry. To stay ahead in this competitive landscape, Mercury focused on developing new technologies such as electric starting systems and automatic gear shifts for easier operation by novice users. In 1956 came one of their most significant innovations – the “Merc 200”, which was the first outboard motor to reach speeds of over 100 miles per hour. This breakthrough helped solidify Mercury’s position as a leader in high-performance engines and propelled them into the racing world. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line by introducing stern drive models, multiple engine configurations for different boat sizes, and even venturing into producing their own boats. They also established a strong presence in international markets with manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Australia, Canada, Mexico, and Japan. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Mercury Marine experienced some setbacks due to an economic downturn and increased competition from Japanese manufacturers. However, they were able to bounce back by focusing on developing more fuel-efficient engines that met stricter environmental regulations while maintaining high performance standards. The new millennium brought further growth opportunities for Mercury Marine as they acquired other marine companies such as MerCruiser (a manufacturer of sterndrive units) and Quicksilver (manufacturer of propellers). These acquisitions allowed them to offer customers a complete package when it came to propulsion systems for boats. In recent years, technological advancements have been at the forefront of innovation at Mercury Marine. In partnership with Ilmor Engineering Inc., they developed "Verado", an innovative supercharged four-stroke engine that revolutionized boating with its quiet operation and smooth performance. They also introduced "Joystick Piloting" technology which makes maneuvering large boats easier than ever before. Today, Mercury Marine continues to lead the industry in innovation while staying true to their core values of quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. Their commitment towards sustainability is evident through their efforts towards minimizing environmental impact through sustainable manufacturing processes. With over eight decades of experience in designing reliable marine propulsion systems coupled with continuous research & development investments; it's no surprise that Mercury has earned numerous accolades including the prestigious "IMTEC Innovation Award" for their electric outboard motor and “CSI Award” for customer satisfaction. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has a long and impressive history of setting the standard in marine propulsion systems. Their relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to quality has established them as an industry leader that shows no signs of slowing down. As they continue to evolve with changing market dynamics, it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will remain a driving force in the boating industry for years to come.

Mercury Marine is a division of the Brunswick Corporation and is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer as Kiekhaefer Corporation, with its initial focus on manufacturing outboard motors for commercial use. In the early years, Mercury faced tough competition from other established brands such as Johnson and Evinrude. However, through innovative engineering and marketing tactics, the company quickly gained recognition in the boating industry. In fact, during World War II, Mercury produced propulsion systems for military boats which helped to establish their reputation for quality and reliability. In 1946, Kiekhaefer Corporation officially changed its name to Mercury Marine to reflect its growing success in the marine industry. Throughout the following decades, Mercury continued to expand its product line beyond just outboard motors. In 1957 they introduced their first sterndrive engine (inboard/outboard) called Mercruiser which quickly became a popular choice among recreational boaters. As technology advanced, so did Mercury's products. They were one of the first companies to introduce electronic fuel injection into their engines in 1985 and then followed up with digital throttle and shift controls in 1994. These advancements not only improved performance but also made boating easier and more enjoyable for users. In addition to innovation within their products, Mercury has also expanded globally throughout its history. In 1961 they opened an international division based in Belgium which allowed them to better serve customers outside of North America. Today they have a presence in over 100 countries around the world. Another significant milestone for Mercury came when they acquired Quicksilver Products Company LLC in 2000 - a leading supplier of marine parts and accessories worldwide. This acquisition allowed them to offer a full range of products including propellers, gauges, controls systems and more under one brand name. Throughout its history,Mercury Marine has received numerous awards and accolades for its products, including being named the Official Outboard Engine Supplier of American Bass Anglers in 2018. They have also been recognized for their dedication to environmental sustainability with multiple "Green Masters" awards from the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be a leader in the marine industry with a wide range of outboard and sterndrive engines, parts, and accessories. Their commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has solidified their position as one of the top brands in boating. From commercial use to recreational boating, Mercury Marine has a long history of providing reliable propulsion systems that help people enjoy their time on the water.

Savanna, Illinois is a small city located in the northwestern part of the state. It is situated along the Mississippi River and has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The area was first inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox before European settlers arrived. Early Settlement The first European settler in Savanna was George Honens who built a trading post on what is now known as Sac Island. He traded with both Native Americans and French traders for furs and other goods. In 1833, Ebenezer Blakeslee established a ferry across the Mississippi River, which helped increase trade and settlement in the area. Incorporation Savanna officially became incorporated as a town in 1857 when it separated from neighboring Hanover Township. This allowed for more local control over government affairs and led to further growth of the town. Railroad Expansion One of Savanna's major milestones occurred with railroad expansion in the mid-19th century. In 1861, construction began on two rail lines that would connect Chicago to Council Bluffs, Iowa through Savanna – one owned by Chicago & North Western Railway Company (C&NW) and another by Illinois Central Railroad (IC). These railroads brought economic prosperity to Savanna as they provided transportation for goods such as lumber, coal, agricultural products, and passengers. Civil War Era During this time period, many residents of Savanna enlisted or were drafted into service during the Civil War. The town also served as an important supply depot for Union troops stationed nearby at Camp Smithton (now known as Fort Sheriden). The Great Fire of 1879 On August 16thof 1879,a devastating fire broke out that destroyed almost all of downtown Savanna's business district including homes along Main Street. Despite this tragedy,the community came togetherto rebuildthe town quicklyand even incorporated fire safety codes into the new buildings. Industrialization In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Savanna saw an influx of industries such as lumber mills, brick factories, and foundries. The C&NW railroad also built a large roundhouse in Savanna which employed many residents. These industries provided jobs and boosted the local economy. Flood Control The Mississippi River has always been a significant presence in Savanna's history, both for its importance in trade and commerce but also for its potential to cause destruction through flooding. In response to this threat, the US Army Corps of Engineers began construction on levees along the river in 1929. This project was completed in 1937 and helped protect the town from future floods. Modern Era As with many small towns across America, Savanna faced economic decline throughout much of the second half of the 20th century due to changes in industry and transportation methods. However,in recent years,the city has seen revitalization efforts led by community leaders who are dedicated to preserving its historic charm while promoting tourism and economic growth. Tourism Savanna is home to several attractions that draw visitors from near and far. One notable destination is Palisades State Park – a scenic area known for its limestone cliffs overlooking the Mississippi River. Another popular spot is Havencrest Castle – a grand mansion built by Frank Dohm during Prohibition era that now serves as a bed-and-breakfast inn. Celebrating History The citizens of Savannatake great pridein their town'shistoryandare committedto preserving itfor future generations.Annual events such as Heritage Days Festival celebrate Savanna's cultural heritage with activities including reenactments,demonstrations,and tours.Additionally,the Noble Center Museum offers educational programs about local history year-round.Even downtown storefronts pay homage to past times with murals depicting scenes from earlier eras. In conclusion, Savanna, Illinois has a long and storied history that is intertwined with the Mississippi River and the railroad industry. Despite challenges such as natural disasters and economic decline, the town has persevered through its strong community spirit and dedication to preserving its past while embracing new opportunities for growth. Today,Savanna continues to be a charming destination for tourists who are drawn to its rich history, scenic beauty,and friendly residents.

Savanna is a small city located in northwest Illinois, situated along the Mississippi River. The area was inhabited by Native American tribes for thousands of years before European settlers arrived. In 1673, French explorers Louis Jolliet and Jacques Marquette traveled down the Mississippi River and were likely the first Europeans to pass through what is now Savanna. In the late 1700s, fur traders established trading posts in the area, but it wasn't until after the Black Hawk War of 1832 that permanent settlement began. The town of Savanna was officially founded in 1837 by George B. Sargent and David Preston Galloway. It was named after Savanna City, New York where Sargent had previously lived. In its early days, Savanna served as an important shipping port for goods traveling up and down the Mississippi River. The arrival of railroads in the mid-1800s brought even more growth to Savanna's economy. The Chicago & North Western Railway built a bridge across the river at Savanna, allowing trains to cross into Iowa on their way westward. This made Savanna an important transportation hub for trade between eastern cities like Chicago and western states such as California. During this time period, many industries also developed in Savanna including lumber mills, foundries, brick factories and meat packing plants. These industries provided jobs for many residents and helped boost economic growth throughout the late 19th century. In addition to its thriving economy, Savanna also played a role in political history when Abraham Lincoln stopped there during his campaign tour leading up to his election as President of United States in 1861. However ,the devastating Great Flood of 1919 caused significant damage to many buildings along Main Street and resulted in several deaths within the community.With help from neighboring towns as well as state assistance,the town rebuilt itself over time with new structures being raised above flood levels which still remain today. The 20th century saw Savanna continue to grow and prosper with the addition of new businesses, schools, and churches. The town also became a popular destination for tourists looking to explore the Mississippi River and its surrounding nature. In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve Savanna's historic buildings and landmarks. The city's Main Street has been designated as a National Historic District, featuring well-preserved examples of Victorian architecture from the late 1800s. Today, Savanna is home to approximately 3,000 residents who take pride in their community's rich history and small-town charm. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and hiking along the river or explore local shops and restaurants on Main Street. The annual "Savanna Days" festival celebrates the town's heritage with parades, live music performances, food vendors,and other fun events for all ages. From its early days as a French trading post to its role in shaping Midwest transportation routes,Savanna has played an important part in Illinois' history. It continues to be a vibrant community that showcases both its past and present through its thriving economy,bustling downtown area,and strong sense of community spirit.

Mercury Marine is a leading global manufacturer of outboard motors and marine engines. The company has a rich history that dates back over 80 years, with its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. However, Savanna, Illinois also plays an important role in the company's history. In the early 1900s, Carl Kiekhaefer founded Kiekhaefer Corporation in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. The company initially manufactured magnetic separators for dairy farms but later expanded into producing small gasoline engines for boat propulsion. In 1939, Kiekhaefer introduced his first outboard motor called "the Lightning" at the New York Boat Show. Despite receiving positive reviews from customers and experts alike, production was halted due to World War II. During this time, Kiekhaefer shifted his focus to manufacturing military equipment such as generators and chainsaws. After the war ended in 1945, Kiekhaefer returned to producing outboard motors under the name Mercury Marine Engineering Company. He moved operations from Cedarburg to Oshkosh before finally settling on a permanent location in Fond du Lac. However, it wasn't until 1956 that Mercury Marine acquired a plant in Savanna from an old tractor factory owned by John Deere Plow Co. This acquisition proved vital for Mercury Marine's growth as it allowed them to expand their production capacity and meet increasing demand for their products. The Savanna plant became known as Plant #2 within the company's operations hierarchy and was primarily used for casting aluminum parts needed for manufacturing engines. It was also responsible for assembling smaller components such as fuel tanks and electrical systems. As business continued to grow throughout the late 1950s and into the '60s,' more expansions were made at Plant #2 to keep up with demand. In addition to creating more jobs within Savanna itself, this expansion helped boost economic activity within surrounding areas as well. One of the most significant milestones for Mercury Marine in Savanna was the introduction of their first V6 engine in 1962. This new, more powerful engine quickly became a hit among boaters and led to an increase in production at Plant #2. In 1970, Kiekhaefer Corporation officially changed its name to Mercury Marine to align with its popular brand name. By this time, the company had established itself as one of the top manufacturers in the marine industry and continued to grow throughout the '70s and '80s. In 1998, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine from Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), who had filed for bankruptcy. This acquisition brought about significant changes within the company's operations but did not affect production or jobs at Plant #2 in Savanna. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury Marine continued to innovate and expand its product line while maintaining a strong presence in Savanna. In fact, between 2009-2011, they invested over $30 million into upgrading facilities at Plant #2 to improve efficiency and meet increasing demand for their products. The Savanna plant has also played a crucial role during times of crisis. When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans' manufacturing plants in 2005, causing major disruptions within the marine industry supply chain, Mercury Marine stepped up by utilizing their resources at Plant #2 to produce parts needed for boat repairs and maintenance across affected areas. Today, over six decades after acquiring Plant #2 in Savanna, it remains an essential part of Mercury Marine's overall operations. The plant continues to produce high-quality components used in manufacturing outboard motors and is responsible for creating hundreds of jobs within Savanna and surrounding communities. Mercury Marine's history in Savanna showcases how a small-town factory can have such a significant impact on a global company's success. It is a testament to hard work, innovation, resilience through challenging times that have helped Mercury Marine become the industry leader it is today. The company's commitment to its employees and the communities in which it operates has solidified its place as a cornerstone of American manufacturing history.

Mercury Marine is a world-renowned manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, parts, and accessories. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has established itself as a leader in the boating industry through its innovative technologies and commitment to excellence. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has grown from a small backyard operation to a global company with over 6,000 employees and distribution networks spanning across six continents. The company's success can be attributed to its strong focus on research and development, customer satisfaction, and environmental sustainability. One of the key factors that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is their dedication to continuous innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development each year to improve their products' performance, reliability, and efficiency. This commitment to innovation has resulted in numerous patents for technology such as fuel-injection systems for outboard motors and joystick piloting systems for boats. In addition to technological advancements, Mercury Marine also prioritizes customer satisfaction. They offer an extensive line of engines ranging from 2 horsepower all the way up to 600 horsepower for various types of boats –from recreational fishing boats to high-performance racing boats. Their broad product range ensures that they have something suitable for every boater's needs. Moreover, the company places great emphasis on quality control at every stage of production –from sourcing raw materials to final assembly–to ensure that only top-quality products reach their customers. As a result of this attention to detail and quality assurance processes,Mercury Marine boasts one of the lowest warranty claim rates in the industry. Another notable aspect about Mercury Marine is their commitment towards environmental sustainability. They have implemented various initiatives throughout their manufacturing process aimed at reducing waste generationand minimizing carbon footprint.These include utilizing alternative energy sources such as solar power at some facilities,and implementing strict recycling programs.Additionally,the company works closely with regulatory agencies worldwide,to ensure compliance with emission standards set by various countries. Mercury Marine has also been a pioneer in developing environmentally-friendly marine engines. In 2004, they introduced the world's first four-stroke outboard engine that met the stringent California Air Resources Board (CARB) 3-star emissions standard –a feat that was unmatched in the industry at the time. Since then, Mercury Marine has continued to innovate and improve their products' environmental performance,resulting in more fuel-efficient and cleaner-running engines. The company strives to make boating accessible to everyone through its partnerships with organizations such as The Sea Scouts, a youth development program focused on teaching nautical skills and promoting boater safety. Theyalso offer training programs for dealershipsand customersaround the worldto ensure safe and proper usage of their products. In addition to producing top-quality engines,Mercury Marine is also renownedfor its extensive line of parts and accessories.Alongside manufacturing their own branded parts,the company also partners with other reputable brands such as Quicksilver Parts & Accessories.They provide boat ownerswith everything from propellers, steering systems,and control boxes,to gauges,filters,and oils.This allows for increased convenience,savings on maintenance costs,and peace of mind knowing all components are specifically designed for optimal compatibility with each other. Aside from catering to recreational boaters,Mercury Marine is also involved in commercial markets.Their range of products caters not onlyto leisurely activities,but alsoto commercial fishing boats,charter boats,police patrols,rescue operations,military vessels,and many others.These applications demand higher levels of reliability,durability,and performance–qualities that Mercury Marine consistently deliversthroughouttheir product lineup. With over eight decades of experience under its belt,Mercury Marinecontinues to be oneofthe most trusted namesintheboatingindustry.Itscommitmenttowards innovation,customer satisfaction,environmental sustainability,and community involvement have helped them maintain a dominant position in this competitive market. As the company looks towards the future, it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will continue to lead the way in revolutionizing the boating experience.