Crest Pontoons is a company that has been synonymous with quality and innovation in the recreational boating industry since its inception in 1957. Founded by Charles Bennett, Crest Pontoons has a rich history in St. Charles, Illinois. The story of Crest Pontoons begins with Charles Bennett's passion for boating. In the early days, he would travel to Wisconsin every summer just to rent a pontoon boat. However, after years of renting and seeing how popular pontoons were becoming, he decided it was time to start his own business. In 1957, Bennett founded Crest Marine and began manufacturing aluminum pontoons from his garage in St. Louis, Missouri. As the demand for pontoons grew rapidly over the next few years, Bennett moved his operations to St. Charles, Illinois – a decision that would prove instrumental in shaping the company's future success. St. Charles was an ideal location for Crest Marine due to its proximity to major waterways such as Fox River and Chain O'Lakes – making it easy for customers to access their boats on the weekends or during their vacations. As demand continued to rise for their high-quality pontoons, Crest Marine expanded its production facilities multiple times throughout the 1960s and 1970s – eventually becoming one of the largest manufacturers of pontoon boats in North America. However, it wasn't just about quantity for Crest Marine; they also focused on continuously improving their products' design and performance. In 1981 they introduced "the world's first all-aluminum decked pontoon," which set them apart from other manufacturers who still used wood decks at that time. This innovative move solidified Crest Pontoons as an industry leader and cemented their reputation as pioneers who didn't shy away from taking risks when it came down to product development. During this period of growth and expansion came another significant milestone - under new leadership from Bill Fenech, Crest Marine was renamed Crest Pontoons in 1991. The new name reflected the company's focus on manufacturing premium pontoon boats and becoming a household name in the boating industry. As the years went by, Crest Pontoons continued to evolve and innovate their product line. In 2004 they introduced fiberglass-encapsulated foam-filled tubes, providing customers with an even smoother ride while increasing buoyancy and durability. In addition to technological advancements, Crest Pontoons also made sure to partner with top-notch dealers across North America – ensuring their products were readily available for anyone looking for a quality pontoon boat. However, it wasn't just about business success for Crest Pontoons; they also cared deeply about giving back to the community that had supported them throughout the years. In 2013 they launched "Crest Cares," a program focused on philanthropy and community outreach initiatives. Through this program, Crest Pontoons has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to various charities such as Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and American Cancer Society Relay For Life events. Today, almost six decades since its founding in St Charles Illinois, Crest Pontoons continues to thrive under third-generation leadership from Steve Fenech – Bill Fenech's son. With over 60 different models ranging from fishing pontoons to luxury cruisers, there is no doubt that their commitment to innovation remains strong. The impact of Crest Pontoon's presence in St Charles goes beyond just economic growth; it has also contributed significantly towards making boating more accessible and enjoyable for families across North America. Their dedication towards continuous improvement has resulted in creating exceptional experiences on the water for countless people over the years. In conclusion, through its rich history dating back over six decades ago when Bennett founded it out of his garage until today where it stands as an industry leader - one thing remains constant: Crest Pontoon's unwavering passion for boating and its commitment to providing top-quality products. Their presence has undoubtedly been a significant influence on the growth of St. Charles as a hub for boating enthusiasts, and it will continue to do so in the years to come.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats, known for their top-of-the-line quality and innovative designs. Founded in 1957 by James R. Hebert, the company has grown from a small family business to one of the most recognized names in the boating industry. The history of Crest Pontoons can be traced back to its humble beginnings in Owosso, Michigan. James Hebert was an avid fisherman who enjoyed spending time on his boat with friends and family. Dissatisfied with the available options on the market at that time, he decided to build his own pontoon boat using aluminum pontoons instead of traditional wooden ones. Hebert's homemade boat caught the attention of other boaters and soon enough, he began receiving requests from people wanting him to build them one as well. This led him to start Crest Marine in 1957, which specialized in building custom-made pontoon boats. Innovation has always been at the core of Crest Pontoons' philosophy. In 1961, they introduced their first "Hovertube" design which allowed for better handling and performance on water compared to other pontoons at that time. This design innovation set Crest apart from its competitors and laid down a foundation for future success. Over the years, Crest continued to evolve with new designs and technologies such as adding more deck space for increased seating capacity and introducing fiberglass components into their boats for added strength and durability. They also started offering customizable options like different flooring materials, lighting packages,and sound systems making each boat unique based on individual preferences. By investing heavily in research and development, Crest created patented features such as CPT (Continuous Positive Tracking) hull technology – designed specifically for shallow water navigation – making it easier than ever before to navigate through difficult waters without worrying about getting stuck or damaging your craft. Another notable feature is their Lifted Edge Design technology which provides better stability during turns and reduces water spray, ensuring a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers. This has made Crest boats popular among families and watersports enthusiasts. Crest Pontoons also prides itself on using the highest quality materials in their production process. They use aluminum alloy that is specially designed for marine applications, making their pontoons lightweight yet strong enough to withstand harsh weather conditions and rough waters. The company also uses environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, utilizing recycled materials whenever possible. In addition to providing top-of-the-line products, Crest Pontoons places great emphasis on customer satisfaction. Their commitment to excellent customer service has earned them a loyal following of customers who continue to refer friends and family members to the brand. The success of Crest Pontoons can be seen through its numerous awards over the years. In 2019 alone, they received recognition as Top Product by Boating Industry Magazine, Best Value Pontoon by Pontoon & Deck Boat Magazine,and Customer Satisfaction Leader by NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association). Today, Crest continues its tradition of innovation with new models being introduced every year with enhanced features such as touch screen controls and customizable LED lighting packages. The company also offers a wide range of accessories such as wakeboard towers,sun shades,and fishing chairs – making it easy for boaters to personalize their boat according to their needs. Crest Pontoons' dedication towards quality craftsmanship, innovative designs,and exceptional customer service has solidified its position as one of the best pontoon manufacturers in the industry today. They have come a long way from their humble beginnings but still maintain Hebert's vision – building high-quality boats that allow people to create unforgettable memories on water with friends and family. In conclusion,Crest Pontoons stands out not only because of its history or award-winning designs but because it represents an ongoing pursuit towards excellence – always striving towards creating better experiences for boaters through constant innovation while maintaining superior levels of quality,customer service,and sustainability. Whether you are a first-time boat buyer or an experienced boater, Crest Pontoons is a brand that can be trusted to deliver top-notch products and exceptional experiences on the water.

Crest Pontoons is a well-known and established pontoon boat manufacturer located in St. Charles, Illinois. The company has a rich history that spans over six decades and has become one of the leading manufacturers of premium quality pontoons in the United States. The story of Crest Pontoons began in 1957 when four friends, Bob Ladd, Paul Robbins, George Hoffman, and Jim Markle came together to form Crest Marine in Owosso, Michigan. These four men had a shared passion for boating and saw an opportunity to create high-quality pontoons that could withstand the harsh conditions of freshwater lakes and rivers. Their first pontoon was built on a shoestring budget using simple materials like aluminum tubes for the frame and plywood decking. However, it proved to be very successful as it offered unmatched durability and stability compared to other boats on the market at that time. In 1960, they expanded their operations by opening another facility in Baldwin City, Kansas where they produced larger models with more advanced features such as reinforced hulls for better performance on rough waters. By the late 1960s, Crest Marine had gained recognition as one of the top pontoon manufacturers nationwide due to its commitment to innovation and excellent customer service. In 1972, they introduced their signature "Golden Nugget" series which featured luxurious interiors with plush seating options. In 1985, Crest Marine relocated its headquarters from Owosso to North Webster Indiana where it operated until being acquired by Brunswick Corporation in 1995. Under Brunswick's ownership,Crest continued its expansion plans by building new facilities across different states including Missouri,Tennessee,and Georgia. In 2013,Brunswick sold off several brands including Crest Pontoons which was then acquired by Maurell Products LLC,a subsidiary of Polaris Industries Inc.. This acquisition brought new energy into Crest’s product development efforts,resulting in innovative designs such as electric-powered pontoons and hybrid models. Today, Crest Pontoons is headquartered in St. Charles,Illinois,and continues to be a pioneer in the pontoon industry. The company offers a wide range of boats including luxury, fishing, and sport models that cater to various needs and preferences of boaters. Crest's commitment to quality craftsmanship, innovation, and customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards over the years. They continue to invest in research and development to improve their products while also maintaining their tradition of excellent customer service. In addition to its impressive product line,Crest Pontoons also prioritizes sustainability by using eco-friendly materials such as recycled aluminum for its boats. The company is dedicated to reducing its carbon footprint while still providing top-notch performance on the water. Overall, Crest Pontoons' long-standing history, dedication to innovation,and commitment towards sustainable practices have solidified its position as one of the most respected brands in the marine industry. As they continue to grow and evolve with changing times,Crest remains true to its roots by delivering high-quality pontoons that offer an exceptional boating experience for all.

St. Charles, Illinois is a charming and historic city located in Kane County, about 40 miles west of Chicago. With its picturesque riverfront, vibrant downtown area, and rich cultural heritage, St. Charles has become a popular destination for tourists and residents alike. The history of St. Charles dates back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by Native American tribes such as the Potawatomi and Sauk people. In 1834, brothers James and Joseph Osgood arrived from Vermont and purchased land along the Fox River to establish a farming community. As more settlers arrived in the area, St. Charles quickly grew into an important trading center due to its location on the Fox River which provided access to other towns along its banks. The town was officially incorporated in 1839 with a population of just over 100 people. One of the most significant events in St. Charles' history occurred during the mid-19th century when it became one of three stops on the Underground Railroad in Northern Illinois that helped slaves escape to freedom in Canada. In addition to being an important stop on this network of safe houses for escaped slaves, St.Charles also played a role in Abraham Lincoln's political career as he delivered speeches at local rallies before becoming President. Today, visitors can explore this fascinating part of history through guided tours at sites like The Fabyan Villa Museum & Japanese Garden or by visiting historical landmarks such as Baker Memorial United Methodist Church where abolitionists held meetings during this time period. Another key attraction that draws visitors to St.Charles is its beautiful natural landscape which includes parks along Fox River offering activities such as boating,fishing,and hiking trails.This combination makes it easy for residents living here year-round as well since they have outdoor recreational opportunities close by no matter what season it may be! St.Charles' downtown district is another major draw for both locals and tourists.With over six blocks of shops,restaurants,and entertainment options,the area has something for everyone.Visitors can stroll down Main Street and admire the well-preserved 19th-century buildings while browsing through unique boutiques or dining at one of the many restaurants that offer a variety of cuisine. One popular event in downtown St.Charles is the annual Scarecrow Festival which draws thousands of visitors each year.This festival celebrates autumn with scarecrow displays, live music, food vendors, and children's activities. It has become a beloved tradition for both locals and tourists alike. Another notable aspect of St.Charles is its commitment to preserving its heritage while also embracing modern developments.The city was awarded "Best Neighborhood Design" by Time Magazine in 2011 for its thoughtful planning and design that balances historic preservation with new development projects. St.Charles also takes pride in being a family-friendly community with highly-rated schools, parks, and recreational programs for all ages. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year such as outdoor concerts, art festivals, holiday parades,and farmers' markets that bring families together to enjoy their shared community. In recent years, St.Charles has experienced significant economic growth due to its strategic location between two major highways (I-90 & I-88) making it an ideal place for businesses to establish themselves. This growth has brought new job opportunities and an increase in housing options including single-family homes,townhouses,and apartments catering to different lifestyles. Despite its rapid development over the years, St.Charles remains committed to maintaining its small-town charm.As you walk around this quaint town,you will often see friendly faces greeting each other on the street,proudly displaying American flags outside their homes or participating in local charities.Volunteerism is deeply ingrained within this community's culture which speaks volumes about residents' strong sense of civic responsibility towards their hometown. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat from city life,a lively downtown scene filled with cultural events,or a place to raise a family,St.Charles offers it all.This picturesque city with its rich history and modern conveniences has something for everyone,and it's no surprise that many people choose to call St.Charles their home.

Crest Pontoons is a company that has been at the forefront of the pontoon boat industry for over 60 years. Started in 1957 by Bud Sorenson, Crest Pontoons began as a small family-owned business on the shores of Michigan’s Lake Bellaire. Today, it has evolved into one of the most recognized and respected names in the boating world. The History In its early days, Crest Pontoons was known as Maurell Products Company and primarily manufactured fishing boats. However, when Bud Sorenson saw an opportunity to revolutionize pontoon boats through advanced design and engineering techniques, he jumped on it. He believed that pontoons could be more than just simple floating platforms; they could be luxurious vessels for leisurely cruising and entertaining. Sorenson's vision came to life with his first prototype – “The Watercraft”- which had a unique round nose design that provided better stability and handling compared to traditional flat-nosed pontoons. The success of this prototype led to the development of other innovative designs such as “Mighty Mite,” which was considered one of their greatest achievements due to its lightweight construction. In 1960, Maurell Products Company officially became known as Crest Marine LLC, marking its transition from manufacturing fishing boats to focusing solely on luxury pontoons. This change paved the way for many groundbreaking innovations in pontoon design over subsequent decades. During these early years, Crest Marine also introduced various features such as full-length welded deck risers and custom-fitted upholstery – setting them apart from other manufacturers who were still using bolt-on components. These advancements helped solidify Crest Pontoons’ reputation for high-quality craftsmanship. Expansion & Innovation By 1971, demand for their superior products grew beyond Lake Bellaire’s shoreline prompting them to move into a larger facility nearby Elk Rapids where they remain headquartered today. With this expansion, Crest Pontoons’ production capabilities increased significantly, and they began exporting their boats to other parts of the United States. In 1975, Crest Marine introduced its first outboard-powered pontoon boat – another industry-first. This move allowed for greater flexibility in engine options, making their pontoons more versatile than ever before. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Crest Pontoons continued to innovate with features such as full-length crossmembers for added strength and durability, extended rear deck platforms for watersports enthusiasts and a patented “M” bracket system that reduced noise levels on board. The Turn of the Century As we entered into the new millennium, Crest Pontoons was acquired by Premier Marine Inc., who invested heavily in research and development to take this iconic brand to even greater heights. Under this new ownership, additional features were introduced such as fiberglass helm consoles – providing a sleeker look while adding storage space underneath. However, one of their most significant innovations came in 2002 when they launched the first-ever triple tube pontoon boat – The Caribbean Platinum Series. This model utilized three aluminum tubes instead of two found on traditional pontoons resulting in improved stability and performance on rough waters. Continued Success & Recognition Crest Pontoons has continued to expand its product line over recent years with models catering specifically to fishing enthusiasts (Savannah Sport Fish) or those seeking ultimate luxury (Cali Surf). They have also embraced technology by incorporating touchscreen helm controls allowing boaters easy access to various functions such as navigation systems or stereo controls. Their commitment to quality craftsmanship hasn’t gone unnoticed either; Crest Pontoons has received numerous accolades over the years including being named “Manufacturer of Excellence” by MRAA (Marine Retailers Association America), multiple NMMA CSI Awards (Customer Satisfaction Index) for outstanding customer service ratings and recognition from Boating Industry Magazine’s Top Products list. Today, Crest Pontoons’ product line includes over 20 different models ranging from compact fishing pontoons to luxurious party boats. Their reputation for innovation and exceptional quality continues to attract customers from all corners of the globe. Conclusion From its humble beginnings as a small family-owned business on Lake Bellaire, Crest Pontoons has grown into a globally recognized brand in the boating industry. Through continuous innovation and commitment to quality, they have set themselves apart from competitors and remain at the forefront of pontoon design. As we look towards the future, it is clear that Crest Pontoons will continue to push boundaries and revolutionize pontoon boating. With their dedication to providing an unparalleled boating experience, it is no surprise that they are often referred to as “the Cadillac of pontoons.” The legacy started by Bud Sorenson lives on through every vessel produced by this iconic company – making them one of the most respected names in the marine industry today.

Crest Pontoons is a leading manufacturer of luxury pontoon boats, known for their innovative designs and high-quality construction. The company has been in operation since 1957 and has a rich history in the marine industry. The story of Crest Pontoons begins in Owosso, Michigan when brothers David and John Eash started building wooden rowboats. They soon expanded into producing aluminum canoes and small fishing boats under the name "Eagle Craft." In the early 1960s, they introduced their first pontoon boat design after being inspired by a customer's request for a larger platform to use on lakes. In 1972, Eagle Craft was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which owned several well-known brands such as Johnson Outboards and Chris-Craft Boats. Under OMC’s ownership, the company continued to grow and develop new designs for pontoons. In 1988, Crest Pontoon Boats was officially established as its own brand within OMC. The company focused on creating luxury pontoons with superior craftsmanship and attention to detail. This led to innovations such as using thicker gauge aluminum for increased strength and durability, as well as incorporating features like plush seating options, built-in coolers, stereos systems, LED lighting systems, and more. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Crest Pontoons expanded its product line while maintaining its commitment to quality construction. In 2011,Oak Hill Capital Partners acquired Crest Marine from Genmar Holdings Inc., which had purchased OMC years earlier. Today,Crest Pontoons continues to be an industry leader in pontoon boat manufacturing with a wide range of models designed for different boating needs – from cruising around calm waters with family or friends to adventurous offshore excursions. Their boats are handcrafted at their state-of-the-art facility in Owosso,Michigan,and feature advanced engineering techniques and materials to provide a smooth, stable ride on the water. Crest Pontoons has won numerous awards for its innovative designs and commitment to customer satisfaction. The company's dedication to quality has made them one of the most trusted names in the pontoon boat industry. In 2019, Crest Pontoons was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, a leading marine manufacturer with a portfolio of well-known brands such as Sea Ray and Mercury Marine. This acquisition has allowed Crest Pontoons to expand its reach globally and continue its legacy of producing top-of-the-line pontoon boats. Today,Crest Pontoons remains committed to providing customers with unmatched luxury, performance, and reliability on the water. With over six decades of experience in the industry,Crest is poised for continued success as it looks towards the future of pontoon boating.

St. Charles, Illinois has a rich and storied history that dates back to the 19th century. It is a city steeped in tradition and community pride, with a vibrant downtown area and numerous historic landmarks. The land where St. Charles now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Potawatomi and Fox nations. However, it wasn't until the arrival of European settlers in the early 1800s that significant changes began to take place. In 1834, brothers Joseph and Moses Crane purchased over 1,700 acres of land along the Fox River from their father-in-law for $1.25 per acre. They saw potential in this fertile land surrounded by waterways and decided to establish a settlement there. They named their new town Charleston after their hometown of Charlestown, New York but due to confusion with another nearby town named Charleston, they changed its name to St. Charles in honor of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church which was founded around the same time. The Cranes built homes on Main Street (now known as East Main Street) near what is now First Avenue Bridge – making them some of the first permanent residents of St.Charles - while also running successful businesses including an inn/tavern which would become one of many popular stops for travelers on stagecoach routes between Chicago & Galena during this period. As word spread about this promising new town located just an hour west of bustling Chicago via steamboat or stagecoach transportation on newly developed roads such as Lincoln Highway (now Route 64), more people were drawn to settle here. One notable resident who moved to St.Charles during this time was James DuPage Jr., son of Revolutionary War veteran Captain James DuPage Sr., who established his homestead near present-day Dunham Castle – one of several prominent estates built later during City's wealthy era at turn-of-the-century into early-1900s. The construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in 1848 further boosted St. Charles' growth, making it a crucial transportation hub for goods and people traveling between Chicago and the Mississippi River. As the population grew, so did the need for infrastructure. In 1851, St. Charles was officially incorporated as a village with its first elected president, Joseph McCarty. The following year, a new courthouse was built to serve Kane County which included St.Charles at that time – although later moved to Geneva in 1892 - along with many other significant public buildings such as schools & churches constructed around this period. In addition to its economic importance, St.Charles also played a role in shaping American history during the mid-19th century. It served as an Underground Railroad station providing refuge and assistance to runaway slaves seeking freedom in Canada. During the Civil War era, many residents of St.Charles enlisted in Union forces while others supported their efforts through fundraisers and aid societies. After the war ended in 1865, several veterans settled here creating G.A.R Hall (Grand Army of Republic) on Main Street - now known as Baker Community Center after being converted into community center years ago - where they could gather together with fellow comrades-in-arms who fought alongside them during conflict there still stands today thanks largely due preservation efforts undertaken by local historical society organizations over decades since then St.Charles continued to thrive throughout late-1800s & early-1900s becoming home not only many prominent estate owners but also manufacturers like Standard Oil Company owner John D.Rockefeller's "River Bend" mansion located nearby his summer residence on Rock Island near Batavia Road bridge another notable landmark long gone from Cityscape), dairy farmers whose milk sold under brands like Cloverleaf Farms while Central School became one best-known educational institutions northern Illinois all before turn-of-the-century when electric trolley lines were laid enabling easier access downtown from surrounding areas. The Great Depression hit St.Charles hard with many businesses closing and residents struggling to make ends meet. But the community persevered, coming together to support each other through these difficult times. In the 1950s, St.Charles saw a revival as new industries such as steel manufacturing and electronics moved into the area. The population grew once again, and in 1968, St.Charles was officially incorporated as a city with its first mayor, Arthur Hennig. Over the years, St.Charles has continued to evolve while still maintaining its small-town charm and rich history. In 1985, it was designated as an official Main Street Community by the National Trust for Historic Preservation – recognizing its efforts in revitalizing downtown while preserving its historic character. Today, visitors can take a stroll down Main Street and see some of the same buildings that were built over a century ago. They can also visit notable landmarks like Hotel Baker (a former luxurious hotel now event venue), Arcada Theatre (a live performance venue established in 1926) or Pheasant Run Resort - where political & social figures often gather at events held there since establishment early-1960s St.Charles continues to be a thriving community with strong ties to its past. Its history is celebrated through annual festivals such as Scarecrow Fest – which started in 1985 - highlighting not only City's agricultural roots but also local artists who create unique scarecrows displayed throughout streets during autumn months leading up Halloween festivities kicking off holiday season here every year until December holidays wrap-up following month when Christmas lights strung across several blocks illuminate vibrant downtown landscape adding another layer festive atmosphere downtown during one busiest shopping seasons entire year here; Swedish Days Festival celebrating Scandinavian heritage an important part fabric this city's culture going back more than two centuries starting before turn-of-the-century when Swedes immigrated here seeking better opportunities America bringing customs traditions them which still live today. The city of St.Charles, Illinois is more than just a place to call home – it is a living testament to the resilience and determination of its residents throughout history. Its past has shaped its present, and with continued preservation efforts, it will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.

St. Charles, Illinois is a historic city located in the western suburbs of Chicago. The area was originally inhabited by the Potawatomi Native American tribe, who settled along the Fox River and used it as a trading route. In 1833, brothers James and Joseph St. Charles arrived in the area from New York and purchased land on both sides of the Fox River. They established a sawmill near what is now known as St. Charles Township and began to develop the area into a settlement. The town was officially named "Charlestown" after its founders, but later changed to St. Charles to avoid confusion with another town in Illinois with a similar name. In 1839, St. Charles became incorporated as a village. One of the key factors that contributed to St. Charles' growth was its location on the Fox River, which allowed for easy transportation of goods and access to nearby cities such as Chicago and Elgin. During this time period, agriculture played an important role in shaping St.Charles' economy; however, it wasn't until around 1850 when manufacturing industries began to emerge in the city due to its abundant water supply from the Fox River. In 1851, construction began on one of St.Charles' most iconic landmarks - Hotel Baker - which still stands today as one of Illinois' premier hotels. As more businesses and industries were established in St.Charles throughout the late 19th century, population growth followed suit. By 1880, there were over 2,000 residents living within city limits. The early part of the 20th century brought even more development to St.Charles with new schools being built and improvements made to roads and infrastructure. During World War II , many local factories shifted their production towards war efforts leading up until post-war economic boom that helped further expand industry within Saint Charles through increased demand for consumer goods like automobiles & appliances . Today, St.Charles remains a thriving community with a strong sense of history and preservation. The city has been recognized for its efforts in preserving historic buildings and landmarks, such as the Arcada Theatre which was built in 1926 and is still used for live performances today. The downtown area of St. Charles is also home to many local businesses, restaurants, and shops that give the city a charming small-town feel. In addition to its rich history, St.Charles also offers numerous recreational opportunities including parks, nature trails along the Fox River, and annual events such as the Scarecrow Festival - an event that draws thousands of visitors each year. Overall, the town of St.Charles has evolved from its humble beginnings as a settlement on the Fox River into a bustling suburban community with deep roots in agriculture and industry while maintaining its small-town charm. Its rich history continues to be celebrated and preserved by residents who take great pride in their city's heritage.

Located along the Fox River in northern Illinois, St. Charles is a picturesque city known for its historic downtown district, scenic riverfront views, and rich cultural heritage. One of the most notable businesses that has been an integral part of this community for over 50 years is Crest Pontoons. Crest Pontoons was founded in 1957 by Paul and John Haggerty as a small family-owned boat manufacturing company. The brothers had a passion for boating and saw a need for high-quality pontoon boats that could be used on both lakes and rivers. They set out to create innovative designs and build durable pontoons that would withstand the harsh waters of the Midwest. Initially located in Delavan, Wisconsin, Crest Pontoons moved their operations to St. Charles in 1965 after recognizing the potential for growth in this charming river town. With its prime location along the Fox River and access to major highways, St. Charles provided easy transportation options for shipping boats across the country. As Crest Pontoons continued to expand its product line and reputation throughout the decades, it became one of St.Charles' largest employers with over 300 employees at its peak. The company's commitment to quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction led them to become one of the top pontoon manufacturers in North America. Over time, Crest Pontoons underwent several ownership changes but remained true to their core values: providing exceptional products while maintaining strong ties within their local community. In 2006, they were acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in recreational boating – which allowed them access to advanced technologies and resources while still operating under their own brand name. In recent years, Crest Pontoons has continued to thrive under Brunswick's ownership with continuous innovation through research & development programs aimed at improving performance and design features of their boats while maintaining affordability for customers. One significant milestone came when they introduced "Waveglider" technology - a patent-pending feature that gave pontoon boats the ability to perform like traditional V-hull boats. This innovation allowed Crest Pontoons to expand its customer base beyond inland waterways and attract more buyers from coastal areas. In 2013, Crest Pontoons celebrated their 50th anniversary with a grand event on the Fox River, where they showcased their latest models and invited past employees and customers to join in the festivities. The event was not only a celebration of their success but also an opportunity for them to give back to the community by donating proceeds to local charities. Today, Crest Pontoons remains committed to St. Charles as its production facility continues to provide jobs for residents while bringing recognition and tourism opportunities for the city. In addition, they actively participate in various events such as "Paddlewheel Riverboats" – an annual river parade featuring decorated pontoons – which adds vibrancy and excitement during summer months. The success story of Crest Pontoons is a testament to how dedication, passion, and community support can lead a small family-owned business into becoming an industry leader over time. Their products have brought joy and unforgettable experiences for countless families across North America while contributing significantly to St.Charles' economy. In conclusion, Crest Pontoons has become an integral part of St.Charles's history through its commitment towards quality craftsmanship, innovation in design & technology advancements while promoting economic growth within this charming river town.

Crest Pontoons is a well-known brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality pontoon boats. Founded in 1957 in Owosso, Michigan by David McMullen and Willis Slane, Crest has become one of the most respected names in the pontoon market. Pontoon boats are flat-bottomed boats that use pontoons as flotation devices to create stability on water. They have been around since the early 1900s but grew in popularity during the mid-20th century. Initially used for fishing or transportation, pontoon boats have evolved into versatile recreational vessels that can be used for cruising, watersports, and entertaining. What sets Crest Pontoons apart from other brands is their commitment to innovation and quality. The company prides itself on using cutting-edge technology and materials to create superior products that meet customers' needs and expectations. One of Crest's most notable innovations is their patented All-Aluminum "M" bracket cross-members. This design provides unparalleled structural integrity while reducing weight compared to traditional wood or steel cross-members used by other manufacturers. The result is a stronger yet lighter boat with better performance on the water. In addition to their innovative construction techniques, Crest also offers customizable options for their pontoons. Customers can choose from a variety of colors, flooring materials such as carpet or vinyl, seating layouts and configurations, sound systems, lighting options and more – allowing them to create a personalized boat tailored to their specific needs. Another aspect that makes Crest stand out is their dedication to sustainability. In recent years there has been growing concern about marine pollution caused by discarded plastic waste entering our oceans and waterways. To combat this issue, Crest uses recyclable aluminum instead of fiberglass or plastic components commonly found in other boats' construction processes. Furthermore, all upholstery material used on board are made from marine-grade vinyl with UV inhibitors added during production - ensuring durability against sun damage while minimizing environmental impact. Crest Pontoons' commitment to innovation and sustainability has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, the company was awarded the prestigious NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) Innovation Award for their Cool Touch vinyl seating option. This material stays cooler to the touch than traditional vinyl, making it more comfortable for boaters on hot summer days. In addition to their focus on quality and sustainability, Crest also prioritizes safety in all of their products. All of their pontoons are built with Coast Guard-approved flotation foam which provides added buoyancy in case of an emergency. The boats also have non-slip flooring options and handrails throughout to ensure safe movement onboard. But it's not just about creating a high-quality product – customer satisfaction is equally important to Crest Pontoons. Their dealer network spans across North America, ensuring that customers can easily access sales and service support from knowledgeable professionals wherever they may be located. Moreover, Crest provides a limited lifetime warranty on structural components as well as a five-year bow-to-stern warranty on materials and workmanship - giving customers peace of mind knowing that they are investing in a reliable and trustworthy brand. Crest Pontoons is also dedicated to giving back to its community through various philanthropic efforts. The company partners with organizations such as Make-A-Wish Foundation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, Wounded Warriors Project among others – supporting causes that align with values cherished by many boating enthusiasts. In recent years there has been significant growth within the pontoon industry due to increasing demand from both new and experienced boaters alike. With this growth comes increased competition between brands; however,Crest remains at the forefront due to its unwavering dedication towards providing top-of-the-line products coupled with exceptional customer service. In conclusion,Crest Pontoons has established itself as one of the most reputable brands in the boating industry through its commitment towards innovation, quality,sustainability,and safety. Their customizable options cater to a diverse range of customers, and their strong dealer network ensures that boaters can easily access support when needed. With its continued focus on excellence, Crest Pontoons will undoubtedly continue to be a leader in the pontoon market for years to come.