Mercury Marine has been a staple of the Sterling, Illinois community for over 60 years. The company's history in this small town began in 1955 when it acquired Kiekhaefer Corporation, a manufacturer of outboard motors. Since then, Mercury Marine has grown to become one of the leading providers of marine propulsion systems worldwide. The Early Years In its early years in Sterling, Mercury Marine operated under the name "Kiekhaefer Corporation." It was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer who started his career as an engineer at the Chris-Craft boat company. In search of greater success and autonomy, he decided to strike out on his own and start his own business. Initially, Kiekhaefer Corporation produced magnetic separators used in dairy farms and creameries. However, after World War II ended, there was a surplus of aluminum and steel materials available which sparked an interest within Carl to venture into new industries. The first product that really put Kiekhaefer Corporation on the map was not related to boats or engines at all – it was chainsaws. In 1949, they introduced their first chainsaw model which quickly became popular with loggers across America due to its lightweight design and impressive power. Entering the Boating Industry In 1950, Mercury Outboards approached Carl with an offer to acquire his chain saws division but he declined. Instead, he expressed interest in purchasing their manufacturing plant which led him into the boating industry. Mercury Outboards had gone bankrupt during World War II but had recently re-established itself as "Outboard Motors Corp" (OMC). Despite being named after its most famous product – mercury marine engines – OMC also manufactured other products such as lawn mowers and fishing tackle before shifting back towards specializing solely in boat motors again. OMC owned two factories located close together on Sterling’s south side: one that made parts for its outboard motors, and another that assembled the actual engines. Kiekhaefer Corporation purchased both facilities in 1955 and merged them into one operation. The birth of Mercury Marine Carl Kiekhaefer had always wanted to use his own name for his company but was advised against it by marketing experts who believed that using a German name would not sit well with American consumers during the post-war era. However, after acquiring OMC's assets, he finally got his chance to re-brand the company as "Mercury Marine." Under the new leadership of Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine quickly became known for its innovation and high-performance marine engines. They introduced several new technologies such as Thunderbolt ignition (which improved fuel efficiency) and Quicksilver propellers which were more durable than their predecessors. Expansion and Growth In just a few years after moving to Sterling, Mercury Marine expanded rapidly. The workforce grew from 300 employees in 1955 to over 1,000 by 1960. This growth was fueled by strong demand for their products as boating became increasingly popular across America. To keep up with this demand, Mercury Marine continued to innovate and introduce new products such as stern drives (inboard/outboard motor systems) in the late 1960s. By the early 1970s, they had also expanded into other markets such as snowmobiles and personal watercraft. In addition to product expansion, Mercury Marine also invested heavily in research and development throughout these years which led to significant improvements in engine performance and fuel efficiency. Community Impact Aside from providing jobs for thousands of people in Sterling over the decades, Mercury Marine has also made significant contributions back into the community through various initiatives. One notable project is their partnership with local schools where they sponsor programs designed to encourage students’ interest in science education – particularly engineering-related fields like marine technology. They have also been involved in various environmental conservation efforts, such as planting trees along the Rock River to reduce erosion and improve water quality. Recent Years In 2011, Mercury Marine announced that it would be investing $20 million into its Sterling facility to upgrade and modernize its manufacturing capabilities. This investment was a testament to the company's commitment to remaining in Sterling for the long run. In 2019, Mercury Marine celebrated its 60th anniversary in Sterling with a community-wide event that included a boat parade on the Rock River and a concert featuring local musicians. The company also unveiled their new global headquarters building which serves as both an office space and a training center for dealers and technicians. Future Prospects Today, Mercury Marine remains at the forefront of marine propulsion technology with products ranging from high-performance engines for racing boats to reliable motors for recreational boaters. The company continues to invest in research and development while also expanding into new markets such as electric propulsion systems. Mercury Marine's presence in Sterling has not only brought economic prosperity but has also established itself as an integral part of the community. With over six decades of history together, it is clear that this partnership will continue well into the future.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines, propellers, and accessories for recreational boating and commercial use. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has grown into one of the most recognizable names in the boating industry. From its humble beginnings as a small machine shop producing outboard motors for local fishermen, Mercury Marine has evolved into a global company with over 6,000 employees worldwide and distribution in more than 100 countries. The company's success can be attributed to its commitment to innovation, quality products, and exceptional customer service. Innovation has been at the core of Mercury Marine's growth since its inception. In the early days, founder Carl Kiekhaefer was known for his relentless pursuit of perfection and his willingness to take risks in order to improve upon existing technology. This drive for innovation led to numerous advancements in marine engine design that set Mercury apart from its competitors. One notable example is the introduction of the first two-stroke outboard motor with electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology in 1984. This revolutionary development greatly improved engine performance and efficiency while reducing emissions – making it not only better for boaters but also for the environment. Today, Mercury continues this tradition of innovation with ongoing research and development efforts aimed at improving their products' performance while minimizing their environmental impact. In recent years they have introduced several new technologies such as advanced joystick piloting systems for easier maneuverability on watercrafts equipped with multiple engines. Quality is another key aspect that sets Mercury Marine apart from other companies in their industry. The company prides itself on using only high-quality materials sourced from trusted suppliers around the world coupled with rigorous testing procedures throughout every step of production ensures that only top-quality products leave their factories. This dedication to quality has earned them numerous awards including ISO 9001 certification which recognizes companies that consistently provide high-quality products and services. It also reflects the company's commitment to continuous improvement and customer satisfaction. Speaking of customers, Mercury Marine holds an exceptional reputation for providing top-notch customer service. The company takes pride in its relationships with their clients which extend beyond just the sale of products. They offer a comprehensive support system that includes extensive product training, technical assistance, and warranty coverage for their customers. Mercury's dedication to customer satisfaction is further demonstrated through their ongoing efforts to improve upon and expand their product offerings based on feedback from boaters around the world. This has resulted in a diverse range of engines suitable for various types of watercrafts such as outboard motors, sterndrive engines, inboards, and jet drives – ensuring that there is something for every type of boater. In addition to marine engines, Mercury Marine also offers a wide range of propellers and accessories designed to enhance performance on the water. Their line-up includes stainless steel propellers engineered for optimum speed and handling as well as aluminum options that provide excellent value without sacrificing quality. Their accessory selection covers everything from control systems and gauges to audio equipment and safety gear – all aimed at making life easier for boaters while enhancing their overall experience on the water. Mercury Marine has also made significant strides towards sustainability with initiatives aimed at reducing waste production during manufacturing processes as well as implementing environmentally-friendly practices throughout all aspects of their business operations. These include recycling programs, energy-efficient facilities, responsible sourcing policies, and partnerships with conservation organizations such as The Nature Conservancy. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has come a long way since its small machine shop beginnings almost 80 years ago. Through innovation, quality products, exceptional customer service, and commitment to sustainability they have established themselves as leaders in the marine industry worldwide. With continued investments in research & development coupled with strict adherence to core values such as integrity and excellence – it is clear that this iconic American brand will continue to set itself apart and drive the future of boating for years to come.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has been an integral part of the Sterling community in Illinois for over 60 years. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer and initially operated out of a small factory in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. In 1946, Kiekhaefer relocated the company to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin where it continued to grow and expand. In the late 1950s, Mercury Marine began looking for alternative locations to meet increasing demand for their products. After considering several options across the Midwest, they ultimately chose Sterling as their new home due to its central location and access to major transportation routes. In June 1961, Mercury Marine opened its first production facility in Sterling with just over 100 employees. Over time, the facility grew and underwent multiple expansions to accommodate increased production and product diversity. By the end of the decade, more than $2 million had been invested into expanding and modernizing the plant. The company's presence brought significant economic growth to Sterling and surrounding areas. At its peak in the early 1980s, Mercury employed nearly 3,000 people at its facilities in Sterling. This had a ripple effect on local businesses as well - suppliers and service providers also benefited from increased business due to Mercury's operations. Throughout its history in Sterling, Mercury has continuously introduced innovative technologies such as sterndrive propulsion systems that revolutionized boating industry standards at that time. The company also expanded into producing marine engines for commercial use including powering fishing boats used by professional fishers around the world. However during this period there were some challenges faced by both Mercury Marine and other manufacturing companies nationwide – fluctuating fuel prices caused shifts within consumer demographics leading manufacturers like Mercury Marine & others towards market diversification strategies i.e., offering boaters lower price point options such as four-stroke engines or revamping existing models with technological advancements focused on reducing emissions and increasing efficiency. Despite these challenges, Mercury Marine remained committed to its roots in Sterling. In 2012, the company announced a $10 million investment into expanding its existing operations in Sterling - adding new manufacturing lines and increasing production capacity by nearly 50%. This investment also created over 200 new jobs in the area. Today, Mercury's facility in Sterling covers more than one million square feet and employs over 1,500 people. It is one of the largest employers in the region and continues to be a major contributor to the local economy. The company's commitment to innovation has also led it to become a leader in sustainability efforts within the boating industry, with initiatives such as reducing carbon emissions and implementing sustainable manufacturing practices. In addition to its economic impact, Mercury Marine has also been actively involved in supporting community organizations and events in Sterling. From sponsoring local sports teams to participating in charity events, the company remains deeply connected to its hometown. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Sterling is one of growth, innovation, and community involvement. Its presence has played an integral role not only in shaping the boating industry but also contributing significantly to the development of Sterling as a thriving city. As technology advances continue at an unprecedented rate – we can expect that companies like Mercury will continue exploring innovative solutions for enhancing their products while keeping environmental conservation & consumer satisfaction at forefronts.

Sterling, Illinois is a charming and historic city located in northwestern Illinois. It is situated along the banks of the scenic Rock River and has a population of approximately 15,000 residents. The city was founded in 1856 by Hezekiah Brink, who named it after his birthplace of Sterling, Massachusetts. One of the most notable aspects of Sterling is its rich history. The area was first inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Fox before European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. In fact, Chief Black Hawk's campsite can still be found within the city limits at Sinnissippi Park. The arrival of railroads in Sterling during the mid-1800s played a significant role in its development and growth as a major transportation hub for both goods and people. This led to an increase in industry, commerce, and population throughout the late 19th century. Today, visitors to Sterling can experience this history through various attractions such as museums and historical sites. One popular destination is Dillon Home Museum which showcases artifacts from prominent local families dating back to the 1800s. Another must-see attraction is Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum which provides insight into life during Abraham Lincoln's time with guided tours highlighting period furnishings. Aside from its rich history, Sterling also boasts stunning natural beauty with numerous parks offering outdoor recreational activities for all ages. Sinnissippi Park features over three miles of walking trails along with picnic areas perfect for family outings or romantic strolls along the riverfront. Emerald Hill Golf Course offers challenging greens set against picturesque landscapes making it a favorite among avid golfers. In addition to its natural beauty, Sterling also hosts several community events throughout the year that bring residents together while attracting tourists from neighboring towns. Some notable events include "Whiteside County Fair" held every August featuring carnival rides, live music performances, agricultural exhibits showcasing local produce; "Music Fest" held in June showcasing local musicians and bands; and "Riverfront Market" held every Saturday from May to October offering fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and more. Sterling is also home to various educational institutions including Sterling High School which has been recognized as one of America's Best High Schools by U.S. News & World Report. Additionally, Sauk Valley Community College offers affordable higher education options for students looking to further their academic pursuits. The city of Sterling is also known for its strong sense of community and volunteerism. The citizens take great pride in giving back through various civic organizations such as the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, and more. These groups work together on projects that benefit the community while promoting a spirit of unity among residents. Economically, Sterling has a diverse range of industries including manufacturing, healthcare services, agriculture production and distribution making it an ideal location for businesses big or small. Its close proximity to major cities like Chicago provides access to larger markets while maintaining a lower cost of living than urban areas. In recent years, the city has undergone significant revitalization efforts with projects aimed at enhancing downtown areas through streetscape improvements and historic preservation initiatives. This has created new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to start businesses within the heart of Sterling’s business district. Overall, Sterling offers a welcoming environment with plenty to see and do whether you are visiting or considering making it your permanent home. With its rich history dating back centuries along with modern amenities and thriving economy - this charming Illinois town truly has something for everyone.

Mercury Marine is a well-known American manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who had a vision to create the best-performing and most reliable outboard motors in the world. With its headquarters located in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has become one of the largest manufacturers of marine engines globally. The early years of Mercury Marine were marked by innovation and determination. In 1939, Carl Kiekhaefer purchased an outboard motor business from Evinrude Motors and moved it to Cedarburg, Wisconsin. He renamed the company “Kiekhaefer Corporation” and began producing two-cylinder outboard motors under his own brand name – Mercury. At first, Kiekhaefer’s business venture faced many challenges as he struggled to compete with other established brands such as Johnson Outboards and Evinrude Motors. However, he was determined to make Mercury a success despite these setbacks. In 1940, just one year after its establishment, Mercury made history when it introduced its first racing engine -the Lightning XR-6- which set new speed records at boat races across America. This achievement put Mercury on the map as a serious contender in the marine industry. Despite facing financial difficulties during World War II due to government restrictions on non-military production activities, Kiekhaefer continued innovating and expanding his product line with new technologies like electric starting systems for boats. By the end of WWII in 1945, demand for recreational boating increased significantly among Americans who wanted to enjoy leisure time after years of war rationing. This provided an opportunity for companies like Mercury to grow their businesses further. With increasing demand for their products came expansion opportunities for Mercury Marine as they opened new manufacturing facilities across the United States and Canada throughout the 1950s. By this time, they were already producing a range of outboard motors, including two-cylinder and four-cylinder models. In 1956, Mercury introduced its first inboard engine – the Mercruiser – which was an instant success. This move marked the company's entry into the sterndrive market, making them one of the few manufacturers to offer both outboard and inboard engines. The 1960s were a decade of rapid expansion for Mercury Marine. They acquired several companies that produced marine accessories such as steering systems, controls, and propellers. This vertical integration allowed Mercury to control their supply chain better and improve product quality. In 1961, Carl Kiekhaefer retired from his role as president of Mercury Marine but remained on the board until he sold his shares in 1969. His successor was Joseph Lodge Jr., who led the company through significant growth and diversification during his tenure. One notable achievement during Lodge’s leadership was the development of stern drives for high-performance boats under Project Blackhawk in partnership with automotive giant Ford Motor Company. This collaboration led to innovations like hydraulic trim tabs and power steering for boats with larger engines. Mercury continued expanding globally throughout the 1970s by opening manufacturing facilities in Europe and South America. In addition, they diversified their product line further by introducing personal watercraft (PWC) under their Mariner brand name. The company also started investing heavily in research and development activities to enhance performance while reducing emissions from its products - a testament to its commitment towards environmental conservation efforts even at an early stage. During this time, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine along with other established brands such as Sea Ray Boats and Boston Whaler. Under Brunswick’s ownership since 1961, Mercury has maintained its position as one of the world's leading marine propulsion system manufacturers through continuous innovation. Throughout subsequent decades up till now, Mercury has continued pushing boundaries with new technologies like electronic fuel injection (EFI) and direct fuel injection (DFI) systems, making their engines more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. They have also expanded into the marine electronics market with products like SmartCraft technology that offers real-time engine data monitoring. In recent years, Mercury has achieved significant milestones such as being the first company to introduce supercharged four-stroke outboard engines in 2015, which quickly became popular among boaters who wanted both power and efficiency on the water. Today, Mercury Marine is a global leader in the marine industry, serving customers in over 100 countries worldwide. Their product line includes outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower to 450 horsepower, sterndrives for various boat sizes, and innovative technologies like joystick piloting for easy vessel maneuvering. Mercury's commitment to quality and performance has earned them numerous awards over the years, including multiple recognitions as "Manufacturer of the Year" by Boating Industry magazine. In addition to this success on the business front, they are also actively involved in philanthropic initiatives through their “Mercury Marine Foundation” that supports causes related to education, conservation efforts and community development. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s journey from its humble beginnings in Wisconsin almost eight decades ago to becoming an internationally recognized brand is a testament to its founder Carl Kiekhaefer’s vision of creating reliable high-performance marine propulsion systems. With continuous innovation driving their growth and expansion globally over many years under Brunswick Corporation's ownership today - it is safe to say that Mercury will continue leading the way for many generations yet to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion systems, parts, and accessories. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Initially named Kiekhaefer Corporation, the company began as a small machine shop that produced outboard motors for commercial fishing boats. In the late 1940s and early 1950s, Mercury Marine experienced rapid growth due to its innovative designs and reliable products. In 1946, they introduced their first consumer outboard motor called the "Super 10." This motor quickly gained popularity among boaters for its lightweight design and high-performance capabilities. In the following years, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line with larger and more powerful outboard motors. They also expanded their market reach by selling internationally through partnerships with other companies such as Yamaha Motor Company in Japan. By the mid-1960s, Mercury Marine had become one of the largest manufacturers of marine engines in the world. They were known for pushing boundaries with new technologies such as electronic ignition systems and power trim features on their motors. In 1961, Kiekhaefer Corporation officially changed its name to Mercury Marine to better reflect its primary focus on marine products. Throughout the next few decades, Mercury Marine continued to grow and innovate within the industry. In 1973, they became part of Brunswick Corporation which allowed them access to additional resources for research and development. This partnership helped them introduce groundbreaking technologies such as fuel injection systems on their engines. Today, Mercury Marine offers a wide range of products including four-stroke outboard motors from two horsepower up to over six hundred horsepower; stern drives ranging from one hundred horsepower up to over three hundred fifty horsepower; diesel sterndrives; jet drives; propellers; inflatable boats; trolling motors; controls; gauges; steering systems; control cables ;and other accessories like oil filters , fuel filters , and spark plugs. In addition to their products, Mercury Marine also provides world-class customer service through a network of dealerships and service centers around the globe. They also have a strong presence in competitive boating events and sponsor many professional anglers, boat racers, and other athletes. Throughout its history, Mercury Marine has received numerous awards for its innovative designs and commitment to quality. In 2019, they were recognized as the "Most Innovative Company" at the annual International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition & Conference (IBEX). Today, Mercury Marine continues to be an industry leader with a focus on sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices in their manufacturing processes. They are also committed to giving back to local communities through various charitable initiatives such as providing scholarships for students pursuing careers in marine technology. With over eighty years of experience in the industry, Mercury Marine remains dedicated to providing reliable and high-performance products for recreational boaters worldwide. Their rich history serves as a testament to their enduring success and commitment to innovation within the marine industry.

Located in the heart of the fertile Midwestern plains, Sterling, Illinois has a rich history shaped by its strategic location and hardworking residents. The city was founded in 1834 by Hezekiah Brink as part of a land grant from President Andrew Jackson. Initially known as Harrisburg, it was later renamed to Sterling after William H. Sterlin, a prominent lawyer who played an important role in securing the city's charter. Early settlers were drawn to the area for its abundant natural resources such as timber and waterways that provided transportation and power for mills. The Rock River, which runs through the city, served as an essential route for trade and commerce with nearby cities like Chicago and St. Louis. In the mid-1800s, Sterling experienced significant growth due to the construction of railroads connecting it to major cities in Illinois and beyond. This led to an influx of industries such as lumber mills, foundries, flour mills, and grain elevators that fueled economic development. One notable event in Sterling's history is its involvement in Abraham Lincoln's political career. In 1856, Lincoln gave a speech at what is now called Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum during his campaign for U.S Senate against Stephen A. Douglas. It is also believed that he stayed at this house while traveling through Sterling on his way to Ottawa for one of their famous debates. During World War II, many young men from Sterling served their country by enlisting in the armed forces or working in defense-related industries. The war brought about significant changes to the economy and demographics of the city with more women entering into traditionally male-dominated jobs. The post-war era saw continued growth with new businesses setting up shop in Sterling thanks to favorable tax policies implemented by local leaders. This period also saw advancements in technology leading to industrial expansion with companies like Northwestern Steel & Wire Co., Lawrence Brothers Inc., Wahl Clipper Corporation establishing operations here. Sterling's rich agricultural heritage is also a significant part of its history. The fertile land and favorable climate have made it an ideal location for farming. In the 1800s, many farmers settled in Sterling to take advantage of the vast farmlands and established successful agricultural businesses. In the late 20th century, Sterling faced challenges as industries began to move out of the city due to changing economic conditions. However, with proactive efforts from community leaders and residents, the city was able to adapt and diversify its economy by attracting new businesses such as logistics companies and medical facilities. Today, Sterling is a thriving community with a population of over 15,000 people. It boasts a vibrant downtown area with locally-owned shops and restaurants that attract visitors from neighboring towns. The Rock River remains an essential aspect of life in Sterling, providing recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and scenic walking trails. The city also takes pride in preserving its history through various museums like Lincoln-Manahan Home Museum and Dillon Home Museum. These museums offer guided tours showcasing artifacts and documents that tell the story of Sterling's past. In recent years, there has been a renewed focus on promoting tourism in Sterling by highlighting its unique history through events like Heritage Days Festival which celebrates the city's cultural diversity through food vendors, music performances, art exhibits, and historical reenactments. Sterling has come a long way since its humble beginnings as Harrisburg. Its strategic location along major transportation routes allowed it to thrive economically while maintaining its small-town charm. The hardworking spirit of its residents has played a crucial role in shaping this community into what it is today – a welcoming place where past meets present creating opportunities for growth and progress. Through ups-and-downs throughout history such as wars or economic changes affecting industry patterns within cities across America – one thing remained constant -the resilience shown by citizens who call Sterling home. As we look ahead towards future development, the city continues to focus on maintaining its historic roots while embracing modernization. With a strong sense of community and a dedication to preserving its heritage, Sterling is poised for continued success in the years to come. In conclusion, Sterling's history is one of perseverance and adaptation. From its early days as a settlement along the Rock River to its current status as a thriving Midwest city, it has withstood challenges and emerged stronger each time. The legacy left by its founders and past residents is evident in the charming streets lined with historical buildings that tell their own stories. Sterling may have come a long way since 1834, but one thing remains true – it will always be home to those who cherish its past while working towards an even brighter future. Its rich history serves as a reminder that no matter what obstacles we face, we can overcome them through determination and hard work.

Sterling, Illinois is a city located in Whiteside County in northwestern Illinois. The town was founded in 1834 by Hezekiah Brink as "Harrisburg" and later renamed Sterling after Major James Sterling, who was instrumental in securing the town's charter. The area where Sterling now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Fox tribes. These tribes were displaced during the Black Hawk War of 1832, which opened up the land for settlement by European-American pioneers. In its early years, Sterling grew rapidly due to its location on the Rock River and proximity to other major transportation routes. The first railroad line reached Sterling in 1855, connecting it to Chicago and other cities. This led to an influx of new residents and industries such as lumber mills, grain elevators, and manufacturing plants. During the late 19th century, Sterling became known for its production of high-quality steel plows made by companies like Northwestern Steel & Iron Works. The town also had a thriving agricultural industry with many farms producing corn and soybeans. In 1861, Abraham Lincoln passed through Sterling on his way from Springfield to Washington D.C., where he would be inaugurated as President of the United States. A statue commemorating this event can be found at First Avenue Bridge Park in downtown Sterling. Throughout its history, Sterling has faced challenges such as devastating fires that destroyed much of its downtown area twice – once in 1893 and again in 1904. However, each time it rebuilt stronger than before thanks to dedicated community members working together. Today, sterling is a bustling city with a population of over 15,000 people. It continues to thrive economically with industries such as healthcare services (CGH Medical Center), education (Sauk Valley Community College), agriculture (ADM Grain), manufacturing (Timken Drives LLC), retail businesses (Northland Mall) contributing to its growth. The city also has a rich cultural and recreational scene with many parks, museums, and annual events like the Sterling Main Street Car Show and Fiesta Days. The historic downtown district is home to many locally-owned businesses, restaurants, and entertainment venues. In 2019, Sterling celebrated its 185th anniversary with a year-long series of events honoring its past while looking towards the future. As it continues to evolve and grow, Sterling remains an important part of Illinois' history as well as a vibrant community that welcomes visitors from all over.

Mercury Marine is a company that has played an integral role in the history of Sterling, Illinois. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has grown from a small outboard motor manufacturer to a global leader in marine propulsion systems and products. Sterling, Illinois was chosen as the location for Mercury Marine's headquarters due to its proximity to the Rock River and Mississippi River, providing easy access for testing their products on water. The company began operations with just seven employees and produced its first outboard motor, the "Lightning" series. In the early years of operation, Mercury Marine faced many challenges including stiff competition from established companies such as Evinrude Motors and Johnson Motors. However, under Kiekhaefer's leadership and determination to produce quality products at affordable prices, the company began to gain recognition in the market. The breakthrough for Mercury Marine came during World War II when it secured contracts with the US Navy to produce motors for landing craft boats. This not only provided much-needed revenue but also helped establish Mercury as a reliable brand among boaters. After the war ended, recreational boating became increasingly popular which led to increased demand for outboard motors – further boosting Mercury's growth. By 1950s ,Mercury had become one of Sterling’s largest employers with over 2,000 workers producing thousands of motors each year. In addition to outboard motors, they also started manufacturing sterndrive units (also known as inboard-outboards) which are used on larger boats. One significant event that impacted both Sterling and Mercury Marine was when Carl Kiekhaefer stepped down from his position as CEO in 1969 after having disagreements with Brunswick Corporation who had acquired majority ownership of Mercury earlier that year. Despite this change in leadership, the company continued its success under new management by expanding its product line beyond just marine engines – introducing snowmobiles (1971), personal watercraft (1994), and even boat accessories such as propellers, gauges, and controls. In 1976, Mercury Marine opened a state-of-the-art testing facility in Sterling – the “Lake X” Proving Grounds. This facility is used to test new products under various conditions and has become an essential part of the company's research and development process. Mercury Marine continued to innovate throughout the years with advancements in technology such as electronic fuel injection systems and four-stroke engines. In 2008, they also acquired competitor Mariner Outboards from Yamaha Motor Corporation which further solidified their position as a leader in marine propulsion systems. The success of Mercury Marine has had a significant impact on the city of Sterling. The company's growth has led to job creation not just within its own facilities but also through support industries such as transportation, manufacturing, and hospitality. It has also brought recognition to Sterling as a hub for boating enthusiasts with many events being held on the Rock River each year. Today, Mercury Marine employs over 7,000 people worldwide with operations in several countries including Australia, China, Japan, Mexico,and New Zealand. Despite facing competition from other established brands like Yamaha and Suzuki , it remains one of the top companies in its industry – constantly striving for innovation while staying true to Carl Kiekhaefer's vision of producing reliable products at affordable prices. In conclusion,Mercury Marine’s history in Sterling showcases how a small business can grow into an international corporation through hard work,determination,and adaptation to changing market trends.While there have been challenges along the way,the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has enabled it to withstand them all.With ongoing expansion plans,it is evident that Mercury will continue playing a vital role not only in Sterling,but also globally,in shaping the future of recreational boating.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, is one of the leading manufacturers of marine engines and propulsion systems in the world. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer with just a few employees working out of a small shed in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Today, Mercury Marine has grown into an international powerhouse with over 7,000 employees and operations in over 120 countries. From its humble beginnings as an outboard motor manufacturer, Mercury Marine has expanded its product line to include sterndrive and inboard engines, propellers, controls and rigging systems for boats ranging from recreational to commercial vessels. The company also offers extensive after-sales support through their network of dealerships and service centers around the world. One key factor that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is its commitment to innovation and technology. Throughout its history, the company has continuously invested heavily in research and development to produce cutting-edge products that are more efficient, reliable and environmentally friendly. One such example is the introduction of electronic fuel injection (EFI) technology which revolutionized marine engine performance by providing better fuel economy while reducing emissions. In addition to EFI engines, Mercury Marine also offers direct injection two-stroke engines as well as four-stroke engines that meet stringent emission standards set by regulatory bodies like CARB (California Air Resources Board) and EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Innovation at Mercury Marine extends beyond just engine technology - it also encompasses design features for ease-of-use and convenience for boaters. For instance, their SmartCraft digital throttle & shift system allows for precise control over boat speed while providing real-time information on engine performance such as fuel consumption rates or water temperature. Another area where Mercury Marine excels is customer satisfaction. Through their global dealer network coupled with online resources like owner's manuals or troubleshooting guides available on their website; they strive to provide top-notch customer service before even making a sale. This level of commitment has earned them numerous awards and recognition, including the prestigious J.D. Power award for highest customer satisfaction in marine engines. In recent years, Mercury Marine has also made significant strides in sustainability efforts. They have implemented green initiatives across their operations such as using renewable energy sources to power their facilities and reducing waste through recycling programs. In addition, they have developed eco-friendly products like the Verado line of outboard motors which are designed with noise reduction technology and use less fuel than traditional two-stroke engines. Despite its success, Mercury Marine continues to face challenges in an ever-evolving industry. One major challenge is adapting to stricter emission regulations while still maintaining high levels of performance and efficiency. The company has risen to this challenge by investing in alternative fuels such as propane or biofuels that have lower emissions compared to traditional gasoline or diesel. Another area where Mercury Marine faces competition is from emerging technologies such as electric propulsion systems for boats. To stay ahead of the curve, the company has established partnerships with leading electric motor manufacturers like Torqeedo to offer hybrid propulsion solutions for boaters looking for a greener option. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's long-standing history coupled with its dedication towards innovation, customer satisfaction and sustainability has solidified its position as a leader in the marine industry. With a strong focus on research and development along with strategic partnerships, the company shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon. As boating enthusiasts continue to demand more advanced technology and environmentally friendly options, it is safe to say that Mercury Marine will continue pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the world of marine engines.