Crestliner is a renowned American boat manufacturing company that has been in existence since the 1940s. The company was founded in Little Falls, Minnesota by Willis and Charles Smith under the name "The Aluminum Boat Company". However, it wasn't until the early 1950s when Crestliner made its way to Bettendorf, Iowa that it truly established itself as a leading brand in the boating industry. In 1952, due to increasing demand for their boats and limited production capacity at their original location in Little Falls, Willis and Charles Smith decided to expand their operations to a new facility in Bettendorf, Iowa. This move proved to be pivotal for Crestliner's growth and success. At first, Crestliner operated out of an old corn crib on State Street with only four employees. But even with such humble beginnings, the company quickly gained recognition for its high-quality aluminum boats. In fact, within just one year of operation in Bettendorf, Crestliner had already produced over 1,000 boats. One of the key reasons behind Crestliner's success was its innovative approach towards boat design and manufacturing. Unlike traditional wooden boats which were prone to rotting and required constant maintenance, Crestliner introduced all-aluminum construction techniques which not only made their boats durable but also lightweight and low-maintenance. This breakthrough technology set them apart from other boat manufacturers at that time. By 1954 – just two years after establishing themselves in Bettendorf –Crestliner had outgrown its original facility on State Street and moved into a larger building on South Main Street where they could increase production further. The new facility allowed them to produce up to five times more boats than before while still maintaining their high standards of quality. As demand continued to grow steadily throughout the late 50s and early 60s,Crestliners' reputation as a top-notch manufacturer spread across North America.At this point, the company had expanded its product line to include not only fishing boats but also pleasure cruisers and runabouts. This diversification helped Crestliner reach a wider customer base and solidify its position as one of the top boat brands in the industry. In 1962,Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), one of the largest manufacturers of recreational marine products at that time. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner continued to thrive, with production increasing every year and new models being introduced regularly. However, it wasn't until 1975 when Crestliner underwent a major transformation that would shape its future for years to come. The company moved into a state-of-the-art facility on South State Street in Bettendorf – where they still operate today – which allowed them to significantly increase their production capacity and introduce even more advanced manufacturing techniques. Throughout the next few decades,Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its product line while staying true to its core values of quality, durability,and performance. In 1986,Oak Industries,a global technology company,purchased OMC including Crestliner as part of their boating division.In 1998,Brunswick Corporation acquired Oak Industries' boating division,and thus became the parent company of Crestliner. Under Brunswick's leadership,Crestliners' growth has been exponential.The brand has become synonymous with high-performance aluminum boats,and their products are sold worldwide through an extensive network of dealers.Besides constantly introducing new models,the company has also prioritized research and development,making sure they stay ahead in terms of design,functionality,and technology.In recent years,some notable innovations from Crestline have included SureMount Gunnel System for customizable accessories,Sport Package for enhanced fishing capabilities,and integrated transducer mounting system for easier installation. Apart from technical developments,Crestliners' commitment towards sustainability is worth mentioning.As early as in 1957,the company started using recycled aluminum scrap in their manufacturing process,thus reducing their environmental impact.Since then,Crestliner has continued to take initiatives towards preserving the environment,including using eco-friendly materials and implementing sustainable practices in their operations. Today,Crestliner is a household name for boaters and fishing enthusiasts alike.The company's headquarters in Bettendorf spans over 300,000 square feet with modern facilities for design,engineering,and manufacturing.Employing over 500 people,the company produces around 6,000 boats annually – each one handcrafted with precision and attention to detail. Crestliner's success story in Bettendorf,Iowa,is a testament to the dedication of its founders and employees who have worked tirelessly to build a brand that stands for quality,durability,and innovation.It also speaks volumes about the supportive community of Bettendorf which has provided an ideal environment for Crestliner to thrive. As Crestliner continues to grow and evolve,it remains deeply connected to its roots and committed towards delivering exceptional boating experiences for generations to come.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, providing high-quality aluminum boats since 1946. The company has built a strong reputation for its durable and reliable boats that are designed to withstand all kinds of water conditions. History of Crestliner The history of Crestliner dates back to 1946 when the company was founded by David Clark in Little Falls, Minnesota. At first, the company focused on producing welded aluminum fishing boats for recreational use. However, as demand grew, Crestliner expanded its product line to include various types of boats such as pontoons, bass boats, and sportfish models. In 1959, Crestliner joined forces with another boat manufacturer called Larson Boats. This partnership allowed both companies to expand their market reach and introduce new innovations in boat design and manufacturing techniques. Over the years, Crestliner continued to grow and evolve into one of the most respected names in the boating industry. In 2005, Brunswick Corporation acquired both Crestliner and Larson Boats under its Marine Group division. This acquisition brought together two major players in the boating world and further solidified Crestliner's position as a top boat brand. Design Philosophy One of the key factors behind Crestliner's success is its unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship. The company takes pride in building every boat with precision engineering techniques using only high-grade materials such as marine-grade aluminum alloys which are known for their strength and durability. Crestliners' design philosophy revolves around creating functional yet stylish boats that can handle any kind of water condition while providing ultimate comfort for its passengers. Each model goes through rigorous testing processes before hitting production lines to ensure they meet strict quality standards set by Coast Guard regulations. Product Line Crestline offers a wide range of models suitable for different purposes ranging from family-friendly pontoons to rugged deep-V hulls ideal for fishing enthusiasts. Their lineup includes: 1) Pontoons - These are perfect for leisurely cruises and family outings. Crestliner offers a variety of pontoon models that can accommodate large groups while providing enough space for entertainment and relaxation. 2) Bass Boats - Designed specifically for anglers, these boats are equipped with features such as livewells, rod storage, and spacious decks to make fishing trips more enjoyable. 3) Sportfish Models - Combining the best features of both pontoons and bass boats, sportfish models offer versatility in terms of functionality. They provide ample seating options for socializing or comfortable fishing experiences. 4) Deep-V Hulls - For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping ride on rough waters, Crestliner's deep-V hulls are the perfect choice. These boats are built to withstand harsh conditions while providing a smooth ride even at high speeds. Innovations Crestliner has always been at the forefront of innovation when it comes to boat design and technology. The company is constantly pushing boundaries by introducing new features that enhance performance, safety, and comfort for its customers. One example is their patented Hull Step Technology which provides better fuel efficiency by reducing drag on the water surface. This feature also improves handling and stability making it easier to navigate through choppy waters. Another notable innovation from Crestliner is their SureMount Gunnel System which allows easy customization of accessories like rod holders or cup holders without drilling any holes into the boat's structure. This not only makes installation hassle-free but also preserves the integrity of the boat's construction. Environmental Stewardship Apart from producing top-quality boats, Crestliner also takes responsibility towards protecting our environment. The company follows strict environmental practices in its manufacturing processes ensuring minimal impact on natural resources. Their commitment to sustainability can be seen through their use of recyclable materials in production as well as implementing eco-friendly measures at their facilities such as energy-efficient lighting systems and recycling programs. Customer Satisfaction Crestliner has a loyal customer base, and for good reason. Their boats are known for their exceptional performance and longevity, making them a popular choice among boaters. The company also offers excellent customer service with a strong dealer network across the United States and Canada. Crestliner owners can rest assured that they will have access to reliable support whenever needed. In addition, Crestliner provides an extensive warranty program covering structural components of its boats for up to lifetime coverage depending on the model. Conclusion Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1946. The company's commitment to providing high-quality boats backed by innovative design and technology has made it one of the most trusted brands in the industry. With over 75 years of experience, Crestliner continues to set new standards in boat manufacturing while staying true to its core values of quality craftsmanship, innovation, environmental stewardship, and customer satisfaction. As we look towards the future, we can expect even more exciting developments from this iconic brand as it continues to shape the boating world.

Crestliner is a well-known boat manufacturing company that has been in operation for over 75 years. The company was founded in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946 by seven partners who were passionate about creating high-quality aluminum boats. However, the history of Crestliner also includes its expansion to Bettendorf, Iowa. In the late 1960s, Crestliner had become a successful and popular brand among fishermen and recreational boaters. To meet the growing demand for their products, the company decided to expand its operations beyond Minnesota. The search for a new location led Crestliner's executives to Bettendorf, Iowa. This city was chosen mainly because of its strategic location on the banks of Mississippi River – making it an ideal spot for boat production and easy access to transportation routes. In 1970, construction began on a state-of-the-art facility in Bettendorf. The new plant spanned over 125 acres and featured advanced equipment and technology that allowed for increased production capacity while maintaining high-quality standards. One unique aspect of this facility was its use of robotic welding machines – something that many other boat manufacturers were not using at the time. This allowed Crestliner to produce boats with more precision and efficiency than ever before. The opening of this new plant brought economic growth to Bettendorf as well. It created hundreds of jobs in various departments such as engineering, design, manufacturing, sales, marketing, customer service and more. With their expanded production capabilities from both locations (Little Falls & Bettendorf), Crestliner continued to innovate their product line with features like welded seams instead of rivets – ensuring better durability against water damage or punctures during outdoor excursions on lakes or rivers! Today,Crestliner remains one of America’s top-rated aluminum fishing boat brands – known particularly for their ruggedness,durability,and versatility across freshwater & saltwater environments alike! In fact,the American Boat Builders Association awarded Crestliner as the #1 customer satisfaction boat manufacturer in their annual CSI survey (2012-2020)! In addition to producing top-quality boats, Crestliner also values giving back to the communities where they operate. In Bettendorf, the company has been actively involved in supporting local charities and initiatives such as river clean-ups and youth fishing programs. Overall, Crestliner's expansion to Bettendorf has been a significant milestone in its history. The company's dedication to innovation and commitment to providing customers with reliable and high-performing boats have solidified its position as a leading player in the boating industry. With continued growth and success, it is clear that Crestliner will remain an important part of Bettendorf's economy for years to come.

Bettendorf, Iowa is a charming city located in Scott County in the state of Iowa. It is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River and is part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area along with Davenport, Moline, and Rock Island. The city has a population of over 36,000 residents and covers an area of 22 square miles. The history of Bettendorf dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled by European immigrants. Originally known as Lillienthal after one of its earliest settlers, Johann Lillienthal, the town was later renamed Bettendorf in honor of Colonel George Bettendorf who established his ironworks industry there in 1903. The growth and development of this industry brought prosperity to the town and attracted more people to settle there. Today, Bettendorf is a thriving community with a strong economy that is primarily driven by industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare services, education, and tourism. The city's strategic location along the Mississippi River also makes it an important transportation hub for goods coming from all over the country. One notable feature about Bettendorf is its beautiful parks and green spaces which make up almost 12% percent of its land area. These include Forest Grove Park which offers hiking trails and picturesque views overlooking downtown Davenport; Faye’s Field Park where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities such as fishing or picnicking; Crow Creek Park featuring sports fields for baseball and soccer; Veterans Memorial Park honoring those who have served in our armed forces; just to name a few. Bettendorf also boasts excellent educational opportunities for students at all levels with highly-rated schools like Pleasant Valley Community School District serving K-12 students while Scott Community College provides higher education options for both traditional college students as well as adult learners looking to further their careers through continuing education programs. In addition to its strong economic base and quality education system, Bettendorf also offers a variety of recreational and cultural activities for its residents. The city has numerous community events throughout the year such as the annual Summer Concert Series, Farmers Market, and festivals like the Quad Cities Balloon Festival. It is also home to several art galleries, theaters, and museums showcasing local artists and historical artifacts. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, Bettendorf has plenty to offer with its miles of bike trails along the Mississippi Riverfront as well as parks and nature preserves perfect for hiking or bird-watching. Water sports enthusiasts can also take advantage of the many marinas in town offering boat rentals or access to fishing on the river. Bettendorf is not just a great place to live but also a popular destination for tourists. Its proximity to other major cities in Iowa such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids makes it an ideal spot for day trips. Visitors can explore attractions like Adventureland theme park in Altoona or attend sporting events at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City. In conclusion, Bettendorf is a thriving Midwestern city that offers something for everyone – from strong economic opportunities to excellent educational options, beautiful parks and recreational spaces, diverse cultural experiences, and easy access to nearby attractions. Its friendly community atmosphere coupled with its natural beauty truly makes it a hidden gem in Iowa worth exploring.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, with a rich history that dates back over 75 years. Founded by two brothers in Minnesota, this company has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the world of recreational boats. The story of Crestliner begins in 1946 when James and Robert Evinrude, sons of Ole Evinrude – founder of the famous outboard motor company bearing his name – decided to venture into boat manufacturing. The two brothers had grown up around their father's business and were determined to make a mark for themselves in the boating industry. Initially named Aluminum Boat Company, they started their production by building small aluminum fishing boats designed specifically for inland lakes and rivers. Their first model was called "the Nimrod," which quickly gained popularity among anglers due to its lightweight design and durability. In 1951, the company changed its name to Crestliner after introducing their signature feature – an inverted hull design that gave boats increased stability on water. This innovation set them apart from competitors and became a defining characteristic of all Crestliner models. As demand for their products grew, so did the company's reputation for excellence. In 1960, Crestliner expanded its operations by opening another manufacturing facility in Little Falls, Minnesota. This move allowed them to increase production capacity and offer more variety in terms of boat sizes and features. Throughout the decades that followed, Crestliner continued to introduce new technologies such as welded seam construction methods that improved boat strength while reducing weight. They also incorporated advanced materials like fiberglass into their designs without compromising on affordability or performance. In addition to constant technological advancements, Crestliner focused on customer satisfaction through superior service. They established dealerships across North America to provide convenient access for customers looking for high-quality boats at competitive prices. By staying true to their core values of quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service, Crestliner solidified its position as one of the top boat manufacturers in the industry. In 1981, they were acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), a leading marine manufacturer at the time. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner continued to thrive and expand its product line. They added new models for various recreational activities such as skiing, cruising, and water sports while maintaining their commitment to durability and performance. In 2000, Brunswick Corporation purchased OMC's assets including Crestliner. This acquisition brought together two of the most iconic names in boating – Evinrude outboard motors and Crestliner boats – under one company. The merging of these brands allowed for further integration of technologies and resources to create even more innovative products. Today, Crestliner offers a wide range of aluminum fishing boats, pontoons, and fiberglass sport boats designed for both freshwater and saltwater use. Their lineup includes over 60 different models with customizable options to suit individual preferences. One notable feature that sets Crestliner apart from other boat manufacturers is their Lifetime +3 Warranty program. This warranty covers every new model sold after January 2017 for an unlimited period plus an additional three years on specific components like decking materials, electrical systems, livewells and bilge pumps. Over the years, Crestliner has received numerous awards for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction from organizations such as Boating Industry Magazine and J.D Power & Associates. These accolades are a testament to the company's dedication to delivering superior products that meet or exceed customer expectations. In conclusion, Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings in Minnesota over seven decades ago. From building small aluminum fishing boats to producing multi-functional recreational vessels using cutting-edge technology – this company has remained true to its roots while continuously evolving with changing market trends. As we look towards the future of boating industry innovations; one thing is certain -Crestliner will continue pushing boundaries through innovation while staying committed to providing customers with exceptional products and service. With its strong legacy and unwavering dedication to excellence, Crestliner is poised to remain a top player in the boating industry for many years to come.

Crestliner is a boat manufacturing company that has been in operation for over 70 years. It was founded in 1946 by Richard "Dick" Frost, who had previously worked at AlumaCraft and recognized the potential for aluminum boats in the market. He purchased an abandoned blacksmith shop in Little Falls, Minnesota and began producing Crestliner boats with a small team of employees. The first Crestliner models were simple flat-bottomed boats made from heavy-gauge aluminum sheets. They were marketed as rugged and durable fishing vessels, capable of navigating shallow waters and withstand harsh conditions. The company quickly gained popularity among fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts. In the 1950s, Crestliner expanded its product line to include V-hull models with sleeker designs and improved performance on open water. This allowed them to appeal to a wider audience beyond just fishermen. The brand continued to grow throughout the following decades, introducing new features such as livewells, trolling motors, and fish finders. In the late 1960s, Crestliner was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – one of the world's largest manufacturers of recreational products – which helped accelerate their growth even further. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner continued to innovate with new materials like fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) hulls while still maintaining their focus on durability and functionality. Throughout the 1980s and '90s, Crestliner introduced several popular models such as Sportfish series (a crossover between fishing boats and family runabouts), Nordic series (designed for cold-weather boating), Phantom series (high-performance bass boats), Pro-Tiller series (dedicated walleye fishing rigs), among others. In recent years, Crestliner has embraced advanced technology with features like digital dashboards equipped with touchscreen displays offering real-time data about engine performance; Bluetooth connectivity allowing for remote control of various boat systems; power steering systems making it easier to maneuver the boat; and more. In addition to its focus on innovation, Crestliner also values sustainability. The company has implemented eco-friendly practices in its manufacturing processes, including using recycled materials whenever possible and reducing waste and emissions. Today, Crestliner offers a diverse range of boats for various uses such as fishing, water sports, cruising, and more. They continue to be known for their high-quality construction and innovative designs that make boating easier and more enjoyable for their customers. With a rich history of over 70 years, Crestliner remains one of the most trusted brands in the boating industry.

Bettendorf, Iowa is a city located in Scott County, in the eastern part of the state. It is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River and was founded in 1833 by German immigrant brothers William and Joseph Bettendorf. The city has a rich history that stretches back over 180 years, with significant developments and events shaping its growth into the vibrant community it is today. Early Settlement The land where Bettendorf now stands was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including Sauk and Meskwaki people. In 1832, following negotiations with these tribes, the United States government opened up this territory for settlement to non-Native Americans through treaties known as Black Hawk Purchase. In 1833, William and Joseph Bettendorf arrived from Germany to settle in this area along with their families. They acquired land on both sides of Duck Creek (now known as Middle Road), which flowed into the Mississippi River. The brothers built a successful blacksmith business that served farmers traveling westward on their way to California during Gold Rush years. Growth & Development Over time, more settlers came to live near Duck Creek due to its fertile farmland and proximity to water transportation via Mississippi River. By mid-19th century several small villages had sprung up around what would become present-day Bettendorf; they were called Gilberttown (1859), Lillienthal (1868)and Crow Hill (1870). These three communities merged together under one name - Lillienthal – until eventually adopting "Bettendorf" as their official name in honor of its founders. One major catalyst for development occurred when John Deere relocated his plow factory from Moline across the river from Davenport into what became East Davenport neighborhood within modern-day Bettendorf boundaries between 1847-1852 – setting off an economic boom that lasted decades thereafter thanks largely due Deere's ingenuity and innovation in agriculture production. By 1900, Bettendorf had grown to over 1,500 residents and was officially incorporated as a city. The population continued to rise steadily throughout the early 20th century, reaching nearly 10,000 by the end of World War II. This growth was fueled by various industries such as lumber mills, farming equipment factories and other manufacturing plants that were drawn to the area for its prime location near both waterways and railroads. The Modern Era In the late 20th century, Bettendorf saw an increase in residential development with new neighborhoods being built along with commercial developments such as shopping centers. One notable addition is Isle Casino Hotel which opened in 1995 on land formerly occupied by Lillienthal village. In recent years, Bettendorf has experienced significant economic growth due to major investments from companies like Alcoa (aluminum manufacturer)and KONE (elevator/escalator company). Despite this period of rapid growth, Bettendorf has maintained its small-town charm and community feel through strong local government initiatives that focus on preserving open spaces while promoting sustainable development within city limits. Today & Future Outlook As of 2021 census estimates released by U.S Census Bureau shows nearly steady population numbers at around approximately over than thirty-five thousand people living within it’s boundaries – making it one among largest cities located entirely within Iowa state lines but also considered part Quad Cities metropolitan area along Davenport-Rock Island-Moline-Bettendorf Axis according definitions used US Office Management Budget since year nineteen fifty where Rock Island County Illinois historically holds highest number inhabitants than Scott County holding jurisdiction despite physical separation Mississippi River between two counties Bettendorf's future outlook is bright with ongoing efforts focused on maintaining a high quality of life for its residents while attracting new businesses and industries. The city continues to invest in infrastructure improvements including road expansions and updates to its water and sewer systems. The downtown area is also undergoing revitalization efforts, with the development of new businesses and public spaces. In addition, Bettendorf has a strong commitment to education with highly rated schools at all levels - from elementary through high school. It is also home to St. Ambrose University, a private liberal arts college that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various areas of study. The city also hosts several community events throughout the year such as the annual Bettendorf Block Party, Farmers Markets, and summer concerts in the park – providing opportunities for residents to come together and celebrate their community spirit. Conclusion Bettendorf's history is one of resilience and growth, shaped by its location along the Mississippi River and driven by innovative individuals who saw potential in this small town. From humble beginnings as a blacksmith shop on Duck Creek to becoming a thriving city with diverse industries and economic stability, Bettendorf continues to evolve while maintaining its small-town charm. As it looks towards the future, Bettendorf remains committed to preserving its rich history while embracing progress and striving for continued prosperity for its residents. With ongoing development initiatives focused on sustainability and quality of life improvements, there is no doubt that Bettendorf will continue to be a desirable place for people to live, work, and visit for many years to come.

Bettendorf, Iowa is a city located in Scott County in eastern Iowa. It is part of the Quad Cities metropolitan area, along with neighboring cities Davenport and Rock Island, Illinois. The city was originally known as Lillienthal after its founder, farmer William Bettendorf's hometown in Germany. The history of Bettendorf dates back to the early 1800s when it was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Meskwaki. In 1832, the first permanent settlement was established by a group of settlers from Ohio who built log cabins and started farming on the land. The area quickly grew into a thriving agricultural community due to its fertile soil and access to transportation via the Mississippi River. In 1856, John Deere opened his first steel plow factory in Moline, just across the river from Bettendorf. This brought economic growth to both sides of the river and laid the foundation for what would become one of America's largest manufacturing industries. The name "Lillienthal" was officially changed to "Bettendorf" in 1903 after William P. Bettendorf purchased large tracts of land with plans to build a new town on top of what used to be farmland. He saw potential in this location due to its proximity to railroads and waterways which made it an ideal spot for industrial development. During World War I, Bettendorf became an important hub for ammunition production thanks to companies like W.A.Sheaffer Pen Company (now BIC Corporation), Alcoa Aluminum Plant (now Arconic) ,and Modern Woodmen Park - home base for Minor League Baseball team Quad City River Bandits - then also manufacturing munitions before they were shipped off overseas. In addition to being an industrial center during war times, Bettendorf also continued its tradition as an agricultural powerhouse well into the mid-20th century. However, in the 1960s and 1970s, the city underwent a major transformation as it shifted from agriculture to industry and commerce. Today, Bettendorf is a modern and thriving community with a diverse economy that includes manufacturing, healthcare, education, technology, and tourism. It is home to several Fortune 500 companies such as John Deere World Headquarters and Arconic Inc., making it one of the largest employment centers in Iowa. The city has also invested in its quality of life through various developments such as Riverfront Parkway - an expansive riverwalk featuring parks, restaurants,and entertainment venues; Bettendorf Community Center - offering recreational activities for all ages; Duck Creek Park & Golf Course - a premier golf destination; Faye's Field at Veterans Memorial Park - hosting outdoor concerts & events year round ;and Tanglefoot Lagoon- a popular fishing spot for locals. In recent years, Bettendorf has been recognized nationally for its high standard of living. In 2018 alone ,the city was ranked #12 on USA Today's list of Best Places to Live in America (by Money Magazine), scored A+ rating on NerdWallet's "Best Cities for Young Families", ranked top mid-sized cities by Livability.com twice consecutively since 2016 ,and awarded Gold Star City status by Live Healthy Iowa . This recognition speaks volumes about how far this once small farming town has come over the years. As Bettendorf continues to grow and evolve into a bustling urban center while maintaining its charming small-town feel,it remains proud of its rich history which can be seen through landmarks like The W.P.Bettendorf Mansion - now listed on National Register Of Historic Places -, Family Museum showcasing interactive exhibits educating visitors about Quad Cities' past,present,future,& beyond-,as well as annual celebrations such as Beaux Arts Fair held every September taking place right next door at Figge Art Museum- highlighting the city's thriving arts scene. Overall, Bettendorf is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history that continues to shape its present and future. From humble beginnings as an agricultural community to a bustling industrial center, the city has evolved into a diverse and prosperous community that offers something for everyone.

Crestliner is a well-known and reputable brand in the boating industry, with a long history dating back to 1946. The company has its roots in Bettendorf, Iowa, where it was founded by four brothers who shared a passion for fishing and water sports. The story of Crestliner begins with the Larson brothers – Carl, Art, John, and Oscar. They grew up on the banks of the Mississippi River in Little Falls, Minnesota and spent most of their childhood fishing and boating on the river. As they got older, their love for water sports only grew stronger. In 1938, Carl Larson moved to Bettendorf to work at an aluminum fabricating plant called Alumacraft. He quickly realized that aluminum would be an ideal material for building boats due to its strength and durability. With this realization in mind, he convinced his three brothers to join him in Iowa so they could start crafting aluminum boats together. Together with their father Gustaf Larson Sr., who had experience working as a boat builder since 1920s; they started building small flat-bottomed rowboats made from marine-grade aluminum sheets right out of their garage. Their first big break came when local fisherman Ed McGinty approached them looking for a custom-built boat that could handle rough waters on the Mississippi River while being lightweight enough to be easily transported. The Larsons delivered exactly what he needed – a durable yet lightweight boat that was perfect for navigating through shallow waters while still being able to withstand strong currents. Word quickly spread about these high-quality handcrafted boats made by four talented brothers from Minnesota living in Iowa. Orders started pouring in from all over the Midwest region as more people wanted these reliable aluminum boats built specifically for fishing purposes. As demand increased significantly during World War II when materials like steel were scarce due to wartime production needs; Crestliner continued expanding its product line offering larger models such as cruisers, runabouts, and even sailboats. In 1945, the Larson brothers officially established Crestliner as a company in Bettendorf, Iowa. The name “Crestliner” was chosen to represent their high-quality boats designed for riding the crests of waves on open waters. The following year – 1946 marked Crestliner’s first official production line with a facility spanning over 100 feet long where they could build up to eight boats at once. The company also expanded its reach by opening dealerships across the country which helped them gain more market share quickly. As business continued to thrive through the years; it became evident that Crestliner needed a larger facility to accommodate increasing demand for their products. In 1958, they relocated to Little Falls, Minnesota where they were closer to their roots and had access to better resources such as highly skilled craftsmen who had been building boats since their father's time. By this time, Crestliner was already known for producing some of the finest aluminum boats in North America with superior craftsmanship and innovative designs that catered specifically for fishermen’s needs. Their reputation only grew stronger when they introduced all-welded hulls made from marine-grade aluminum which set them apart from other manufacturers using riveted construction methods. Throughout the next few decades, Crestliner continued expanding its product line offering various models such as pontoon boats, ski/wakeboard boats and deckboats while constantly innovating and incorporating advanced technologies into their manufacturing processes like robotic welding systems making them one of the most reliable boat brands out there today. In 1991 – Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner along with Lund Boats (another major player in fishing boat industry) allowing both brands access to greater resources including state-of-the-art engineering facilities responsible for developing new designs ensuring quality control standards are met before any model is released onto market resulting in unmatched durability backed by lifetime warranty coverage on select models still upheld today by current owners of Crestliner. In 2013, Crestliner celebrated its 75th anniversary and continued to thrive under Brunswick’s ownership with production facilities in Little Falls, Minnesota and New York Mills, Minnesota; as well as distribution centers across North America serving customers worldwide. In conclusion, the story of Crestliner is one that showcases passion for a craft turning into a successful business venture. From humble beginnings in Bettendorf, Iowa to becoming one of the most respected names in the boating industry – their commitment to quality craftsmanship has remained unchanged over the years. Today, Crestliner boats are still handcrafted by skilled craftsmen who take pride in building each boat to perfection ensuring every customer receives an exceptional product worthy of bearing the iconic crest logo.

Boat Crestliner Boats: The Ultimate Choice for Water Enthusiasts When it comes to boating, there are few names as synonymous with quality and reliability as Crestliner. For over 75 years, this American boat manufacturer has been producing some of the finest vessels on the water, earning a well-deserved reputation for their craftsmanship and innovation. From fishing boats to pontoons, Crestliner offers a diverse range of products that cater to every type of water enthusiast. History and Legacy Founded in 1946 by David L. Northrop, Crestliner started out as an aluminum canoe manufacturer in Little Falls, Minnesota. Northrop’s goal was simple - build high-quality boats that could withstand the harsh waters of the Upper Mississippi River Valley. With this vision in mind, he began experimenting with different materials and processes until he found a winning formula – welded seam construction using marine-grade aluminum alloy. This innovative approach allowed Crestliner to produce lightweight yet durable boats that were perfect for anglers and recreational boaters alike. As word spread about their superior craftsmanship and performance, demand for Crestliner’s products grew rapidly. In just two short decades since its inception, the company had established itself as one of America’s leading boat manufacturers. Today, Crestliner continues to uphold its legacy through its commitment to excellence and continuous improvement. Their state-of-the-art facility in Otsego, Minnesota is equipped with cutting-edge technology such as computer-aided design (CAD) software and robotic welding machines – ensuring that each boat leaving their production line meets strict quality standards. Innovation at Its Finest One thing that sets Crestliner apart from other boat manufacturers is their relentless pursuit of innovation. The company invests heavily in research and development (R&D), constantly pushing boundaries to create better-performing boats while keeping up with changing consumer needs. For example, they were among the first companies to use CAD software for designing their boats, allowing them to produce more accurate and detailed models. They also pioneered the use of robotic welding machines in boat production, ensuring consistency and precision in every weld. In addition to manufacturing processes, Crestliner has been at the forefront of introducing new features and technologies that enhance the boating experience. One such innovation is the SureMount Gunnel Accessory System – a versatile mounting system that allows for easy customization of fishing setups on their boats. Their advanced hull designs, like their trademarked "UniWeld" technology, provide unmatched stability and durability even in rough waters. Crestliner also understands that comfort is key when it comes to boating. That’s why they have incorporated luxurious seating options with ample storage space into their designs – making long days on the water more enjoyable for all passengers. Product Range Crestliner offers an impressive range of products catering to various water activities such as fishing, skiing, cruising or simply relaxing. Their line-up includes aluminum fishing boats ranging from 14-22 feet in length; pontoon boats available in multiple sizes with customizable layouts; as well as bay/center console boats designed for serious anglers who want maximum performance while navigating shallow waters. Their popular model series include: 1) Bass Hawk - Designed specifically for bass fishing enthusiasts with its spacious casting decks and dedicated rod storage compartments. 2) Fish Hawk - The ultimate multi-species fishing boat perfect for any type of angler looking for versatility. 3) Super Hawk - A crossover boat ideal for both recreational boaters and fishermen alike. 4) Sportfish - An ultra-comfortable pontoon boat equipped with amenities like plush furniture and premium sound systems. 5) Kodiak - A heavy-duty aluminum workhorse built tough enough to handle any lake or river conditions. Sustainability Efforts Aside from delivering top-quality products, Crestliner is also committed to sustainability efforts aimed at preserving our natural resources. They understand that responsible manufacturing practices are critical to ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the water as we do today. As part of their sustainability efforts, Crestliner has implemented eco-friendly measures such as using recyclable materials in their boats and reducing waste during production. They also work with local organizations to promote conservation and responsible boating practices. Final Thoughts In conclusion, Crestliner is a brand that truly lives up to its tagline – "Built for Adventure". With over seven decades of experience, they have established themselves as a leader in the boating industry by continuously innovating and delivering top-notch products. Their commitment to quality, reliability, innovation, and sustainability make them a clear choice for anyone looking for an exceptional boating experience. So whether you’re an avid angler or simply love spending time on the water, Crestliner has something for everyone.