Mercury Marine is a global leader in the marine industry, known for its high-quality outboard motors and innovative technologies. However, not many people are aware of the company's rich history in Clinton, Iowa. The story of Mercury Marine in Clinton began in 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturer called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company. At that time, Kiekhaefer was an engineering graduate from the University of Michigan and had no prior experience in manufacturing or boating. Nevertheless, he saw potential in this struggling company and decided to take over as its owner and president. Initially located on Lake Michigan's western shore near Milwaukee with just 300 employees, Cedarburg Manufacturing Company was renamed Mercury Outboard Motors after one of the Roman gods' messenger wings - Mercury. The first few years were tough for Kiekhaefer as he faced numerous challenges while trying to establish his business. However, his determination paid off when he landed a contract with the U.S government during World War II to supply lightweight outboard motors for military boats. After successfully fulfilling this contract, Kiekhaefer set his sights on expanding his business further by moving it inland away from Lake Michigan's unpredictable weather conditions. He chose Clinton as their new location due to its central location within the United States and access to transportation through railroads and waterways. In June 1946, Mercury Outboard Motors officially opened its doors at its new factory located at 1000 Division Street on Bluff Island (now known as Eagle Point Park). The move brought significant economic growth to Clinton's small community by providing job opportunities for local workers who previously worked on farms or at lumber mills. With improved production facilities came advanced technology that revolutionized boat engines' manufacturing process worldwide. In addition to producing reliable outboards with superior performance capabilities compared to traditional two-stroke engines used during that time frame; they also introduced groundbreaking features such as electronic ignition to the marine industry. Mercury Marine's success in Clinton continued to grow throughout the 1950s and 1960s, with annual sales reaching $50 million by 1965. The company had become the largest employer in Clinton, providing over 4,000 jobs at its peak production capacity. Moreover, they were also recognized for their commitment to innovation by receiving several patents and awards for their advancements in outboard motor technology. However, Mercury Marine's journey was not without challenges. In the early 1970s, environmental concerns about pollution from two-stroke engines arose due to a significant increase in boating activities along waterways across the United States. As a result of these concerns and increasing government regulations on emissions control laws, Mercury Marine faced an uncertain future. To overcome this challenge head-on while maintaining its position as an industry leader; Mercury Marine invested heavily in research and development efforts focused on producing more environmentally friendly four-stroke engines that met strict emission standards set by government agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This investment paid off when they introduced their first four-stroke engine - "The Verado" - which revolutionized boat propulsion systems with its quiet operation and low emissions technology. Today, nearly eight decades since it first opened its doors in Clinton; Mercury Marine continues to thrive thanks to Kiekhaefer's vision of producing reliable outboards supported by continuous innovation through extensive R&D investments. With over 3 million square feet of manufacturing space spread across five plants located within a three-mile radius; it is one of Iowa's largest employers with approximately 2,300 employees working at its state-of-the-art facilities. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has come a long way since its humble beginnings at Cedarburg Manufacturing Company near Lake Michigan back in 1939. Its move inland towards Clinton proved crucial for establishing itself as one of America's top manufacturers of high-quality outboard motors. The company's continuous commitment to innovation and technological advancements has not only helped it overcome challenges but also transformed the marine industry, making boating more accessible and enjoyable for millions of people worldwide. Its rich history in Clinton is undoubtedly a testament to its success as a global leader in the marine industry today.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, catering to the recreational boating and commercial marine industries. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has grown exponentially over the years and is now a subsidiary of Brunswick Corporation. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has production facilities in North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. The company employs over 6,000 people worldwide and sells its products through a network of dealers across more than 100 countries. Mercury Marine offers an extensive range of products including outboard motors, sterndrive engines, inboard engines, propellers and accessories. Their engines are designed for various types of boats such as fishing boats, pontoons, cruisers and high-performance sports boats. With advanced technology and innovative designs at its core, Mercury Marine has established itself as an industry leader when it comes to marine propulsion systems. Their products are known for their durability, reliability and fuel efficiency – making them popular among both recreational boaters and commercial operators alike. In addition to manufacturing top-quality marine engines, Mercury Marine also provides exceptional customer service through its global network of dealers. This includes technical support services, product training programs for dealerships as well as online resources for boat owners. Their commitment to customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards from organizations like the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) and Boating Industry Magazine. Over the years, the company has continuously invested in research & development to stay ahead of market trends. This dedication towards innovation can be seen through their constant introduction of new technologies that have revolutionized the boating industry. One example is their patented Verado® line which features supercharged four-stroke outboards that provide unmatched power while maintaining quiet operation. Environmental sustainability is also a key focus for Mercury Marine. The company constantly works towards reducing emissions from their products while still providing superior performance. In 2018, they launched their first diesel outboard engine – the Dtorque 111 which offers lower emissions and higher fuel efficiency compared to traditional gasoline engines. Furthermore, Mercury Marine has also implemented sustainable manufacturing practices in its production facilities such as reducing water usage and implementing energy-saving measures. Apart from their commitment towards product innovation and sustainability, Mercury Marine is also dedicated to giving back to the community through various charitable initiatives. The company actively supports organizations like the American Red Cross, United Way and Habitat for Humanity through donations, volunteer work and fundraising events. In recent years, Mercury Marine has made significant investments in expanding its global footprint. In 2016, they opened a state-of-the-art aluminum casting facility in Wisconsin which enabled them to bring previously outsourced production processes back in-house. They have also expanded their presence in Asia by opening a new headquarters and technical center in Shanghai, China. Despite facing challenges such as fluctuating market conditions, increasing competition and changing consumer preferences, Mercury Marine continues to thrive due to its strong brand reputation, innovative products and customer-centric approach. They are constantly evolving with the industry and adapting to new technologies while staying true to their core values of quality, reliability and customer satisfaction. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has come a long way since its inception over eight decades ago. From humble beginnings as a small engineering firm specializing in boat motors, the company has now grown into one of the most recognized brands in the marine industry worldwide. Their dedication towards innovation, sustainability and community involvement sets them apart from other manufacturers and positions them as leaders within the boating world. With continued focus on these principles along with strategic expansion plans, it is evident that Mercury Marine will continue to be at the forefront of marine propulsion systems for many years to come.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has been an integral part of the Clinton, Iowa community for over 60 years. The company was founded in Cedarburg, Wisconsin in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer and initially produced outboard motors for small boats. In the late 1950s, Mercury Marine began looking to expand its operations and chose Clinton as the new location for its manufacturing plant due to its access to waterways and rail transport. In 1956, construction began on a state-of-the-art facility on a former farm site just south of Clinton. The plant officially opened in 1957 with about 300 employees. The early years at the Clinton facility were focused on producing two-stroke engines for recreational use. However, by the mid-1960s, Mercury Marine had expanded into producing sterndrive engines (inboard/outboard) and other marine products such as propellers and controls. Throughout the following decades, Mercury Marine continued to grow and innovate at its Clinton plant. In addition to expanding their product line with new engine models and accessories, they also introduced advanced technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems that improved performance and efficiency. In the mid-2000s, Mercury Marine underwent a major expansion at their Clinton facility which included building a new casting foundry capable of producing larger components like exhaust manifolds. This allowed them to consolidate production from multiple facilities around North America into one location – making it one of their largest facilities worldwide. Today, Mercury Marine’s presence in Clinton continues to be significant both economically and socially within the community. With over 1 million square feet of manufacturing space spread across three buildings covering nearly half-mile along US Highway 67 South - it employs approximately 800 people year-round while adding several hundred more during peak boating season months. Aside from being one of Iowa’s largest employers – providing jobs ranging from assembly line workers all way up management positions – Mercury Marine is also a major contributor to the local economy through its partnerships with numerous suppliers and service providers in Clinton and the surrounding areas. The company has also been actively involved in supporting community initiatives, such as sponsoring local events and organizations including the annual Clinton River Rodeo, Youth Sports Organizations, American Heart Association’s Heart Walks among others. Additionally, Mercury Marine employees regularly volunteer their time for various charitable causes and community service projects. In recent years, Mercury Marine has continued to expand its presence in Clinton through investments in new equipment and technologies aimed at improving efficiency and product quality. As the marine industry continues to evolve, this iconic company remains committed to being a leader in innovation while maintaining its strong ties to the Clinton community.

Clinton, Iowa is a charming and historic city located in the eastern region of the state. It is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River and has a population of approximately 25,000 people. The city has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1836 and has played an important role in shaping Iowa's economy, culture, and politics. The Early Days Clinton was originally called "New York" after its founder Colonel George Davenport who hailed from New York City. However, it was later renamed Clinton after DeWitt Clinton who served as governor of New York from 1817 to 1823. The area had been inhabited by Native American tribes for centuries before European settlers arrived. One of Clinton's earliest industries was lumbering due to its location along the river. This led to rapid growth and development as more people settled in the area seeking work opportunities. In addition to lumber mills, other major industries included flour mills, foundries, breweries, and manufacturing plants. Incorporation & Growth Clinton officially became a city in 1857 with a mayor-council form of government. During this time period, many notable figures visited or resided in Clinton including Abraham Lincoln who delivered his famous "House Divided" speech at Ashford House (now known as Lyons Manor). Another significant event that took place during this era was the construction of railroads which greatly facilitated trade and commerce within the city. Innovation & Prosperity The turn of the century brought about even more advancements for Clinton with innovations such as electric street lights being installed throughout downtown. This helped pave way for further developments like telephone lines being established between businesses and residences. As industry grew stronger during World War I due to increased demand for goods like steel products used for military equipment production - so too did employment opportunities within factories located throughout town – both boosting economic prosperity significantly over previous decades! Politics & Culture Politically, Clinton has been a significant player in Iowa's history. It was the birthplace of two governors – William Larrabee and Albert Cummins – who went on to serve as US Senators. The city was also home to several prominent industrialists and business leaders who played key roles in shaping the state's economy. In terms of culture, Clinton is known for its diverse population and vibrant arts scene. The community celebrates its melting pot heritage through events such as the annual Riverboat Days festival which showcases various ethnic cuisines, music, and traditions. Challenges & Resilience Like many cities across America, Clinton faced challenges during the Great Depression which resulted in economic downturns and a decline in population. However, it managed to bounce back with renewed vigor thanks to industries like agriculture (specifically corn processing) that helped sustain its economy. In recent years, Clinton has faced additional struggles due to changes in global economics resulting in job loss within certain industries. But once again, residents have remained resilient by diversifying their local workforce while also promoting tourism initiatives that bring visitors from neighboring states into town! Today & Future Outlook Clinton continues to thrive as a bustling city with strong ties to its past but also an eye towards future progress. Its beautiful riverfront area offers recreational activities such as fishing and boating along with scenic views of the Mississippi River. The city is also investing heavily into revitalizing downtown through projects like renovating historical buildings for modern use and creating new public spaces like parks and walking trails. As technology advances at an ever-increasing rate - so too do opportunities for growth within companies located here! From healthcare providers expanding services or research labs finding cures; businesses are continually finding ways they can contribute positively towards making sure our citizens maintain quality lifestyles long-term - all whilst preserving heritage sites we've come cherish over time! Conclusion In conclusion, Clinton is not just any ordinary small Midwestern town – it’s a vibrant community with a rich history and a promising future. From its early days as a lumbering town to its present-day status as an important economic hub, Clinton has always been resilient in the face of challenges. Its diverse population, strong sense of community, and commitment to progress make it an ideal place to live, work, and visit.

Mercury Marine, a division of the Brunswick Corporation, has been a leading manufacturer of marine engines for over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the boating industry. From humble beginnings to its current status as one of the largest manufacturers of marine propulsion systems in the world, Mercury Marine’s history is filled with triumphs and challenges that have shaped its success. The journey of Mercury Marine began when founder Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturer called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company in Wisconsin. With only $2,000 to his name, Kiekhaefer took on this struggling company and renamed it “Kiekhaefer Corporation.” Initially producing magnetic separators for dairy farms and outboard motor parts for other companies, Kiekhaefer soon decided to take matters into his own hands and develop his own outboard motor design. In 1940, the first Mercury outboard motor was introduced – a two-cylinder model that produced six horsepower. The name “Mercury” was chosen because it evoked thoughts of speed and agility – two qualities that would come to define Mercury Marine’s products. This initial launch was met with great success; by 1941, production had reached over 200 units per week. However, just as things were starting to take off for Mercury Marine, World War II broke out and halted all consumer production. Recognizing an opportunity in supplying military equipment during wartime, Kiekhaefer shifted focus from recreational boats to developing motors for landing craft used by Allied forces in Europe during D-Day operations. This decision not only helped keep the company afloat during difficult times but also allowed them to gain valuable engineering knowledge that would be applied to future product development. After the war ended and recreational boating resumed its popularity among Americans looking for leisure activities post-war era,Kiekaefer Corporation rebranded itself as Mercury Marine and resumed production of outboard motors. In the 1950s, Mercury Marine continued to innovate with the introduction of its first four-cylinder motor and a line of performance-oriented racing engines. These developments solidified Mercury’s reputation for quality and propelled them to become one of the top outboard motor manufacturers in the industry. In addition to expanding their product line, Mercury Marine also expanded its reach globally. In 1961, they opened their first international plant in Belgium to meet growing demand from European markets. This was followed by additional plants opening in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other countries throughout the years. As boating technology advanced over time, so did Mercury Marine’s products. They introduced new technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and direct fuel injection – making their motors more efficient and environmentally friendly than ever before. In 1995, they launched “OptiMax” – a revolutionary two-stroke engine that provided better fuel economy while still maintaining high levels of power. The turn of the century marked another milestone for Mercury Marine when it became part of Brunswick Corporation in 2005. This merger allowed for further investments into research & development which resulted in innovative new products like Verado - a supercharged four-stroke engine designed specifically for larger boats. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be at the forefront of marine propulsion technology with its wide range of products including outboards, sterndrives,inboard engines,and diesel engines.Mercury has also diversified into other areas such as accessories like propellers,fuel tanks,and control systems.This diversification has helped them maintain their position as an industry leader even during challenging times such as economic downturns or changes in consumer preferences. In recent years,Mercury has focused on sustainable practices by investing heavily into reducing emissions through electric propulsion options.In fact,the company recently unveiled "Project Zeus" - an electric/hybrid drivetrain system designed for larger boats.This move towards sustainability demonstrates Mercury Marine's commitment to being a responsible and environmentally conscious company. Mercury Marine’s success can be attributed to its dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With over 80 years of experience in the industry, they have continuously pushed the boundaries of what is possible in marine propulsion technology. Their products are trusted by boaters all around the world and their commitment to excellence has made them a household name among boat enthusiasts. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s history is one filled with determination, resilience,and a drive for continuous improvement. From its humble beginnings as Kiekhaefer Corporation to becoming an international powerhouse in the marine industry,Mercury has established itself as a leader through its relentless pursuit of excellence. As they continue to evolve with changing times and technologies, it is clear that Mercury Marine will remain at the forefront of innovation in the boating world for many years to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of outboard motors, marine engines, and propellers. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Kiekhaefer had previously worked for the Evinrude Motor Company but left to start his own business. Initially named "Kiekhaefer Corporation," the company began by producing chainsaws. However, after World War II broke out and the demand for chainsaws decreased, Kiekhaefer shifted his focus to developing a lightweight two-cylinder engine for boat motors. In 1946, the first Mercury outboard motor was introduced - the Model A - which quickly gained popularity due to its reliability and performance. By 1949, Mercury became one of the top three manufacturers of small boat motors in America. During this time period, Mercury also expanded its product line to include racing boats and engines. In fact, their racing team achieved great success in competitions such as hydroplane races on Lake Mead and offshore powerboat races on Lake Michigan. In 1951, Kiekhaefer renamed his company "Mercury Marine" to better reflect its focus on marine products. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury continued to innovate with new technologies such as electric starting systems and remote controls for outboard motors. By the late 1960s, Mercury had become one of the largest manufacturers of outboard motors in North America with factories located all over Wisconsin. In addition to their popular recreational models like Thunderbolt FourStroke or OptiMax Pro XS series engines (both still available today), they also produced commercial-grade engines for fishing boats and other workboats. Innovations continued into the 1970s when Mercury developed stern drive technology that allowed an engine's power to be transferred through a lower unit attached directly onto a transom without requiring propulsion mechanisms within the boat's hull. This led to the development of the MerCruiser stern drive system, which quickly became a top choice for powerboats. In 1979, Mercury Marine was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, leading to further expansion and diversification of its products. In addition to outboard motors and stern drives, Mercury also began producing inboard engines and marine accessories such as propellers, control systems, and gauges. Over the years, Mercury has continued to push boundaries with new technologies such as Verado FourStroke outboards that provide increased fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. They have also expanded into new markets including international sales in Europe and Asia. Today, Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and employs over 7,000 people worldwide. The company continues to be a leader in the marine industry through its commitment to innovation and quality products. With over 80 years of history behind them, it's clear that Mercury Marine will continue to be a major player in the boating world for many more years to come.

Clinton, Iowa is a small city located along the banks of the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa. It is the county seat of Clinton County and has a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1836. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Sauk and Meskwaki people who used the river as a major transportation route. In 1805, Lieutenant Zebulon Pike led an expedition up the Mississippi River and noted on his maps that there was potential for settlement in what is now Clinton. However, it wasn't until 1832 when George Davenport, a trader from Illinois, established a trading post near present-day LeClaire Park that permanent European-American settlers began to arrive. The town was officially platted in 1836 and named after New York Governor DeWitt Clinton. In its early years, Clinton grew rapidly due to its location on the river which allowed for easy access to trade routes and transportation of goods. By 1850, it had become one of the largest lumber markets in America with over thirty sawmills operating along its waterfront. In addition to lumber trade, agriculture also played a significant role in Clinton's economy during this time period. The fertile land surrounding the city made it ideal for farming and many settlers came specifically for this purpose. Corn became one of their main crops along with wheat and oats. As industry continued to grow throughout the late 19th century, so did Clinton's population. In 1863, railroad service arrived bringing new opportunities for commerce and manufacturing industries such as iron foundries and flour mills were established. However , like many other cities during this time period , disaster struck when fire ravaged through much of downtown Clinton destroying many businesses . Despite this setback , residents quickly rebuilt their community which included constructing brick buildings instead of wooden structures . During World War II , companies in Clinton shifted their focus towards supporting war efforts . The General Ordinance Plant , which was built in 1942, produced guns and ammunition for the war . This brought a boost to the local economy and helped Clinton become known as "The Arsenal of America." In the latter half of the 20th century, Clinton underwent significant changes with the decline of its traditional industries. Many factories closed down or relocated causing an economic downturn. However, efforts were made to diversify and revitalize the city's economy. One major development during this time was the establishment of Mercy Medical Center in 1973. It became one of the largest employers in Clinton and has continued to expand over the years. Today, Clinton is home to approximately 26,000 residents who are proud of their city's rich history and community spirit. Visitors can explore this history at numerous museums including The Sawmill Museum which showcases artifacts from its early lumber days. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy LeClaire Park which offers stunning views of both Iowa and Illinois across the river. There are also many festivals held throughout the year such as Riverboat Days that celebrate Clinton's heritage and bring together locals and tourists alike. In recent years, there have been efforts made to continue revitalizing downtown areas through historic preservation projects like The Lyons District which features restored buildings now used for residential spaces, restaurants, shops ,and offices . Clinton may have faced challenges throughout its long history but it has always bounced back stronger than before thanks to its resilient community . As it continues to evolve , it remains a thriving city along one of America's most iconic rivers with a unique blend of small-town charm and industrial innovation .

Clinton, Iowa has a rich and diverse history that is deeply intertwined with the growth and development of the United States. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, Clinton was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk and Meskwaki before European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. In 1835, George Davenport established a trading post at what is now known as Rock Island Rapids near present-day Clinton. This area quickly became an important hub for trade between Native Americans and fur traders. In 1837, Joseph M. Bartlet built a sawmill along Mill Creek, which led to further development in the area. The year 1855 marked an important milestone in Clinton's history as it was officially incorporated as a city. The city was named after DeWitt Clinton, a former governor of New York who played a significant role in building the Erie Canal. One of Clinton's most notable historical events occurred during the Civil War when it served as an important location for Union troops due to its strategic position along the Mississippi River. The town also played host to several training camps for soldiers throughout this time period. During this period of rapid expansion and industrialization, many industries were established in Clinton including lumber mills, flour mills, foundries, and other manufacturing facilities. These industries brought jobs and economic prosperity to the area. However, like many cities across America at this time period, racial tensions were high in Clinton leading up to World War I. African Americans living in or passing through town faced discrimination from businesses refusing service or being denied fair wages compared to their white counterparts. In addition to industry growth during this time period came advancements in transportation technology that transformed life in Clinton forever. In 1868,the first railroad line reached town connecting it with Chicago making travel easier than ever before. By late-19th century into early-20th century agriculture began flourishing again thanks primarily due corn and soybean farming. In fact, the Clinton area became home to several large agricultural implement manufacturers including J.I. Case, which brought in even more economic growth. During the 20th century, Clinton continued to thrive and diversify its economy with the addition of new industries such as meatpacking plants and a major oil refinery. The city also saw an influx of immigrants from countries such as Germany, Ireland, Italy, and Eastern Europe who came seeking employment opportunities. Clinton faced challenges during this time period as well including devastating floods in 1965 and again in 1993 that caused extensive damage to the city. However, through resilience and community support, Clinton was able to recover each time. Today, Clinton is a thriving city with a population of over 25,o00 residents. It remains an important industrial center for Iowa with industries such as manufacturing, agriculture processing facilities,and healthcare services leading the way. In recent years there has been a strong focus on revitalizing downtown Clinton by preserving historic buildings while attracting new businesses and tourism opportunities. This includes projects like Riverfront Park which offers scenic views of the Mississippi River along with events throughout the year that bring people together. Overall,the history of Clinton reflects its transformation from a small trading post into a bustling river town known for its diverse economy,strong sense of community,and deep connection to both past strugglesand present achievements.This vibrant city continues to evolve while honoring its rich history,making it an exciting place to live or visit at any time.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, with a rich history that dates back over 80 years. Founded in Wisconsin in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has grown to become a global leader in the boating industry. However, it was not until the mid-1960s when Mercury Marine established its presence in Clinton, Iowa. The town of Clinton was chosen as the site for Mercury Marine's new manufacturing plant due to its strategic location on the banks of the Mississippi River. This allowed for easy transportation and shipping of products across North America and around the world. The first facility opened in 1966 with just 90 employees and produced only two models of outboard motors. However, this small operation quickly grew as demand for Mercury Marine's products increased rapidly. By 1971, there were over 500 employees working at the Clinton plant producing six different models of engines. In addition to outboard motors, they also started manufacturing stern drives (inboard/outboard) which became popular among recreational boat owners. Innovation has been at the core of Mercury Marine since its inception, and this continued to be evident during their time in Clinton. In 1982, they introduced their first four-stroke engine – an innovation that would revolutionize powerboat technology worldwide. Throughout its history in Clinton, Mercury Marine faced challenges such as economic downturns and fierce competition from other manufacturers. However, under strong leadership and continuous investment into research and development (R&D), they have managed to navigate through these obstacles successfully. One significant event that shaped both Mercury’s operations globally as well as their presence within Iowa came about after Brunswick Corporation acquired them in April 2005 - making them part of one biggest conglomerates within boating industry worldwide known today under "Brunswick Boat Group." This partnership brought new opportunities for growth but also posed some challenges for operations at their Iowa plant. In 2008, a decision was made to consolidate the Clinton manufacturing facility and move production of four-stroke engines to another location in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The consolidation resulted in the closure of the Clinton plant, where over 50 years they employed thousands of workers. The news came as a shock to many in the community who had grown reliant on Mercury Marine for employment and economic stability. However, Brunswick Corporation ensured that all employees affected by this decision were given severance packages and opportunities for relocation within their other facilities. Despite this setback, Mercury Marine continued its presence in Iowa through its engineering design center located in Cedar Falls – which is responsible for developing new products and technologies used worldwide today. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be an industry leader with operations across six continents. Their outboard motors are known for their reliability, fuel-efficiency, and cutting-edge technology. They have also expanded their product line to include propulsion systems for commercial vessels such as ferries and workboats. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest from Brunswick Corporation into expanding operations back into Clinton once again - due largely because Iowa’s governor has been actively promoting incentives aimed at making it more attractive towards businesses seeking growth opportunities along Mississippi River corridor (wherein lies some advantages). This would bring about jobs creation within region while providing support towards local economy's development at same time. In conclusion, although Mercury Marine's time in Clinton may have come to an end after over five decades of operation, its impact on both the boating industry globally as well as the local community will not be forgotten. The company played a significant role in shaping technological advancements within marine propulsion systems while also contributing greatly towards economic growth and stability within Iowa. Moreover, their legacy lives on through their partnership with Brunswick Corporation and continued presence through engineering design center based in Cedar Falls. As long-time CEO Mark Schwabero stated during his visit to Clinton before closing down operations, “Mercury Marine may be leaving Clinton, but that doesn't mean we're abandoning it. We’re just shifting our focus to other areas of growth and development.” This sentiment speaks to the enduring impact Mercury Marine has had on the town of Clinton and its people. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Clinton is a testament to their resilience, innovation, and commitment towards providing top-quality products for boating enthusiasts worldwide. Their legacy will continue to live on as they remain at the forefront of marine technology.

Mercury Marine is a company that has been at the forefront of marine technology for over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by E. Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has become a global leader in designing, manufacturing, and distributing high-performance marine engines, parts, and accessories. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine employs more than 6,000 people worldwide and operates in over 50 countries. The company's success can be attributed to its constant innovation and commitment to providing customers with reliable and efficient products. One of the key factors behind Mercury Marine's success is its dedication to research and development. The company invests heavily in R&D to continuously improve its products and stay ahead of the competition. This focus on innovation has led to numerous technological advancements that have revolutionized the boating industry. One such example is Mercury Marine's introduction of sterndrive propulsion systems back in the late 1950s. This innovative system replaced traditional outboard motors with an integrated engine-drive unit mounted inside the boat hull. It provided better handling, increased speed capabilities, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced maintenance costs compared to traditional outboards. In addition to sterndrives, Mercury Marine also offers a wide range of outboard engines ranging from small portable ones for recreational use all the way up to powerful racing engines used by professional teams around the world. These engines are known for their durability, power delivery, fuel efficiency, low emissions levels as well as advanced features such as joystick piloting technology for easy maneuvering. Apart from producing marine engines themselves; Mercury Marine also manufactures a variety of propellers designed specifically for their own line-up of engines. These precision-engineered propellers not only enhance performance but also reduce noise levels while providing unparalleled durability even under extreme conditions. Furthermore; one cannot talk about Mercury Marine without mentioning their award-winning service network which comprises thousands of dealerships around the world. These dealerships not only sell Mercury Marine products but also provide top-notch service and support to customers. This ensures that boat owners have access to trained professionals who can assist with any maintenance or repair needs for their Mercury Marine engine. In addition to engines and propellers, Mercury Marine also offers a wide range of accessories such as gauges, controls, steering systems, and more. These accessories are designed to work seamlessly with their engines and provide customers with a complete solution for their boating needs. Mercury Marine has also made significant strides in environmental sustainability over the years. The company has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint; including using recycled materials in manufacturing processes, developing fuel-efficient engines, and adhering to strict emission standards set by regulatory bodies worldwide. Moreover; safety is another area where Mercury Marine excels. The company continuously invests in research and development of new safety features like digital throttle & shift (DTS) technology which allows for precise control of the engine while eliminating mechanical linkages between the throttle lever at the helm station and the engine itself. In recent years; Mercury Marine has expanded its product line beyond traditional marine propulsion systems. In 2018, they introduced an electric outboard motor called "E-TEC" which boasts zero emissions without sacrificing performance or reliability. This move demonstrates Mercury's commitment towards sustainable boating solutions while staying ahead of industry trends. Apart from producing high-quality products; another aspect that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is its involvement in motorsports events around the world. The company sponsors numerous powerboat racing teams across different classes including offshore racing championships such as OPA Racing Series & American Power Boat Association Offshore Championship series among others. Furthermore; through partnerships with organizations like Fishing League Worldwide (FLW), Bassmaster Elite Series & National Walleye Tour (NWT); Mercury provides anglers access to cutting-edge fishing technologies that help them achieve success on the water. In conclusion, Mercury Marine has had a significant impact on the boating industry since its inception. Through constant innovation, dedication to quality, and commitment to sustainability; the company has become a global leader in marine technology. With over 80 years of experience and a strong focus on customer satisfaction; it is no surprise that Mercury Marine continues to be the go-to choice for boat owners and enthusiasts worldwide.