Mercury Marine is a world-renowned company that has been at the forefront of the marine industry for over 80 years. The company, which was established in 1939, has its roots in Davenport, Iowa and has played a significant role in shaping the city's economy and history. The story of Mercury Marine began with one man's dream to build an engine that could power boats faster than any other engine on the market. That man was Carl Kiekhaefer, who had graduated from Wisconsin’s University of Madison with a degree in engineering. In 1939, he founded Kiekhaefer Corporation which specialized in manufacturing outboard motors. Initially, Kiekhaefer focused on developing two-stroke engines for commercial use such as powering pumps and farm equipment. However, his passion for speed led him to experiment with boat engines. He soon developed an innovative design featuring lightweight aluminum castings that made it possible to produce compact but powerful outboard motors. In 1940, Kiekhaefer relocated his business from Cedarburg, Wisconsin to Davenport , Iowa due to its strategic location along the Mississippi River. This allowed easy access to raw materials needed for production as well as shipping routes across America's waterways. Kiekhaefer’s decision proved wise as his business quickly grew and became known for producing high-quality marine engines used by fishermen and boating enthusiasts alike. By 1946, the company changed its name from Kiekhaefer Corporation to Mercury Marine – inspired by Roman god Mercury who symbolized speed and agility. Over time, Mercury Marine continued expanding its product line introducing larger engines suitable for recreational boating activities like water skiing and cruising. These innovations propelled their growth even further making them leaders in their field while creating job opportunities within Davenport. In addition to manufacturing top-of-the-line products, Mercury Marine also prioritized customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service through their dealerships across the country. This made them a trusted brand among boaters and solidified their position as industry leaders. In the 1960s, Mercury Marine once again showed its commitment to Davenport by opening a new research and development facility in the city. This further strengthened the company's presence in Iowa, contributing significantly to its economy through employment opportunities and tax revenue. By this time, Mercury Marine had become a household name not only in America but globally. In 1973, it was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – one of the world’s largest manufacturers of boats and marine engines. This partnership led to even more advanced technology being incorporated into Mercury Marine's products while still maintaining its headquarters in Davenport. Through the years, Mercury Marine has continued expanding its operations in Davenport with additional facilities for manufacturing propellers and boat parts. The company has also invested heavily in environmental initiatives such as reducing emissions from their engines to protect water quality – showcasing their dedication to sustainability. Today, over 80 years since its inception, Mercury Marine remains an essential part of Davenport's history and economy. It employs thousands of people directly and indirectly through dealership networks while also supporting local businesses that supply raw materials for production. Furthermore, Mercury Marine plays an active role in giving back to society through various corporate social responsibility programs such as supporting educational initiatives aimed at preserving our planet's waterways for future generations. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s history is deeply intertwined with that of Davenport , Iowa . From humble beginnings as Kiekhaefer Corporation to becoming a global leader in marine engineering under Brunswick Corporation - this journey showcases how one man’s vision has shaped an entire industry while making significant contributions towards building a thriving community within Iowa.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems and related products. Founded in 1939, the company has been at the forefront of innovation and technology in the boating industry for over eight decades. Based in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation and has a global presence with manufacturing facilities in Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. The company's journey began when two immigrant brothers from Belgium, E. Carl Kiekhaefer and his brother Harold "Hal" Kiekhaefer founded Kiekhaefer Corporation to manufacture magnetic separators for dairy farmers. However, they soon shifted their focus to producing outboard motors after receiving an order from Montgomery Ward for several hundred air-cooled outboards. In 1940, the first Mercury Outboard motor was introduced – the Lightning Six – which became an instant success due to its lightweight design and high-performance capabilities compared to other models available on the market at that time. This marked the beginning of Mercury Marine's legacy as a pioneer in marine propulsion systems. Over the years, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product portfolio by introducing new technologies such as four-stroke engines (1957), sterndrives (1961), electronic fuel injection (1996), joystick piloting system (2013) and most recently VesselView Mobile app (2020). These advancements have not only improved performance but also enhanced fuel efficiency while reducing emissions – making boating more enjoyable while being environmentally responsible. One of Mercury Marine's biggest achievements came in 1962 when astronaut Scott Carpenter used one of their outboards during NASA's Project Mercury space mission. The engine successfully propelled his spacecraft Aurora 7 into orbit around Earth three times before he safely splashed down into the Atlantic Ocean – demonstrating Mercury’s reliability even under extreme conditions. In addition to technological innovations, another key factor contributing to Mercury Marine’s success is its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. The company has a rigorous testing process where each engine undergoes over 100 hours of non-stop operation before being shipped to customers. This ensures that every product meets the highest standards of performance, durability, and reliability. Mercury Marine's dedication to providing exceptional customer service is also evident in its extensive dealer network and after-sales support. With over 10,000 authorized dealers worldwide, customers can access expert advice on selecting the right products for their boating needs as well as prompt maintenance and repair services. In recent years, Mercury Marine has also taken significant steps towards sustainability by investing in eco-friendly technologies such as advanced filtration systems for cleaner water emissions from its manufacturing plants. The company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable boating practices through education initiatives like "Clean Boater" – an online program designed to educate boaters about environmentally friendly habits while on the water. Furthermore, Mercury Marine supports various marine conservation efforts globally by partnering with organizations such as Ocean Conservancy, which focuses on preserving ocean health and wildlife habitats. The company also sponsors several local clean-up events around the world to promote environmental awareness among boaters. Today, Mercury Marine continues its legacy of innovation with a diverse range of products including outboard motors (ranging from 2.5hp-600hp), sterndrives (200-430 hp), propulsion systems for inflatable boats and pontoon boats, diesel engines for commercial vessels and high-performance racing engines. The brand's reputation for excellence has earned it numerous industry accolades including multiple Boating Industry Innovation Awards, International BoatBuilders' Exhibition & Conference Innovation Awards, National Marine Manufacturers Association Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) awards among others – further solidifying its position as an industry leader. In conclusion, Mercury Marine’s commitment to innovation coupled with its focus on sustainability have enabled it not only to stay ahead in the highly competitive marine industry but also contribute positively towards the environment. With a strong legacy and a promising future, Mercury Marine continues to be the go-to brand for boaters worldwide, providing them with exceptional products and services that enhance their boating experience.

Mercury Marine is a global leader in the manufacturing of marine propulsion systems, including outboard engines, sterndrives, and inboard motors. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. However, it wasn't until 1946 that Mercury Marine established its presence in Davenport, Iowa. In the post-World War II era, there was a growing demand for recreational boating and Mercury Marine saw an opportunity to expand their operations. In 1946 they purchased a former farm implement factory on the banks of the Mississippi River in Davenport and began producing outboard engines. The Davenport facility quickly became one of Mercury's largest manufacturing plants with over 1 million square feet of production space. By the early 1950s, Mercury had introduced several new models of outboard engines at this location including the popular Mark series which featured sleek designs and increased horsepower capabilities. Throughout the decades, Mercury continued to innovate and expand their product line at their Davenport plant. In addition to outboard engines, they also started producing sterndrive units (also known as "inboards") for larger boats in the late 1950s. In the early 1960s, Mercury acquired another boat motor manufacturer based in Quincy, Illinois called Kiekaefer Aeromarine Corporation. This acquisition allowed them to diversify into other areas such as snowmobiles and personal watercraft. Despite facing some financial challenges during economic downturns throughout its history, Mercury has remained committed to its operations in Davenport. In fact,in recent years they have invested millions of dollars into modernizing and expanding their facilities there. Today,the Davenport plant employs over 2,000 people who are involved not only with production but also research & development activities for new products.Their dedication has helped make Mercury Marine one of Iowa's top employers,and has been recognized by numerous awards for their contributions to the local community. Mercury Marine's presence in Davenport has not only had a significant impact on the local economy but also on the boating industry as a whole. Their commitment to innovation and quality has solidified their position as a global leader in marine propulsion systems, with products that are trusted by recreational boaters and professional fishermen alike. In addition to manufacturing, Mercury Marine also maintains a strong connection with the Davenport community through various philanthropic initiatives. They have partnered with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity and Junior Achievement of the Heartland to support affordable housing and education programs for youth. Overall, Mercury Marine's history in Davenport is one of growth, innovation, and dedication. From its humble beginnings in an old farm implement factory to becoming a major player in the global marine industry, Mercury continues to be an integral part of Davenport's identity and economic success.

Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, Davenport is a charming city in eastern Iowa that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. It is the largest of the Quad Cities – a group of four cities that straddle both sides of the river and also includes Bettendorf, Rock Island, and Moline. The first settlement in what is now Davenport was established by Antoine LeClaire in 1836 when he built his cabin on top of what would become known as "the Rock." The area was originally named Fort Armstrong after Major George Davenport who had been sent to build a military post there. However, with time it came to be known as Davenport after its founder. One of the defining features of Davenport is its location on the Mississippi River which has played an important role in shaping its history and development. In fact, it was once hailed as one of America's greatest river ports due to its strategic location for steamboat traffic. Today, visitors can still take boat rides along the river or stroll along its scenic waterfront. Downtown Davenport boasts numerous historic buildings including those from Victorian-era such as Putnam Museum & Science Center and Figge Art Museum. Visitors can learn about local history at these museums while also admiring their stunning architecture. But beyond its historical significance, Davenport also offers plenty for art lovers with various galleries showcasing works by local artists. One such place is Bucktown Center for Arts which houses studios for over 20 artists working across different mediums ranging from painting to jewelry making. For nature enthusiasts looking to escape into greenery within city limits should visit Vander Veer Botanical Park – a tranquil oasis featuring formal gardens and walking trails lined with beautiful plants and flowers. Similarly, Credit Island Park located south-western end provides excellent opportunities for fishing or simply enjoying views over Mississippi River. With strong German heritage dating back centuries ago when many immigrants settled here, Davenport boasts a lively food scene. The city has an abundance of restaurants and cafes serving up delicious dishes ranging from classic American comfort foods to international cuisines. The downtown area is also home to several entertainment venues including Adler Theatre and River Music Experience – both hosting live music performances throughout the year. And for sports fans, there's no shortage of options either with minor league baseball team Quad Cities River Bandits calling Davenport their home. In addition to its cultural offerings, Davenport is also known for its strong economy driven by industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education. It is home to some major companies like John Deere which have a significant presence in the region. But perhaps what truly sets Davenport apart from other cities is its community spirit and sense of camaraderie among residents. This can be seen through various events held throughout the year that bring people together such as the annual Bix 7 road race or Beaux Arts Fair – one of Iowa's largest outdoor art fairs. Overall, it's safe to say that Davenport has something for everyone – whether you're a history buff or an adventure seeker looking for outdoor activities or simply seeking a warm Midwest welcome from friendly locals. With its rich heritage, diverse culture, and thriving economy, this riverfront city continues to charm visitors year after year.

Mercury Marine is a well-known American company that specializes in the manufacture of outboard motors, marine engines, and related products. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has become one of the leading producers of marine propulsion systems worldwide. The Early Years: Carl Kiekhaefer was an engineer who had previously worked for Evinrude Outboard Motors. In 1939, he started his own business in Cedarburg, Wisconsin with just $2,500 and a dream to revolutionize the world of boating. He began by producing lightweight two-cylinder outboard motors with aluminum lower units which were more powerful than any other motor on the market at that time. This innovation set Mercury Marine apart from its competitors and put them on track to becoming an industry leader. Innovation and Expansion: In the following years, Mercury continued to innovate and expand its product line. In 1940 they introduced their first four-cylinder engine which quickly became popular among boat manufacturers due to its compact design and high power output. By 1947 they had expanded their production facility three times over as demand for their products grew rapidly. In 1957 Mercury unveiled what would become their most iconic engine – the Mark-75 “Super Hurricane” V6 outboard motor. It featured revolutionary technology such as electronic ignition (a first for outboards), automatic pressure lubrication system, underwater exhausts system (eliminating smoke), full gearshift controls (instead of levers) - all while weighing nearly half as much as competitor’s engines. This groundbreaking technology made it possible for boats to travel faster than ever before without sacrificing performance or reliability. Expansion into New Markets: As Mercury continued to grow in popularity within North America, they looked towards expanding globally. In 1961 they opened their first international office in Belgium followed by another office in Australia a year later. This allowed them to tap into new markets and increase their global presence. In the 1970s, Mercury expanded its product line to include stern drive engines which were used in larger boats. This move proved to be successful as they became a major player in this market segment and even started supplying engines for powerboat racing teams. Mercury Today: Today, Mercury Marine is still headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and has grown to become a multi-billion dollar company with over 6,000 employees worldwide. They have manufacturing facilities in the United States, Mexico, Belgium, and China. In addition to outboard motors and stern drives, they also produce propellers, inflatable boats, trolling motors and other marine accessories. Mercury Marine has continued to innovate throughout its history by introducing technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems for outboards (1992), digital throttle & shift controls (2004) and joystick piloting system (2013). These advancements have made boating easier and more enjoyable for consumers. Their commitment to innovation extends beyond just products – Mercury also prioritizes sustainability through initiatives like their “Clean Boater Program” which aims to reduce water pollution caused by recreational boaters. They are also actively involved in conservation efforts through partnerships with organizations such as The Nature Conservancy. Conclusion: From humble beginnings with just one man’s vision of revolutionizing the boating industry, Mercury Marine has become a global leader known for their high-quality products and innovative technologies. Their dedication to excellence continues today as they strive towards improving the boating experience while maintaining environmental responsibility. With almost 80 years of history behind them, it's clear that Mercury Marine will continue to shape the future of boating for generations to come.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems and engines, known for its innovative designs and high-quality products. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who had a passion for engineering and a vision to create the best marine engine in the world. Initially named "Kiekhaefer Corporation," the company started off producing outboard motors that were used primarily for racing. However, after World War II ended and recreational boating became increasingly popular, Mercury Marine shifted its focus to developing reliable and efficient outboard engines for pleasure boaters. In 1945, the company introduced its first production model called the "Mercury KD-3" which quickly gained popularity among recreational boaters due to its lightweight design and exceptional performance. This success led to an expansion of their product line with larger horsepower models being introduced over the years. In addition to outboard motors, Mercury began manufacturing sterndrive units (also known as inboard/outboards) in 1961 with their iconic MerCruiser brand. These versatile units combine both an inboard engine with an outdrive unit providing greater power while still maintaining maneuverability. Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Mercury continued to innovate with new advancements such as electric starting systems, remote controls, power tilt-and-trim features – all of which helped make boating easier for consumers. In 1966 they also launched one of their most successful models -the “Tower of Power” inline-six cylinder two-stroke engine -which set industry standards for power-to-weight ratios at that time. By this point Mercury had become synonymous with reliability and performance on waterways worldwide. In fact it was during this era that many competitive racers switched from other brands over to Mercury's high-performing engines including legendary Formula One racecar driver Bruce McLaren who used them exclusively on his boats during races like Miami-Nassau and the Bahamas 500. In the late 1970s, Mercury expanded its operations by acquiring other boat manufacturers such as Sea Ray and Boston Whaler. This allowed them to offer a complete package of boats and engines for their customers. In 1985, Mercury Marine was acquired by Brunswick Corporation, a leading manufacturer in the marine industry. Under this new ownership, Mercury continued to grow and innovate, introducing new technologies such as direct fuel injection and four-stroke outboard engines in addition to expanding its product line with sterndrive units designed specifically for high-performance boating. Today, Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin and has manufacturing facilities around the world including Australia, Canada, Mexico and China. They continue to be a leader in marine propulsion technology with over 7 million engines produced since their inception. In recent years, environmental concerns have become increasingly important in the boating industry. In response to this trend, Mercury has invested heavily into research and development of environmentally friendly products such as their Verado Pro FourStroke engine which meets strict emissions standards while also providing exceptional performance on water. As one of the most recognized brands in the boating industry worldwide with over $3 billion dollars worth of sales annually -Mercury Marine continues to push boundaries when it comes designing reliable products that keep recreational boaters enjoying life on waterways all across globe.

Located in the heart of the Midwest, Davenport, Iowa is a city steeped in rich history and culture. It was founded on May 14th, 1836 by Antoine LeClaire and named after Colonel George Davenport, a wealthy fur trader who played a significant role in the early development of the city. Over the years, Davenport has evolved from a small trading post to one of the largest cities in Iowa and an important hub for commerce and industry. Early History Before European settlement, Davenport was inhabited by Native American tribes such as Sauk and Meskwaki. The area served as an important trading route along the Mississippi River due to its strategic location at the confluence of three major waterways - Mississippi River, Rock River, and Wapsipinicon River. In 1803, during President Thomas Jefferson's administration, most of present-day Iowa became part of the Louisiana Purchase from France. This opened up new opportunities for settlers looking for land to farm or trade upon. In 1816-1819 Fort Armstrong was built near present-day Rock Island (across from modern-day downtown Davenport) to protect settlers against Native American attacks. The City's Founding Antoine LeClaire arrived in this area after working as an interpreter for General Winfield Scott during negotiations with Sauk leaders Black Hawk (Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiak) over disputed lands around Illinois' Rock Island settlements that resulted in removals westward into what later became Oklahoma Indian Territory. LeClaire saw potential in this land at "the head" or "headland" located where both sides met between two rivers which came together just north-westwards toward Keokuk Point above current Lock & Dam No#15; he bought vast tracts then plotted his town site naming it 'Davenports Landing.' The following year he married Appanoose (Wa-pa-nu-sa) a granddaughter of Black Hawk and their union contributed greatly to future peace between Sauk and European settlers. In 1836, LeClaire partnered with Colonel George Davenport to develop the town site. They both had great visions for the city, and together they planned out streets, parks, and public buildings. On May 14th, 1836, Davenport was officially incorporated as a city. Growth and Development The early years of Davenport saw rapid growth due to its location on the Mississippi River. The river served as a vital transportation route for goods and people coming in from different parts of the country. By 1850, Davenport's population had grown to over 10,000 residents. During this time period, many industries emerged in Davenport such as lumber mills, flour mills, foundries,and breweries. These industries provided employment opportunities for immigrants arriving in the city from Europe. Irish immigrants played a significant role in building railroads that connected Iowa with other states thereby stimulating trade & commerce. Economic Growth By late-19th century industrialists like John Deere (Deere & Company) based here started manufacturing plows that revolutionized agriculture making it possible for farmers across America then beyond by exporting into Canada & Europe not only providing more food but fueling demand creating an economic boom benefiting all sorts of business big or small yet local too. The turn of the century also brought about advancements in technology such as electricity which led to further development in manufacturing industries like ironworks and textile factories. This resulted in increased job opportunities attracting more people to move into Davenport. Downtown Development As industry continued to thrive in Davenport during the early 20th century so did downtown development; brick roads were laid down besides streetcars connecting neighborhoods while grand department stores sprang up along Main Street including Harned Von Maur later renamed Petersen-Harned-Von Maur then Petersen-Harned-von Maur; it became Von Maur in 1989 to this date. In the 1920s, Davenport also saw a rise in the construction of beautiful art-deco style buildings such as Hotel Blackhawk and Adler Theatre. These developments not only added to the city's architectural beauty but also contributed to its growing tourism industry. Natural Disasters Unfortunately, Davenport has faced several natural disasters throughout its history. In 1856, a severe flood destroyed much of downtown and led to significant improvements being made to the city's levee system. The Great Flood of 1965 was another devastating event that caused widespread damage and displacement for many residents. Despite these challenges, Davenport persevered and continued to grow into a thriving community with strong resilience and determination. Modern-Day Davenport Today, Davenport is a bustling city with over 100,000 residents. It continues to be an important commercial center for Iowa with major industries including healthcare, manufacturing, education, transportation,and logistics. The historic downtown area has been revitalized in recent years with new restaurants,boutiques,and entertainment venues attracting visitors from all over. The city also boasts several cultural attractions such as Figge Art Museum which houses collections from local artists as well as works by renowned masters like Grant Wood. Other popular destinations include Putnam Museum & Science Center where visitors can learn about natural history through interactive exhibits and activities. Davenport is also known for its annual events such as Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival honoring one of America's most influential jazz musicians who grew up in the city. The Mississippi Valley Fair is another popular event held every year since 1915 showcasing agriculture,family-friendly activities,and live music performances. Conclusion From humble beginnings as a trading post on the banks of Mississippi River,Davenport has transformed into a vibrant metropolis rich in culture,economy,& history. Its growth and development over the years have been fueled by its strategic location, innovative industries,and resilient community. As we look to the future, Davenport continues to evolve while preserving its unique character and charm. The city's rich history serves as a reminder of its journey and inspires us to continue building upon its legacy for generations to come.

Davenport, Iowa is a city located in Scott County, Iowa along the Mississippi River. It was founded in 1836 by Antoine LeClaire and named after Colonel George Davenport, a soldier who served during the War of 1812 and established an American trading post in the area. The city quickly became a center for commerce and transportation due to its prime location on the river. By 1856, Davenport had become one of the largest cities in Iowa with a population of over 11,000 people. The economy grew as industries such as lumber mills, flour mills, and farm machinery factories were established. During the Civil War, Davenport played an important role as a major supply depot for Union troops. The government built several facilities in town including Camp McClellan (later renamed Rock Island Arsenal) which served as a training ground for soldiers. In the late 19th century, Davenport experienced rapid growth and development thanks to advancements in transportation technology such as railroads and steamboats. The first railroad bridge across the Mississippi was completed here in 1856 which further solidified its position as an important hub for trade and commerce. As industry continued to thrive in Davenport, so did its cultural scene. In 1875, German immigrants founded Schuetzen Park - now known as Fejervary Park - which became a popular spot for social gatherings and events. The Figge Art Museum was also established during this time period showcasing local art collections from wealthy citizens. However, like many other cities at that time period,Davenport faced challenges such as natural disasters including multiple floods that devastated parts of downtown throughout history. By early-20th century,Davenport saw another boom when it attracted new industries like brewing companies,Bix Beiderbecke,the famous jazz musician who called it home,and businesses‘ headquarters’. This led to extensive urban redevelopment projects,in order to make way for big modern buildings and skyscrapers. Today, Davenport is a thriving city with a diverse economy including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism. It has also become known for its vibrant arts scene with annual festivals such as the Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival and the River Music Experience’s Blues Fest. The city continues to preserve its rich history through museums like the German American Heritage Center, Putnam Museum of History and Natural Science,and iconic landmarks like The Adler Theatre that host a variety of cultural events. Its proximity to the Mississippi River also makes it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as boating,fishing,hiking at parks along riverfront trails. Davenport's strong sense of community can be seen through initiatives like Downtown Davenport Partnership which works towards revitalizing downtown area,and organizations like Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities that strive to improve the quality of life in the city by building affordable housing. From humble beginnings as a trading post on the banks of Mississippi,Davenport has evolved into an important economic center in Iowa while retaining its charm as a historic riverside town. As it continues to grow and adapt to changing times,it remains deeply connected to its past,preserving its heritage while embracing progress.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems, based in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. However, the roots of this global company can be traced back to Davenport, Iowa. The history of Mercury Marine in Davenport began in 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Co. The company was relocated to Cedarburg, Wisconsin and renamed to “Kiekhaefer Corporation”. In the early years, the company focused on producing magnetic separators and outboard motors for industrial use. In 1946, Kiekhaefer acquired an outboard motor design from Evinrude Motors and entered the recreational boating market under the brand name “Mercury” – inspired by the Roman god known for speed. This move marked a significant turning point for Mercury Marine as it shifted its focus towards producing high-performance marine engines. As demand for their products grew rapidly over the next few years, Kiekhaefer Corporation expanded its operations by opening multiple new facilities across North America. One such facility was established in Davenport in 1952. At that time, Davenport’s location on Mississippi River made it ideal for shipping goods across the country via waterways. Initially operating out of a small factory located at West Second Street with only seven employees, Mercury Marine soon became one of Davenport’s largest employers with over 600 workers by 1955. The success of their production line enabled them to expand into bigger facilities along Pershing Avenue and Marquette Street throughout the ‘50s and ‘60s. During these decades, Mercury Marine continued to innovate and introduce new technologies like electric starting systems and electronic ignition systems that improved performance while reducing emissions from their engines – making them more environmentally friendly than any other competitor at that time. In addition to innovation within product development processes; Mercury also implemented cutting-edge management techniques such as statistical process control (SPC) and total quality management (TQM). These practices helped the company to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and increase customer satisfaction. The ‘70s were a period of significant growth for Mercury Marine in Davenport as they expanded their product line to include stern drives, inboard engines, and jet boats. This expansion led to an increase in production capacity and employment at the Davenport facilities. However, like any other business venture, Mercury Marine also faced challenges during its time in Davenport. In 1979, Kiekhaefer Corporation was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in recreational boating products. The acquisition brought about changes in leadership style and strategies that affected the operations of Mercury Marine. As a result, many employees left the company or were laid off during this transition period. Despite these challenges, Mercury Marine continued to thrive under new ownership with innovations such as four-stroke outboard motors introduced in 2004 – setting new benchmarks for fuel efficiency while complying with strict environmental regulations. In recent years, there have been some changes within Mercury’s operations in Davenport due to consolidation efforts by Brunswick Corporation. However, it remains an important location for research and development activities as well as manufacturing components for various marine propulsion systems produced by the company. Today, after over eight decades since its establishment; Mercury Marine is recognized globally as one of the most trusted brands among boaters worldwide - known for producing high-quality marine engines that deliver superior performance on waterways while being environmentally responsible. The impact of Mercury’s presence can still be felt throughout Davenport's community even though its workforce has reduced significantly compared to previous years. Many long-time residents fondly remember working at Mercury or having family members who were employed there during its peak years. The company’s legacy continues through those who still reside here today - often sharing stories about how they worked together creating something extraordinary that changed how people experience life on water forever. In conclusion, the history of Mercury Marine in Davenport is a testament to the company's resilience and commitment to innovation. From its humble beginnings in a small factory with only seven employees, it has grown into a global leader in marine propulsion systems. Through its presence in Davenport, Mercury Marine has not only contributed to the economic growth of the city but also shaped its identity as a hub for manufacturing and innovation. The company’s legacy lives on through its technological advancements and dedication to environmental sustainability – setting an example for other businesses in the industry. As we look towards the future, we can expect even more exciting developments from Mercury Marine as they continue their mission to make boating experiences safer, more efficient and enjoyable for all. And although there have been changes over time, one thing remains constant – that is Mercury Marine’s strong connection to Davenport, Iowa - where it all began.

Mercury Marine is a well-known American company that specializes in the production of outboard motors, boat engines, and various marine accessories. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has become one of the leading manufacturers of marine propulsion systems in the world. The company was initially known as Kiekhaefer Corporation and started off by producing racing engines for boats. However, it wasn't until 1940 when they introduced their first outboard motor, called "the Lightning", that they began to gain recognition. This motor proved to be highly successful and paved the way for future innovations and advancements in marine technology. Over the years, Mercury Marine continued to expand its product line and develop new technologies. In 1957, they introduced their first four-cylinder engine which revolutionized boating by providing more power and speed than ever before. In addition to this, Mercury also became one of the first companies to offer remote steering controls for their outboard motors. In 1961, Mercury Marine was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in recreational products – which allowed them access to greater resources for research and development. This led to even more breakthroughs such as the introduction of stern drives (inboard/outboard motors) in 1962 and electronic fuel injection systems in 1984. Today, Mercury Marine offers a wide range of products including outboard motors ranging from 2.5 horsepower up to an impressive 400 horsepower. They also produce sterndrives with power options up to 520 horsepower as well as propellers, control systems, gauges and other accessories necessary for boating enthusiasts. One key factor that sets Mercury Marine apart from its competitors is its commitment towards innovation and continuous improvement. The company invests heavily into research & development every year with an aim towards developing cutting-edge technology that makes boating safer, easier and more enjoyable. For example; their new VesselView Mobile technology allows boat owners to monitor their engine's performance, fuel consumption and even receive maintenance alerts right on their smartphones. This not only enhances the boating experience but also helps in prolonging the life of the engine. In addition to this, Mercury Marine has also been actively working towards reducing its environmental footprint by developing more eco-friendly engines with lower emissions. In fact, they were one of the first companies to introduce four-stroke outboard motors which are known for their fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Apart from being an industry leader in terms of innovation, Mercury Marine also prides itself on its exceptional customer service. The company offers a wide network of dealerships and service centers across the globe to ensure that customers have access to support whenever needed. With over 10,000 authorized dealers worldwide, it is no surprise that Mercury Marine has a strong presence in almost every country where boating is popular. Moreover, Mercury Marine takes pride in being heavily involved with various marine conservation efforts as well as supporting local communities through charitable initiatives. They understand the importance of preserving our oceans and waterways for future generations and have taken several steps towards promoting sustainable boating practices. In conclusion, Mercury Marine stands as a testament to American ingenuity and commitment towards excellence. For over 80 years they have been at the forefront of marine propulsion technology with a mission to provide reliable products that enhance people's love for boating. With continuous advancements and dedication towards sustainability, it is safe to say that we can expect great things from this company in the future.