Crestliner is a renowned boat manufacturer that has been in operation for over 70 years. The company has its roots deeply embedded in the city of Dubuque, Iowa – where it all began. This paper will delve into the rich history of Crestliner in Dubuque and how it has grown to become one of the leading manufacturers of boats in the United States. The story of Crestliner begins back in 1946 when seven local businessmen from Dubuque came together with a vision to create high-quality aluminum boats. These visionary men were Eugene “Fritz” Drees, Ralph Wennekamp, Dr. George Niblo Jr., Clarence O’Connor, Francis Bockenstedt, Gene Kirschbaum and Joe Lemker. They pooled their resources and expertise to establish Aluminum Fabricators Inc., which would later be renamed as Crestliner Boats Inc. Located on Dodge Street in Dubuque’s north end industrial district, the first factory was modest but had enough space for production and storage of materials needed for manufacturing boats. With only three employees at startup - Fritz Drees as President; Ralph Wennekamp as Vice President; and Joe Lemker as Secretary-Treasurer - they set out to produce their first boat model – an all-welded aluminum boat called “the Viking”. It was an instant hit among fishermen who appreciated its durability and functionality. One year after launching “the Viking”, Crestliner moved into a bigger facility on Kerper Boulevard which allowed them to increase production capacity due to growing demand for their products. By 1950, they expanded further by acquiring another building on West Locust Street which became exclusively dedicated to producing hulls while assembly remained at Kerper Boulevard. In 1952, Crestliner made yet another significant move by purchasing land along Mississippi River’s west bank near Lock & Dam No.11 - now known as Schmitt Marine Technology Center. The new factory was equipped with state-of-the-art machinery, and its location allowed the company to perform on-water testing of their boats – a critical factor in ensuring quality assurance. The 1950s were an era of growth for Crestliner, both in sales and product development. They introduced a variety of boat styles including runabouts, cruisers, canoes and later on - pontoon boats. The company also started using fiberglass as an alternative material to aluminum which opened up more opportunities for innovation and design. In 1963, Crestliner merged with Northern Manufacturing Company – another Dubuque-based boat manufacturer - forming Northern Industries Inc. This merger propelled Crestliner into becoming one of the largest manufacturers in the boating industry by combining resources and expertise from both companies. The following decades saw Crestliner experiencing significant growth through the acquisition of other well-known brands such as Lowe Boats (1985) and Sea Nymph Boats (1994). These acquisitions enabled Crestliner to diversify its product line while maintaining high standards in quality. In 2005, Brunswick Corporation acquired Northern Industries Inc., making it part of Mercury Marine group - a global leader in marine propulsion systems based out of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. With this acquisition came further investment into research & development resulting in innovative designs that have set new industry standards. Today, Crestliner continues to operate out of its manufacturing facility at Schmitt Marine Technology Center where they produce over sixty models across seven different series ranging from fishing boats to pontoons – all designed with precision craftsmanship that has become synonymous with the brand name. Their products are sold throughout North America via independent dealerships who have exclusive rights to sell their boats within their respective regions. Crestliner’s success is deeply rooted not only in its rich history but also because it has remained true to its core values; providing fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts alike with reliable watercraft that meets their needs without compromising on quality. Crestliner’s strong ties to Dubuque have also played a significant role in its success – with the city providing an ideal location for testing and manufacturing boats. In conclusion, Crestliner’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a leading manufacturer of boats is a testament to the hard work, dedication and vision of its founders. The company has solidified its standing in the industry through constant innovation, strategic partnerships and unwavering commitment to producing high-quality watercraft. As it continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain - Crestliner will always be deeply rooted in Dubuque's history as a symbol of American craftsmanship at its finest.

Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, with a history that spans over 70 years. Founded in Little Falls, Minnesota in 1946 by two brothers, David and Paul Gielau, Crestliner has become one of the most respected names in aluminum boat manufacturing. The story of Crestliner began when the Gielau brothers were inspired to build their own boat after spending countless hours fishing on local lakes. They recognized the need for durable and reliable boats that could withstand harsh weather conditions and rough waters. With this vision in mind, they started building boats using only high-quality materials and innovative designs. Their first boat was named "The Muskie," which quickly gained popularity among anglers due to its superior construction and performance. The success of this model led them to expand their product line and introduce new models such as "The Pike" and "The Bass." In 1953, Crestliner moved its operations from Little Falls to Little Rock Lake where it still stands today. This move allowed them to increase production capacity and improve efficiency while maintaining their commitment to quality craftsmanship. Throughout the decades, Crestliner has continued to innovate with new technologies such as welded seams instead of rivets for stronger hulls, advanced hull design for better stability and speed, as well as incorporating features like Live-Well systems for fishermen. One significant milestone for Crestliner came in 1960 when they introduced their first all-welded aluminum boat known as "Aluminum Wonder." This revolutionary design changed the landscape of aluminum boat manufacturing forever by providing unmatched durability at an affordable price point. Another notable achievement was when Crestliner joined forces with Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in recreational marine products –in 2005. This partnership brought together two companies with strong legacies built upon innovation and customer satisfaction. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner continues to thrive while staying true to its founding principles. Today,Crestliners are known for their exceptional craftsmanship, durability, and performance. Their boats cater to a wide range of boating enthusiasts from avid fishermen to family cruisers. Each model is designed with meticulous attention to detail and undergoes rigorous testing before it reaches the hands of customers. Crestliner offers a diverse lineup of boats that includes both freshwater and saltwater models in various sizes and configurations. From small utility boats for fishing on calm lakes to larger offshore models built for rough seas, Crestliner has something for every boater. One standout feature of Crestliner's boats is their use of advanced hull designs. These include the unique "Reverse Chine" design that provides better stability and control even at high speeds, as well as the variable degree deadrise hulls that offer smoother rides in choppy waters. In addition to superior construction and design, Crestliner also prioritizes customer satisfaction by providing excellent customer service. They have an extensive network of dealers located across North America who are trained to provide comprehensive support services such as maintenance, repairs, and parts replacement. Furthermore,Crestliner takes pride in its commitment to environmental sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices into their manufacturing processes. This includes using recycled aluminum materials whenever possible and implementing efficient production methods that minimize waste. In conclusion,Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings back in 1946. Today,it is recognized globally as one of the leading manufacturers of quality aluminum boats – thanks to its dedication towards innovation,durability,and customer satisfaction.With over seven decades under its belt,the brand continues to evolve while staying true to its core values,making it a trusted choice among boaters worldwide.

Crestliner is a well-known and respected boat manufacturer that has been in operation for over 75 years. The company was founded in 1946 by a group of Dubuque businessmen who saw the potential for building high-quality aluminum boats. Their vision was to create strong, durable, and functional boats that could withstand the rugged waters of the Upper Mississippi River. The founders of Crestliner chose Dubuque, Iowa as their headquarters due to its strategic location on the banks of the Mississippi River. This allowed them easy access to raw materials and transportation routes, making it an ideal spot for manufacturing boats. In its early years, Crestliner focused primarily on producing small fishing boats made from lightweight aluminum. However, with time and increasing demand from customers, they expanded their product line to include larger recreational vessels such as cruisers and pontoons. Throughout the decades, Crestliner's commitment to quality craftsmanship has remained unchanged. They have continued to innovate and improve their designs using cutting-edge technology while staying true to their roots of handcrafted workmanship. In 1959, Crestliner became part of Brunswick Corporation - one of the world's largest marine companies. This partnership brought significant resources and expertise into Crestliner’s operations, allowing them to continue growing while maintaining their reputation for excellence. Today, Crestliner operates out of a state-of-the-art facility in Dubuque spanning over 200 acres along John Deere Road. The company employs hundreds of skilled workers who are dedicated to creating some of the finest aluminum boats on the market. In addition to being known for its exceptional boats and dedication to quality production processes, Crestliner also prides itself on being an environmentally responsible company. They have implemented sustainable practices throughout all aspects of production – from sourcing materials ethically and responsibly managing waste disposal – all with minimal impact on local ecosystems. Over the past several decades, Crestliner has received numerous awards recognizing both its products' quality and its commitment to environmental sustainability. This includes the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year award in 2010 and being named a "Green Master" business by the Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council. In conclusion, Crestliner has a rich history in Dubuque, Iowa, that spans over seven decades. From its humble beginnings as a small fishing boat company to becoming one of the leading manufacturers of aluminum boats in the world, Crestliner's legacy is deeply rooted in Dubuque’s community and continues to thrive today.

Dubuque, Iowa is a small city located in the northeastern part of the state along the Mississippi River. It is the oldest city in Iowa and has a rich history dating back to its early days as a fur trading post. Dubuque's unique location, natural beauty, and strong community have made it a popular destination for tourists and a great place to call home. History: The first European settler in Dubuque was Julien Dubuque, who arrived in 1785 and established trade with Native American tribes. In 1803, he negotiated with local Native Americans for lead mining rights on their land. This led to increased settlement and economic growth in the area. In 1833, Dubuque became an official town when John Dowling purchased land from Julien Dubuque’s heirs and laid out streets and lots. The town quickly grew into an important commercial center due to its strategic location on the Mississippi River. By the mid-19th century, Dubuque had become one of Iowa's largest cities thanks to its thriving industries including lead mining, lumber mills, breweries, meatpacking plants, foundries,and boat building yards. In addition to being an industrial hub, Dubuque also played an important role during World War II as it was home to several military training camps that prepared soldiers for combat overseas. Today: After experiencing periods of decline throughout much of the 20th century due to changes in industry and transportation methods,the city has undergone significant revitalization efforts since the late 1980s.Thanks to these efforts,Dubuque has once again become a vibrant cultural hub with many opportunities for recreation,dining,and entertainment. One notable aspect of modern-dayDububequethat sets it apart from other Midwestern cities is its impressive collection of historic architecture.The city boasts over 1,o00 buildings listed onthe National Registerof Historic Places,ranging from grand mansions built by early industrialists to charming Victorian homes and commercial buildings. Another defining feature of Dubuque is its natural beauty. The city is situated along the mighty Mississippi River, providing residents with stunning views and opportunities for water activities such as boating,fishing,and kayaking. In addition,the surrounding bluffs offer scenic hiking trails and overlooks that showcase the area's picturesque landscape. Attractions: Dubuque offers a variety of attractions that draw in both tourists and locals alike. One popular destination is the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, which focuses on educating visitors about the history, ecology, and culture of America's great river. The city also has several cultural institutions such as the Dubuque Museum of Art,the Mathias Ham House Historic Site,and the Grand Opera House,which host various exhibits, performances,and events throughout the year. For those interested in outdoor activities,Dubuque has a multitude of parks,golf courses,and recreational areas including Swiss Valley Nature Center,Eagle Point Park,Crystal Lake Cave,and Heritage Trail System.These spaces allow residents to enjoy nature while staying active and healthy. Economy: Dubuque's economy has diversified significantly since its early days as an industrial powerhouse.Today,the city boasts a strong healthcare sector with multiple hospitals,specialty clinics,and senior care facilities dottingthe area.Another major industry in Dubuqueis education thanks to prestigious colleges such as Loras Collegeand Clarke University located within its borders.Additionally,tourism plays a vital roleinthe local economyas thousands are drawn each year to experience all that Dubquuehas to offer Community: One aspect that truly sets Dubuque apart from other cities is its strong senseof community.The city prides itself on being welcoming,inclusiveand supportive.Dubquue’s citizens are known for their Midwestern hospitality,powerful work ethic,civic pride,a passion for volunteerism.It isn't uncommonto see individuals volunteering their time and talents to better the community in some way,whether it be through local organizations or events. Furthermore,Dubuque has a diverse population with a mix of different cultures that have contributed to its rich heritage and unique character.This diversity is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year,including the annual Multicultural Festival which showcases different ethnic cuisines,dances,and traditions. Conclusion: Dubuque,Iowa is a hidden gem in the Midwest.Its charming historic architecture,natural beauty,cultural offerings,strong economy,and close-knit community make it an ideal place for both visitorsand residents alike. With continued efforts towards revitalization,the city's future looks bright as it continues to attract new businesses,educational institutions,and tourists while maintaining its small-town charm. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or considering relocating,Dubuque offers something special for everyone.

Crestliner is a well-known name in the boating industry, with a history that dates back to over 70 years. The company's story begins in Little Falls, Minnesota where it was founded by two brothers, Julius and James Trollan in 1946. What started as a small manufacturing business has now evolved into one of the most respected and successful boat brands in the world. The Trollan brothers were passionate about fishing and spent much of their time on the water. They had been tinkering with boats for many years before finally deciding to turn their hobby into a business. In 1945, they built their first aluminum boat which caught the attention of local fishermen due to its durability and lightweight design. Encouraged by this positive response, they decided to start Crestliner Boats Inc. in Little Falls the following year. Their goal was to manufacture high-quality boats that would meet the needs of avid anglers like themselves. During Crestliner's early days, all boats were made from wood or canvas-covered wood frames. However, Julius had an idea that changed everything – he suggested building boats using aluminum instead of wood. This was quite revolutionary at the time as most people believed aluminum wasn't strong enough for boat construction. But Julius proved them wrong by designing an innovative method for welding aluminum sheets together without any rivets or bolts – making it even stronger than traditional wooden boats. This breakthrough technology allowed Crestliner to produce lighter yet sturdier boats that could easily glide through rough waters while also being able to withstand harsh weather conditions. With this unique selling point, Crestliner quickly gained popularity among fishermen across Minnesota who saw its potential on lakes and rivers throughout the state. In just three short years after its establishment, Crestliner became one of America's top-selling boat brands thanks to its reliable performance and affordable prices. As demand grew beyond Minnesota's borders, production expanded rapidly along with increased distribution channels nationwide – making it one of the fastest-growing boat manufacturers in the country. In 1955, Crestliner introduced its first fiberglass boats that were lighter and more affordable than other models on the market. This move further solidified its position as an industry leader and allowed them to reach a wider customer base. The '60s saw Crestliner continue to innovate with new designs and features such as spacious interiors, comfortable seating, and powerful engines. They also expanded their product line to include not just fishing boats but also runabouts and cruisers for recreational boating enthusiasts. Throughout the following decades, Crestliner continued to evolve with changing customer preferences while maintaining its core values of durability, performance, and affordability. In 1983, they became a part of Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in marine products – which helped them expand their reach even further. Today, Crestliner offers a wide range of aluminum and fiberglass boats designed for various activities such as fishing, water sports or leisure cruising. Their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility is located in Little Falls where they employ over 300 skilled workers who use advanced technology to produce high-quality boats that are sold worldwide. Crestliner's commitment to innovation has led them to win numerous awards over the years including "Best Aluminum Fishing Boat" by Boating Industry Magazine multiple times. They have also been recognized for their environmental efforts through initiatives like recycling excess material from production processes. As they celebrate over seven decades in business since Julius Trollan's groundbreaking idea back in 1946, Crestliner remains true to their roots while keeping up with modern trends and technologies. Their passion for creating durable yet affordable boats continues today under Brunswick ownership - proving that hard work combined with innovative thinking can truly stand the test of time.

Crestliner is a highly reputable and well-known brand in the boating industry. Founded in 1946 by John A. Lacey Sr., Crestliner was originally called the Aluminum Boat Company and operated out of a small garage in Little Falls, Minnesota. The company quickly gained popularity for its innovative designs and quality craftsmanship, leading to rapid expansion within its first few years of operation. In 1953, they changed their name to Crestliner Boats Inc. and moved to a larger manufacturing facility in Little Falls. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Crestliner continued to grow as demand for aluminum boats increased among recreational fishermen and hunters. The company also began producing pontoon boats during this time period. In 1964, Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which helped expand their distribution network throughout North America. OMC also invested heavily in research and development, allowing Crestliner to introduce new models with advanced features such as welded seams for added durability. In the following decades, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its product line with offerings ranging from fishing boats to pleasure craft. They also established themselves as leaders in aluminum boat construction technology through partnerships with companies like NASA that provided access to cutting-edge materials. In 2005, Brunswick Corporation acquired OMC's boat brands including Crestliner. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner has maintained its commitment to quality while incorporating modern design elements into their boats. Today, Crestliner offers an extensive lineup of fishing boats designed for both freshwater and saltwater use. Their welded hulls are known for being exceptionally durable yet lightweight, making them easy to tow behind vehicles or launch from shorelines without damaging the bottom of the boat. One key aspect that sets Crestliner apart from other manufacturers is their focus on customization options. Customers can choose from a wide range of layout configurations, colors, accessories,and other features when purchasing a new boat. In addition to their innovative designs and high-quality construction, Crestliner also prides itself on its commitment to environmental sustainability. They have implemented several initiatives to reduce their carbon footprint and promote responsible boating practices. Overall, Crestliner's long history of innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as a top brand in the boating industry. With a strong legacy behind them and a dedication to constantly improving their products, it is likely that Crestliner will continue to be a leader in the industry for years to come.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city rich in history and culture, with a vibrant past that has shaped its present. Located along the Mississippi River in northeastern Iowa, Dubuque was one of the earliest settlements in the state and played a significant role in shaping its development. The area where Dubuque now stands was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Sauk, Fox, and Meskwaki. They were attracted to the fertile land and abundant resources along the river. French explorers Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet were among the first Europeans to visit this region in 1673. In 1788, Julien Dubuque became interested in settling on these lands after befriending local Native Americans. He obtained permission from Chief Peosta of the Meskwaki tribe to mine lead ore from their territory, which he traded with European fur traders for goods. This marked a significant turning point for both Dubuque and Iowa as it brought about increased trade and settlement in this area. After Julien’s death in 1810, his son-in-law John Kinzie took over his mining operations and continued to expand them further. In 1833, President Andrew Jackson signed legislation allowing settlers to purchase land previously owned by Native American tribes through treaty negotiations. This opened up opportunities for more permanent settlement by European immigrants. As more people began moving into this region, Dubuque saw rapid growth throughout the mid-19th century due to its prime location along transportation routes like rivers and railroads. It quickly became an important commercial hub for agriculture products such as grains, pork products, lumber, millwork items like furniture or doors/windows etc., earning it the nickname “The Key City”. However,the Civil War brought about economic hardships for Dubuque due to disruption of trade routes on waterways like Mississippi River but it also provided opportunities with industrialization spurred on by war demands.Factories produced ammunition,clothing and other supplies for the Union Army, providing jobs and boosting the economy. In 1857, Dubuque was officially incorporated as a city. By this time, it had become a thriving community with a diverse population of immigrants from Germany, Ireland, Norway, and many other European countries. The influx of immigrants brought about cultural diversity to Dubuque’s social fabric. Dubuque played an important role in the women's suffrage movement during the late 19th century. In 1869, Iowa became one of the first states to grant women voting rights for school elections. This was largely due to efforts by local suffragists such as Mary Lundy who organized public debates and lectures on women's rights in Dubuque. The early 20th century saw continued growth and development in Dubuque with advancements in transportation infrastructure such as highways and bridges linking it to neighboring cities like Chicago. It also became home to several industries like brewing companies like Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery (now known as First Breweries) that helped boost its economic growth further. During World War II,Dubuque played a significant role in producing war materials for Allied forces.Its factories were converted into wartime production facilities supplying goods ranging from ammunition,tanks,and aircraft parts which proved instrumental towards winning the war.However,this period also marked racial tensions arising from African Americans migrating northwards seeking industrial jobs.In response,the city passed ordinances prohibiting housing discrimination based on race or color,a progressive step towards equality at that time. As America entered into post-war prosperity,Dubuque continued its steady growth becoming home to various educational institutions including Clarke University,Loras College,and University of Dubuque.These institutions have contributed significantly towards making Dubuque an education hub attracting students nationwide.Some notable alumni include former US Senator Tom Harkin,Hall of Fame baseball player Paul Molitor among others. Today,Dubuque is considered one of the best places to live in Iowa with a population of over 57,000 residents. It has evolved into a modern city with a balance of urban development and preservation of its historic buildings and landmarks. The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and Fenelon Place Elevator are popular tourist attractions that showcase the city's rich history. In recent years,Dubuque has also been recognized for its sustainability efforts.The city implemented various initiatives like renewable energy projects,sustainable transportation options,and green building practices,resulting in several awards from organizations such as the US Conference of Mayors and the Environmental Protection Agency. Dubuque’s past is deeply intertwined with its present. Its diverse culture,a strong sense of community,and progressive values have made it an ideal place to call home.As we look towards the future,Dubuque continues to evolve while honoring its roots,making it a unique destination for visitors and residents alike.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the easternmost part of the state along the Mississippi River. It is named after Julien Dubuque, a French Canadian fur trader who established a settlement here in 1785. Native American tribes, such as the Meskwaki and Ho-Chunk people, inhabited this area long before European settlers arrived. They were attracted to the abundant resources of fish and game provided by the river and surrounding forests. The first known European to explore this region was French explorer Louis Jolliet in 1673. In 1833, John Fitch built a trading post on land he purchased from Native Americans near present-day downtown Dubuque. This marked the beginning of permanent white settlement in the area. In subsequent years, more settlers came and established farms and businesses along with trading posts. One significant event that shaped Dubuque's history was its designation as an important steamboat port on the Mississippi River. Steamboats became crucial for transporting goods and people up and downriver. This led to rapid growth for Dubuque as it became a major center for trade between Midwestern agricultural areas and East Coast markets. By mid-19th century, Dubuque had become one of Iowa's largest cities with a diverse economy including lead mining, lumbering, brewing beer, boat building industries amongst others. Immigrants from Germany, Ireland and other countries also contributed to its growth during this time. Dubuque played an important role during both World Wars as well. During World War I (1914-1918), several manufacturing plants were converted into war-related production facilities contributing greatly to war efforts; while during World War II (1939-1945), many residents served in various branches of military service or worked at defense-related industries within city limits. The establishment of higher education institutions also played an important role in shaping Dubuque's history. In 1852, the first college in Iowa was founded here- The University of Dubuque. Since then, several other colleges and universities have been established including Loras College, Clarke University, and the Wartburg Theological Seminary. In addition to its economic growth and educational advancement, Dubuque also experienced some notable historical events. In 1857, Mathias Ham House was built which is now a National Historic Landmark; it housed one of the oldest private art collections west of Mississippi River. Furthermore, in 1886 Mark Twain gave his famous "Stormfield" speech at Washington Park in downtown Dubuque. Today, Dubuque continues to thrive as a major Midwest river port city with a diverse economy consisting of manufacturing industries like John Deere & Company (agricultural equipment), Flexsteel Industries (furniture) besides healthcare services and tourism industry contributing significantly to its economy. Over time it has evolved into an attractive place for businesses due to low costs associated with labor force wages or housing rentals when compared against larger cities nearby such as Chicago or Minneapolis/St Paul. The city's rich history can be explored through various attractions including museums like the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium showcasing local wildlife exhibits along with interactive displays on steamboats; historic buildings such as Shot Tower Inn displaying unique shot tower used for making lead shot during mid-19th century boom period; Fenelon Place Elevator - world's shortest funicular railway taking passengers up steep bluffs overlooking business district below amongst others. Overall, Dubuque's history is a testament to resilience and adaptability as it has weathered multiple economic fluctuations while preserving its cultural heritage through preservation efforts that continue today. Its location on the beautiful Mississippi River adds charm to this thriving city making it an ideal destination for visitors from all over the country seeking natural beauty combined with Midwestern hospitality.

Crestliner is a renowned boat manufacturer that has been a staple in the Dubuque, Iowa community for over seven decades. Founded in 1946 by brothers Dave and Willis Northrop, Crestliner has become an iconic brand known for its high-quality aluminum boats. The Northrop brothers started their journey by building wooden canoes and small fishing boats in Little Falls, Minnesota. However, they soon realized the potential of aluminum as a material for boat construction due to its durability and lightweight nature. In 1948, they moved their operations to Dubuque, Iowa, where they set up shop along the Mississippi River. At first, Crestliner focused on producing flat-bottomed riverboats used for commercial purposes such as fishing and transportation. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and superior craftsmanship. By the early 1950s, Crestliner had expanded its product line to include larger recreational boats such as runabouts and cruisers. In 1964, Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), one of the largest manufacturers of marine engines at the time. This partnership brought new resources and technology to Crestliner's production process while also allowing them to tap into OMC's extensive distribution network. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner continued to grow and expand its product offerings. They introduced new models with innovative features like all-welded hulls that provided increased strength and durability compared to traditional riveted designs. In addition, Crestliner began utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques such as robotic welding systems which allowed them to produce boats more efficiently without sacrificing quality. Throughout the next few decades, Crestliner became synonymous with excellence in boat design and construction both nationally and internationally. The company received numerous accolades including multiple "Boat of the Year" awards from Boating Magazine. However,y , like many other businesses in Dubuque during this time periodm changes were on horizonfor change was on the horizon for Crestliner. In 2000, OMC filed for bankruptcy, and Crestliner was acquired by Brunswick Corporation. This acquisition brought about another significant transformation in the company's history. Under Brunswick's ownership, Crestliner underwent a complete rebranding process with updated logos and new marketing strategies to appeal to a younger demographic. They also introduced new models with modern features such as integrated fish finders and Bluetooth connectivity. In 2013, Brunswick consolidated its aluminum boat manufacturing operations into one facility in New York Mills, Minnesota, resulting in the closure of Crestliner's Dubuque plant after nearly seven decades of operation. While this was a difficult transition for many employees who had been part of the company for years or even generations within their families, it allowed Crestliner to streamline its production process and continue delivering high-quality boats to customers. Today,Crestlinernow operates underthe banner ofBrunswick’s Aluminum Boat Group (ABG) along with other well-known brands such as Lund Boats and Princecraft Boats. The ABG division has continued to invest in research and development to stay at the forefront of boat design and technology while maintaining traditional craftsmanship values that have been passed down through generations. Although no longer headquartered in Dubuque,Iowa ,Crestliner continuesrto be an important partof thate communitycommunityandplays an integral rolein preservingDubuque’s rich boating heritage.hThe city still honorshonorsthe legacye fof Ccrestlinereby hosting annual events like "Boat Night" where residents can admire classic Crestliner boats from past decades. Furthermore,furthermore,the impactf tthat hCrestlinertnhas made on Dubuque goes beyond just economic contributions.tIts presence has also helped shape the city’s identityitself,tasAa hubpfor recreational boating activities,hencouragingengagining young people totgetinvolved in the sport and enjoy the beautiful Mississippi River. In conclusion, Crestliner's history in Dubuque, Iowa is one of resilience and innovation. From its humble beginnings as a small boat builder to becoming a global brand under Brunswick Corporation, Crestliner has firmly established itself as an industry leader in aluminum boats. Its legacy lives on through the continued production of high-quality boats and its impact on the community of Dubuque will forever be remembered.

Crestliner is a leading manufacturer of premium aluminum boats, known for its high-quality construction, innovative features, and exceptional performance. The company has been in the boating industry for over 75 years and has built a reputation for producing top-of-the-line vessels that cater to the needs of both recreational and professional anglers. History: The Crestliner brand was founded in 1946 by John Dretsch Jr., who started building handcrafted wooden boats under the name "Lone Star Boat Company" in Little Falls, Minnesota. In 1953, Dretsch introduced his first aluminum boat called the "Sportsman," which quickly gained popularity due to its durability and affordability. This marked the beginning of Crestliner's journey towards becoming one of the most trusted names in boating. Innovation: Over the years, Crestliner has continued to innovate and push boundaries when it comes to boat design and technology. In 1960, they were among the first companies to introduce welded hulls instead of riveted ones – a revolutionary change that significantly improved strength and durability. They also pioneered other groundbreaking advancements such as using foam floatation between hull walls for increased safety on water. In recent years, Crestliner has focused on utilizing cutting-edge technology to enhance their boats' functionality even further. For example, their SureMount Gunnel System allows users to customize their boat with accessories such as rod holders or cup holders conveniently placed wherever they need them. Their patented SST (Seamless Structural Technology) transom creates an impenetrable bond between exterior plates and interior bulkheads – resulting in stronger joints that can withstand extreme conditions. Product Range: Today's Crestliner offers a wide range of models suitable for various water activities like fishing or leisure cruising with family or friends. Their lineup includes deep-V fishing boats like Fish Hawk series designed specifically for avid fishermen featuring spacious livewells with aerators; Pro Tiller series, ideal for trolling and jigging with a tiller handle steering system; or Bass Hawk series – perfect for bass fishing enthusiasts with its spacious casting decks. All Crestliner boats come equipped with advanced features like the SureMount Gunnel System, SST transom, and ample storage space. In addition to their fishing boats, Crestliner also offers pontoons – a popular choice among boaters looking for comfort and luxury on the water. Their pontoon lineup includes models such as Rally DX featuring plush seating options and Fusion Electric Power Steering technology for smooth handling; or Fish & Cruise series designed explicitly for those who enjoy both fishing and leisure activities. Commitment to Quality: Crestliner has built its reputation on delivering high-quality products that exceed customer expectations. They achieve this by using only premium materials in their construction process while adhering to strict quality control measures at every step of production. Each boat is hand-built by skilled craftsmen in their state-of-the-art facility in Little Falls, Minnesota. The company also takes pride in providing excellent customer service through their extensive dealer network. This ensures that customers have access to support whenever they need it throughout the ownership of their Crestliner boat. Environmental Stewardship: Aside from producing exceptional boats, Crestliner is also committed to preserving the environment. The company actively participates in sustainable practices such as recycling scrap aluminum generated during production processes. They also use eco-friendly paint systems that reduce emissions into the air and waterways. Community Involvement: Crestliner understands the importance of giving back to communities where they operate. The company supports various charitable organizations such as Fishing For Life – an organization aimed at getting kids outdoors through fishing programs; Take A Vet Fishing Program – which provides opportunities for veterans suffering from PTSD or other disabilities; or Women Anglers Of Minnesota - dedicated to promoting women's participation in angling sports. Conclusion: In conclusion, Crestliner has established itself as one of the most reputable and innovative brands in the boating industry. With a rich history, commitment to quality, and dedication to customer satisfaction and environmental stewardship, it is no wonder that Crestliner continues to be a top choice for boaters worldwide. Their constant drive for innovation ensures that their boats are always equipped with the latest technology, making them versatile enough to cater to the needs of any water enthusiast. Whether you're an avid angler or just looking for a comfortable boat for leisure activities, Crestliner has a model perfect for you.