Mercury Marine has a long and storied history in Dubuque, Iowa. The company, which is known for its production of high-quality marine engines and outboard motors, has been a cornerstone of the city's economy and community for over 80 years. The story of Mercury Marine in Dubuque begins in the early 1930s when Carl Kiekhaefer, an ambitious young engineer from Wisconsin, purchased a small bankrupt engine manufacturing company called Cedarburg Manufacturing Company. Kiekhaefer had big dreams for his new business and saw potential in expanding into the marine market. He quickly moved operations to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin but soon realized that he needed more space to accommodate his growing business. In 1939, Kiekhaefer made the decision to relocate his company to Dubuque after being offered financial incentives by local businessmen who were eager to bring new industry to the area. The move proved beneficial for both parties as it brought much-needed jobs and economic growth to Dubuque while providing Mercury Marine with ample space along the Mississippi riverfront. With its new location secured, Mercury Marine began producing outboard motors at its newly built facility on Jones Street. But just as production was getting underway WWII broke out causing a shortage of materials and labor. However, this did not deter Kiekhaefer from pursuing his vision for the company. Despite challenges during wartime conditions, Mercury Marine continued to grow through innovation and adaptability. In addition to their signature outboard motors they also produced generators used by naval vessels during World War II. Following the end of WWII came a time of prosperity for both America and Mercury Marine. With increased demand for recreational boating came increased demand for reliable boat engines – something that Mercury excelled at producing. By 1950 they had become one of America’s top producers of marine propulsion systems which included everything from race boats & fishing skiffs all way to luxury cruisers. Mercury Marine’s reputation for quality and innovation continued to grow throughout the 1950s and 1960s. In 1957 they introduced their first V-6 outboard motor, which was a game changer in the industry. This marked Mercury’s transition from small engines used primarily for fishing boats to larger, more powerful motors used for various types of watercraft. The company also made significant contributions to the community during this time period with donations towards local schools and charities. They also partnered with Dubuque Community College (now known as Northeast Iowa Community College) to provide training programs for employees. In 1973, Mercury Marine underwent a major expansion project which resulted in the construction of an additional manufacturing facility on Kerper Boulevard. The company now employed over 1,200 people in Dubuque alone and had become one of the largest employers in the city. Throughout the next few decades, Mercury Marine continued its commitment to innovation by introducing new technologies such as fuel injection systems and direct fuel injection engines. They also expanded their product line beyond just boat engines, incorporating marine electronics into their offerings. However, like many companies in Dubuque at that time, Mercury Marine faced financial difficulties due to changing market conditions and increased competition from foreign manufacturers. In order to remain competitive and continue providing jobs for its employees, they were forced to make some difficult decisions including downsizing operations in Dubuque. Despite these challenges, Mercury Marine remained committed to Dubuque – maintaining a strong presence within the community through philanthropic efforts and partnerships with local organizations such as Habitat for Humanity. Today, Mercury Marine continues its legacy as a leading manufacturer of marine propulsion systems while remaining an integral part of Dubuque's economy and culture. With state-of-the-art facilities producing high-quality products backed by decades of experience and expertise – it is clear that Mercury will continue making waves well into the future. Through its long history in Dubuque, Mercury Marine has not only provided jobs and economic growth, but it has also been a pillar of the community. The company's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a trusted brand among boaters around the world. One notable aspect of Mercury Marine's presence in Dubuque is their dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In 2017, they opened a state-of-the-art facility for testing and development of new products that focuses on reducing emissions and increasing fuel efficiency. They have also implemented green initiatives such as using recycled materials in their production processes. In addition to its contributions to the local economy, Mercury Marine has also made significant philanthropic efforts within the community. The company has donated funds towards various projects including education programs at local schools, scholarships for students pursuing careers in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering & math), as well as donations towards charitable organizations like United Way. Mercury Marine's impact on Dubuque goes beyond just economic benefits – it has become an integral part of the city’s identity. From sponsoring local events like boat shows and fishing tournaments to participating in volunteer activities with employees – Mercury continues to give back to the community that welcomed them over 80 years ago. Looking ahead into the future, there are many exciting developments for both Mercury Marine and Dubuque as a whole. In recent years, there have been talks about expanding operations through partnerships with other companies. This could lead to even more job opportunities for residents while further solidifying Dubuque's reputation as an industrial hub. The history of Mercury Marine in Dubuque is one filled with resilience and success despite challenges along the way. Through its commitment to innovation, quality products, sustainability efforts, philanthropy & strong ties with the community – this iconic company will continue shaping both Dubuque’s economy & culture for generations to come.

Mercury Marine is a world-renowned company that has been producing high-quality marine engines for over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, the company has grown from a small operation in Wisconsin to a global leader in the marine industry. Today, Mercury Marine is owned by Brunswick Corporation and continues to innovate and provide top-of-the-line products for boaters around the world. From its humble beginnings, Mercury Marine has always been focused on pushing boundaries and setting new standards in the marine industry. In its early years, the company faced financial struggles but never wavered from its commitment to quality and innovation. This determination paid off when Mercury Marine introduced their first outboard engine, the "Lightning" in 1940. It was an instant success and marked the beginning of their journey towards becoming an industry leader. Since then, Mercury Marine has continued to develop innovative technology that sets them apart from other manufacturers. In 1957, they launched their first V6 outboard engine which revolutionized boat performance with increased power and speed capabilities. This was followed by many more groundbreaking innovations such as electronic fuel injection systems, digital throttle controls, joystick piloting technology, and most recently their patented Active Trim system that automatically adjusts trim angle while underway. In addition to outboard engines ranging from two horsepower up to 600 horsepower for recreational use, Mercury also produces sterndrive engines used primarily for larger boats as well as diesel engines for commercial vessels. They are constantly investing in research and development to improve existing products while also exploring new technologies such as hybrid-electric propulsion systems. One key factor behind Mercury's success is their commitment to environmental sustainability through responsible manufacturing practices and reducing emissions from their engines. As one of the leading manufacturers of marine propulsion systems globally with production facilities located across four continents – North America (USA), Asia (Japan), Europe (Italy) & Australia – they understand how important it is to balance the needs of their customers with the protection of our natural resources. Mercury Marine's dedication to quality and innovation has not gone unnoticed. They have received numerous awards and recognitions over the years, including being named as one of Forbes' 100 Most Trustworthy Companies in America for three consecutive years (2015-2017). In addition, they are also recognized by J.D. Power for providing superior customer satisfaction in marine engine performance. Apart from manufacturing high-quality engines, Mercury Marine also provides exceptional customer service through their extensive network of dealers worldwide. With over 1,200 authorized dealers globally, boaters can rely on Mercury experts for any technical support or maintenance needs. This level of commitment to customer satisfaction has helped build a loyal community of boating enthusiasts who trust and stand behind the Mercury brand. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded its footprint beyond just producing marine engines. They now offer a wide range of accessories such as propellers, control systems, gauges & displays that are designed to work seamlessly with their engines. The company also owns several popular boat brands like Bayliner and Lund Boats which further solidifies their position as an industry leader. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's relentless pursuit of excellence has made them an iconic name in the marine industry. Their commitment to innovation and sustainability has allowed them to stay ahead of competitors while providing top-of-the-line products for recreational boaters as well as commercial users globally. With no signs of slowing down anytime soon, we can expect even more groundbreaking technology from this legendary company in the future.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, has a long and storied history in Dubuque, Iowa. The company first established a presence in Dubuque in 1939 when it acquired the former Kiekhaefer Manufacturing Company. Kiekhaefer Manufacturing was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin in 1939. The company initially produced magnetic separators for the dairy industry but soon began manufacturing outboard motors under the brand name Mercury. These early Mercury outboards quickly gained popularity for their reliability and performance on the water. In 1940, Kiekhaefer Manufacturing moved its operations to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin to be closer to key suppliers and transportation hubs. However, as demand for Mercury outboards continued to grow, the company needed additional production facilities. In 1943, they purchased an old foundry building on Kerper Boulevard in Dubuque that had previously been used by John Deere. The Dubuque facility primarily produced aluminum castings for Mercury's engines and gearcases until 1965 when it expanded its capabilities to include machining operations as well. By this time, Mercury had become one of the leading manufacturers of recreational marine propulsion systems. Throughout the following decades, Mercury continued to expand its operations in Dubuque with new buildings constructed and existing ones renovated or expanded. In addition to producing parts for outboard motors and sterndrives (inboard/outboard engines), the facility also began producing trolling motors and personal watercraft parts. In 2008, construction was completed on a state-of-the-art testing facility at the Dubuque location where all types of marine engines are tested before being shipped around the world. This testing center allows engineers to simulate real-world conditions on land rather than having them go through lengthy sea trials – saving both time and resources. Today,theDubuquemanufacturingfacilityspansover1million square feet and employs over 1,000 people. It is one of the largest employers in the Dubuque area and plays a critical role in the local economy. Over the years, Mercury Marine has received numerous awards for its contributions to the marine industry and commitment to sustainability. In 2019, they were recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Midsize Employers and also received an award from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds for their environmental efforts. In addition to its manufacturing operations, Mercury Marine is also deeply involved in the Dubuque community through various philanthropic initiatives. They support organizations such as Junior Achievement, Habitat for Humanity, United Way, and local schools through donations and volunteer work. Mercury Marine's presence in Dubuque has been a significant part of both the city's history and its economic growth. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality products,and community involvement,the company continues to be a vital contributor to Dubuque's thriving marine industry.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the heart of the Midwest region of the United States. It is situated along the Mississippi River, making it a vital transportation hub for both goods and people. Known as "The Key City," Dubuque has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1833 by French-Canadian entrepreneur Julien Dubuque. Today, Dubuque is home to over 57,000 residents and covers an area of approximately 31 square miles. The city's economy thrives on diverse industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, education, tourism, and agriculture. Its strategic location near major highways and railroads makes it an ideal spot for businesses looking to expand their operations. One of the most notable aspects of Dubuque is its strong sense of community. The people here are friendly and welcoming, creating a warm atmosphere that makes visitors feel right at home. This close-knit community has also been recognized nationally for its civic engagement and volunteerism. Dubuque boasts a vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries showcasing local talent and hosting events throughout the year. The city's cultural diversity is reflected in its festivals such as America’s River Festival which celebrates music from various genres including blues, rock & roll, country among others. Historical preservation plays an integral part in preserving Dubuque's past while embracing modern development strategies for economic growth. One example is the Millwork District – once abandoned factories converted into trendy apartments with amenities like restaurants cafes boutiques art houses movie theaters live performance venues among others. Speaking of historical preservation - one cannot talk about Dubuque without mentioning its iconic landmarks: Fenelon Place Elevator – world's shortest steepest railway; Five Flags Center – venue for concerts conferences sporting events theater productions among others; Diamond Jo Casino - gaming entertainment destination overlooking Mississippi river; Eagle Point Park - scenic park where tourists enjoy picnics hiking biking fishing camping bird-watching among other outdoor activities. Another significant aspect of Dubuque is its commitment to sustainability. The city has implemented various green initiatives such as the installation of solar panels, promoting energy-efficient buildings and transportation, and offering recycling services to residents. These efforts have earned Dubuque recognition as one of the most sustainable cities in the country. Dubuque also takes pride in its education system, providing quality education from pre-school through higher education. The city is home to several public and private schools known for their high academic standards. Higher learning institutions include University of Dubuque - a liberal arts university with over 60 majors; Loras College - a Catholic college renowned for its nursing program; Clarke University – a liberal arts institution offering graduate undergraduate degrees among others. In terms of healthcare, Dubuque boasts top-notch medical facilities such as Mercy Medical Center and UnityPoint Health-Finley Hospital which provide comprehensive care to both residents and visitors alike. The Mississippi River serves not only as an important transportation route but also provides recreational opportunities for locals and tourists alike. Activities like riverboat cruises, fishing charters, canoeing, kayaking are popular along with waterfront dining options that offer scenic views while enjoying delicious meals. Dubuque's location near Iowa-Illinois-Wisconsin tri-state area makes it an ideal destination for day trips or weekend getaways. Within driving distance are attractions like Galena (IL) – charming small town dotted with historic sites boutiques wineries art galleries restaurants hot-air balloon rides etc.; Wisconsin Dells – "Waterpark Capital" featuring world’s largest waterparks amusement parks golf courses casinos hiking trails boat tours shopping centers etc.; Field Of Dreams movie site where Kevin Costner hit classic film was shot complete with baseball field farmhouse souvenir shop B&B lodging option among others; Effigy Mounds National Monument preserving sacred ground Native American burial mounds located north-east part state bordering Mississippi River. In conclusion, Dubuque, Iowa is a hidden gem in the Midwest with something to offer for everyone. From its rich history and vibrant culture to its commitment to sustainability and strong sense of community, this city truly has it all. Whether you are looking for a place to call home or planning your next vacation destination, Dubuque is definitely worth considering. So come visit "The Key City" and experience all that it has to offer!

Mercury Marine is a global leader in the marine industry, known for its high-quality outboard engines and boat parts. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has a rich history of innovation and success. The story of Mercury Marine begins with the entrepreneurial spirit of Carl Kiekhaefer. After graduating from engineering school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, he worked as an engineer for a company that manufactured refrigeration units. However, he soon realized that this was not his true passion and decided to start his own business. In 1939, Kiekhaefer founded Kiekhaefer Corporation in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Initially focused on producing magnetic separators and dairy farm equipment, Kiekhaefer quickly turned his attention to developing lightweight two-cylinder outboard motors for boats. These motors were smaller and more powerful than what was currently available on the market. Kiekhaefer's innovative designs caught the attention of the U.S Department of Defense during World War II. They commissioned him to develop small gasoline-powered generators for military use. This experience helped him refine his engineering skills and led to further improvements in his outboard motor designs. After World War II ended, demand for recreational boating increased significantly. In response to this growing market, Kiekhaefer renamed his company Mercury Marine in 1945 after Roman god Mercury – known for speed – symbolizing their fast-growing business. During this time period, Mercury Marine made significant advancements in technology and design that revolutionized the marine industry. In 1950 they introduced their first four-cylinder engine which produced twice as much power as any other outboard motor on the market at that time. By constantly pushing boundaries with new developments such as electronic ignition systems (1951), waterproof alternators (1964), power trim (1972) and direct fuel injection (1996), Mercury became the market leader in marine engines. They also acquired many other companies along the way, including Kiekhaefer Aeromarine Motors and Obex Marine. In the 1970s, Mercury expanded its product line to include sterndrive engines and boat parts such as controls, gauges, propellers and accessories. This move established Mercury as a one-stop-shop for all boating needs. The company continued to grow throughout the decades and in 1998 was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a leading manufacturer of recreational products worldwide. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury Marine continued to expand globally with operations in Europe, Asia-Pacific region and South America. Today, Mercury Marine is recognized as one of the most innovative brands in the marine industry. Their outboard motors are known for their reliability, performance and fuel efficiency while their boat parts are trusted by boaters around the world. In recent years, Mercury has focused on sustainability initiatives such as reducing carbon emissions from their manufacturing processes and developing more environmentally friendly products. In 2019 they introduced an electric propulsion system – called "Mercury Racing Electric" – which offers zero-emission power for high-performance boats. Despite challenges faced by COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 that affected many industries globally; demand for recreational boating has increased significantly resulting into record sales figures achieved by Mercury Marine during this time period. This further demonstrates their resilience and strong brand reputation within the industry. As we look towards future advancements in technology such as autonomous boats or alternative fuels like hydrogen-powered engines; it is clear that Mercury will continue to be at forefront of innovation within the marine industry. In conclusion, over its more than eighty-year history; Mercury Marine has grown from a small business producing dairy farm equipment to a global leader in marine technology with thousands of employees worldwide. Through its commitment to innovation, quality products and sustainable practices; it continues to shape the future of recreational boating while honoring its rich history and legacy of success.

Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation and is known as one of the leading manufacturers of marine propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who started out producing outboard motors in his garage in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Kiekhaefer had a background in engineering and saw potential for innovation and improvement in the outboard motor industry. He began experimenting with different designs and eventually developed an improved two-cylinder engine that became popular among boaters. In 1940, Kiekhaefer officially launched his company under the name "Kiekhaefer Corporation" and relocated it to Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. The name was later changed to "Mercury" after the Roman god associated with speed. During World War II, Mercury focused on producing motors for military use such as rescue boats and torpedo bombers. After the war ended, Mercury shifted its focus back to recreational boating and continued to expand its product line. In 1955, Mercury introduced its first V-6 engine which revolutionized powerboat racing by offering increased horsepower and speed. This led to many successful years on the racing circuit for Mercury-powered boats. Throughout the following decades, Mercury continued to innovate with new technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and stern drive propellers. They also expanded their product offerings beyond outboard motors to include sterndrives, jet drives, propellers, controls systems, parts/accessories,and inflatable boats. In 2008,Brunswick Corporation acquired Power Products Group LLC which included companies like Quicksilver Parts & Accessories,Mercruiser Sterndrive engines,Kingston Aluminum Boats,Yamaha Jet Drive parts etc.This acquisition strengthened Brunswick's position as a leader in marine propulsion technology.In recent years,the company has focused on developing more environmentally-friendly products,such as their Verado series of outboard engines that meet strict emission standards while still providing high performance. Today, Mercury Marine has manufacturing facilities in the United States, Mexico, China,and Belgium and employs over 7,500 people worldwide. Their products are sold in more than 90 countries through a network of dealers and distributors. Mercury Marine's commitment to innovation and quality has made them a trusted brand among boaters around the world. They continue to push the boundaries of marine propulsion technology and strive for sustainability in their operations. With a rich history dating back over 80 years, Mercury Marine remains dedicated to providing reliable and high-performing products for all types of boating enthusiasts.

Located along the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa, Dubuque is a city with a rich and diverse history. Its story begins long before European settlement, with Native American tribes using the area for hunting and fishing. However, it was French explorer Julien Dubuque who first established a permanent presence in this region in the late 18th century. From there, Dubuque has evolved from a small trading post to a thriving industrial center and cultural hub. The earliest known inhabitants of present-day Dubuque were the Meskwaki (or Fox) tribe. They were semi-nomadic people who lived off the land and had established villages along the Mississippi River for centuries before Europeans arrived. The Meskwaki controlled much of what is now eastern Iowa until they were forced out by other Native American tribes in the early 19th century. In 1788, Julien Dubuque became one of the first European settlers to live permanently on what is now called "Dubuque's Point." He was granted permission by local Native American leaders to mine lead ore from their lands and establish trade relationships with them. This led to the development of an important fur trade route between St Louis and Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin through Dubuque's Point. After his death in 1810, control of mining operations passed on to other settlers who formed various companies that continued mining lead ore throughout much of the 19th century. This attracted more settlers to this area as well as workers from Europe seeking employment opportunities. By mid-century, Dubuque had become not only an important economic center but also a major transportation hub due to its strategic location near both waterways (the Mississippi River) and overland routes (such as railroads). With increased access came rapid growth – by 1865 it had become Iowa’s largest city with over 20,000 residents. Dubuque's economy diversified during this time period, with industries such as lumber, milling, and meatpacking joining the lead mining industry. The city also became a major center for brewing beer – at one point housing over 20 breweries. Its location on the Mississippi River made it an ideal place for shipping goods across the country. However, Dubuque was not immune to struggles faced by other parts of the United States during this time period. In 1858, a devastating fire destroyed much of its downtown area and led to significant rebuilding efforts. Additionally, tensions arose between European settlers and Native American tribes who were forced to leave their lands in order for settlement to occur. The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought about new challenges but also saw continued growth and progress in Dubuque. The city became home to several prominent educational institutions such as Clarke University (then known as Mount St Joseph College) and Loras College which helped shape its future workforce. Dubuque also played a role in shaping national history during this time period. In 1865, Abraham Lincoln delivered a speech from the balcony of the Julien Hotel (now known as Hotel Julien Dubuque) just days after his assassination – making it one of only two cities outside Washington D.C where he spoke publicly after being elected president. In more recent times, Dubuque has experienced both successes and setbacks that have shaped its current state. The decline of manufacturing jobs in the mid-20th century resulted in population loss and economic struggles for some residents. However, revitalization efforts have been ongoing since then with investments being made into tourism attractions such as riverboat gambling casinos along with preserving historic buildings like those found in Downtown Main Street Districts or Cable Car Square. Today, Dubuque continues to thrive thanks to its strong economy fueled by diverse industries including healthcare services, education facilities like Northeast Iowa Community College’s Peosta campus nearby contributing greatly towards employment opportunities within these sectors while still maintaining its historical charm. Its rich history is celebrated through various festivals and events, including the annual Riverfest which attracts thousands of visitors to the city each summer. In conclusion, Dubuque's journey from a French trading post to a bustling industrial and cultural center is a testament to the resilience of its people. The city has faced challenges but has always found ways to adapt and thrive – making it an important piece of Iowa’s history. Today, Dubuque stands as a vibrant community with a strong sense of pride in its past while also looking towards the future with optimism and determination. As long as there are people who call this city home, Dubuque will continue to evolve and make history for generations to come.

Dubuque, Iowa is a city located in the eastern part of the state on the banks of the Mississippi River. It is named after Julien Dubuque, a French Canadian trader who arrived in the area in 1785 and was granted permission by Native American tribes to mine lead ore. The first European settlement in Dubuque was established by fur traders in 1788, but it wasn't until Julien Dubuque's arrival that permanent settlement began. He formed a partnership with local Native American tribes and operated lead mines along the river, which became known as "Mines of Spain." The area quickly became a center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along the river. In 1833, Dubuque officially became a town when John Bell purchased land from Julien Dubuque's heirs and platted out streets and lots. By 1836, it had become one of Iowa's largest cities with over 1,000 residents. The population continued to grow as more settlers were attracted to the fertile land for farming and opportunities for business. Dubuque played an important role during westward expansion as it served as a major transportation hub for steamboats traveling up and down the Mississippi River. In addition to agriculture products being shipped out on these boats, goods such as lumber, coal, salt,and whiskey were also transported into town. During this time period, immigrants from Germany and Ireland also began arriving in large numbers seeking economic opportunities. These new arrivals helped diversify both industry and culture within Dubuque. By mid-19th century,Dubuque emerged as an industrial powerhouse with flour mills,breweries,textile mills foundries,and other manufacturing plants sprouting up throughout town.Along with these industries came job opportunities which further fueled immigration particularly from central Europe.Hence,the city grew not just economically but culturally too-with many churches,schools,newspapers,and cultural organizations being established. However,as the 20th century dawned,Dubuque's prosperity was challenged by a series of natural disasters including major floods and fires.These events caused significant damage to infrastructure and businesses,but the city persevered and rebuilt itself each time. In fact,in 1934,Dubuque became one of the first cities in the country to implement a comprehensive flood control system which helped prevent future flooding. In recent years,Dubuque has undergone a revitalization as efforts have been made to preserve its historic buildings and neighborhoods while also attracting new businesses. Today,the city is known for its vibrant downtown area with unique shops,restaurants,and entertainment venues.Its thriving economy is supported by industries such as manufacturing,tourism,and education. Dubuque also boasts a strong commitment to sustainability with initiatives such as renewable energy production,green building practices,and environmental education programs.This dedication has earned Dubuque several awards including being named an "All-American City" in 2007 for its civic engagement and community partnerships. Overall,Dubuq

Mercury Marine has a rich history in Dubuque, Iowa dating back to the early 1930s. The company's presence in Dubuque has not only shaped the local economy but also played an integral role in the development of the city itself. The story of Mercury Marine in Dubuque begins with its founder, E. Carl Kiekhaefer. In 1933, at just 25 years old, Kiekhaefer started his own small business called Kiekhaefer Corporation which specialized in outboard engines for boats. However, it wasn't until he moved his operation to Cedarburg, Wisconsin that he began manufacturing under the name Mercury Marine. In 1946, after experiencing significant growth and success with Mercury Marine in Wisconsin, Kiekhaefer made a bold decision to expand operations outside of his home state and set his sights on Dubuque. At that time, Dubuque was known as a hub for river transportation and had established itself as an ideal location for industrial companies due to its access to major waterways such as the Mississippi River. Upon arriving in Dubuque with just six employees and $35,000 worth of equipment from Wisconsin, Kiekhaefer immediately recognized the potential for growth and expansion within this new location. He purchased an abandoned factory building on Kerper Boulevard and began transforming it into what would become one of the largest marine engine manufacturing plants in North America. With hard work and determination, Kiekhaefer quickly built up his workforce by hiring skilled workers from around Iowa who were looking for stable employment opportunities during post-World War II economic recovery. By 1952, Mercury Marine had over 1,500 employees working at their plant in Dubuque. As production continued to increase throughout the next few decades, Mercury Marine became a household name worldwide due to their high-quality products backed by innovative technology designed and manufactured in Dubuque. The company's success also led to significant advancements in the marine industry, including the development of new engines and techniques that revolutionized boating. In 1961, Mercury Marine introduced their famous "Tower of Power" outboard motor which featured six cylinders instead of the traditional four. This engine design provided more power and speed for boats, making it a popular choice among boat enthusiasts. It was also during this time that Mercury Marine began producing sterndrive units – an alternative to outboard motors with the ability to tilt up and down for better maneuverability on larger boats. With continued growth and expansion, Mercury Marine became one of Dubuque's largest employers throughout the latter half of the 20th century. The company not only provided stable jobs but also invested in its employees by offering training programs and opportunities for advancement within the organization. In addition to their economic impact, Mercury Marine has been deeply involved in supporting various community initiatives in Dubuque over the years. They have contributed funds towards education programs, healthcare facilities, environmental conservation projects, youth sports teams, and many other local causes. Today, Mercury Marine continues its legacy as a major player in both Iowa's economy as well as globally within the marine industry. In 2016, the company announced plans for a $10 million expansion at their Dubuque facility to increase production capacity even further. As we look towards Mercury Marine's future in Dubuque, it is clear that they will continue to be an important part of both local history and global innovation. Their dedication to excellence has solidified them as a leader in their field while contributing greatly to the growth and prosperity of Dubuque over nearly nine decades since E.Carl Kiekhaefer first set foot on its shores.

Mercury Marine is a global leader in the marine industry, known for its high-quality outboard motors and propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by E. Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin and has since grown to become one of the most recognized names in boating. Over the years, Mercury Marine has established itself as an innovator and pioneer in the marine industry. They have continuously pushed boundaries with their technology and products, setting new standards for performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency. This dedication to excellence has earned them numerous awards and accolades from both customers and industry experts. One of Mercury Marine's key strengths lies in its extensive product portfolio. The company offers a wide range of outboard engines ranging from 2.5 horsepower to 400 horsepower, suitable for various types of boats including fishing boats, recreational boats, pontoons, cruisers, and more. Additionally, they also offer sterndrive engines (inboard-outboards), propellers, parts & accessories such as gauges & controls to enhance user experience on watercrafts. The success of Mercury Marine can be attributed not only to their innovative products but also to their commitment towards customer satisfaction. The company prides itself on providing top-notch service through its dealer network across the globe. With over 4 million customers worldwide trusting Mercury Marine products on their vessels every day speaks volumes about their quality assurance practices which ensure consistent quality checks throughout manufacturing processes before delivering them into marketplaces worldwide. In addition to serving individual boat owners' needs through dealerships globally - this commitment extends beyond individuals with corporate partnerships that cater specifically towards commercial fleets such as water taxis or rental companies who need reliable equipment most importantly when time matters! It's no surprise that many professional anglers choose Mercury engines due to outstanding engine durability despite harsh environments encountered during tournaments! Another aspect that sets Mercury Marine apart is its focus on environmental sustainability through continuous innovation. The company has invested heavily in research and development to create more fuel-efficient engines that meet or exceed the latest environmental regulations. They have also introduced new technologies such as the Mercury Active Trim, which automatically adjusts engine trim for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Moreover, Mercury Marine is committed to giving back to the community through various initiatives. One of their notable contributions is their partnership with the National Coalition for Fishing Communities (NCFC), where they work together to advocate for sustainable fishing practices and protect marine resources. In recent years, Mercury Marine has expanded its operations globally by opening manufacturing facilities in countries like China and Brazil, making them a truly global brand. This expansion not only helps them reach new markets but also creates job opportunities for local communities. Despite facing tough competition from other major players in the marine industry, Mercury Marine continues to thrive due to its strong brand reputation, innovative products, superior customer service, commitment towards sustainability and community building efforts. However impressive their achievements may be; there are still areas where improvement can be made - most notably expanding into electric propulsion systems & hybrids as many automobile brands transition into these cleaner alternatives worldwide! Nonetheless; we can't help but highlight some of their milestones over 80+ years: - In 1940s: Introduced first outboard motors with steel sleeves - In 1957: Developed Mercruiser sterndrive system - In 1972: Launched "Tower of Power" inline six-cylinder outboard motor which revolutionized high-power boating. - In 1984: Introduced Alpha One drive - one of best-selling boat drives ever! - In early '90s : First manufacturer introducing electronic fuel injection technology. - Late '90s : Acquired ownership by Brunswick Corporation – ushering modern era focused on innovation! Overall growth since then witnessed record-breaking sales figures across units sold annually & revenue generated - despite economic downturns along way! In conclusion; it is clear that Mercury Marine has a long-standing legacy of excellence in the marine industry. From its humble beginnings in Wisconsin to becoming a global leader, the company has remained true to its values and commitment towards innovation, customer satisfaction, sustainability, and community building efforts. With their continuous drive for improvement and adaptation to changing market demands; it's safe to say that they will continue setting the standard for years to come!