Crestliner is a well-known and respected brand in the world of boating, with a rich history that dates back to 1946. Founded in Little Falls, Minnesota by two brothers, David and Willis Northrup, Crestliner has become an iconic name in the marine industry. However, what many people may not know is that Madison, Wisconsin played a crucial role in shaping the early years of this company. In 1953, just seven years after its inception, Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), headquartered in Waukegan, Illinois. OMC recognized the potential for growth and expansion within Crestliner and saw an opportunity to establish a manufacturing branch in Madison. The city’s location on Lake Mendota made it an ideal spot for building boats and provided easy access to markets across the Midwest. The first plant was established on Fair Oaks Avenue on Madison’s east side. It was a small operation at first with only about thirty employees but would soon grow exponentially. In its initial stages, the plant focused primarily on producing aluminum fishing boats which were gaining popularity among recreational anglers. With skilled craftsmen from around Wisconsin joining their team over time,the quality of Crestliner boats quickly gained recognition as some of the best-built watercrafts available at affordable prices.Moreover,the production process evolved significantly during these early years as new technologies were incorporated into boatbuilding techniques.By incorporating welding processes like heliarc welding,Crestliner produced stronger hulls while maintaining lightweight construction.Others advancements included using thicker gauge aluminum sheets,resulting in sturdier hulls,and creating more intricate designs through computer numerical control cutting machines.These innovations helped set them apart from other boat manufacturers,and demand for their products steadily increased. By 1960,the original plant had outgrown itself,and OMC decided to construct anew,facility.The new facility,on Stoughton Road,served not just as manufacturing,but also assemblyand administration headquarters for the company.With this expansion, Crestliner was able to increase production and introduce new models such as runabouts,sailboats,and cruisers. The 1970s were a difficult time for the marine industry due to economic recession and changing consumer preferences. However, Crestliner managed to stay afloat by diversifying its product line and focusing on innovation. In 1971,Crestliner introduced its first fiberglass boat,the Apollo model.It received positive reviews from both customers and critics alike,which encouraged further exploration into different materials.In addition,the company began experimenting with designs that incorporated both aluminum and fiberglass elements,resulting in boats with superior strength,durability,and aesthetics. In the early 1980s,Crestliner once again expanded their operations by acquiring another plant in Rhinelander,Wisconsin.This facility focused primarily on producing sailboats which had gained popularity among sailing enthusiasts.The acquisition also allowed them to incorporate OMC’s Evinrude engines into their boats,giving customers more options when it came to powering their watercrafts. Despite these expansions,Crestliner faced financial difficulties during this decade.Ownership changed hands a few times within OMC,but ultimately ended up under Genmar Holdings,a Minnesota-based recreational boating manufacturer.However,in spite of these changes,the Madison facilities continued operating,maintaining jobs,and contributing positivelytothe local economy. In recent years, Crestliner has undergone several ownership changes but continues to operate out of its Madison location. Today,it is owned by Brunswick Corporation,a leading global designer,manufacturer,and marketer of recreational products.With access to advanced technologies,facilities,and resources offered by Brunswick,Crestliner has been able t
Crestliner is a renowned brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality aluminum boats and exceptional craftsmanship. Founded in 1946 by Richard Tetzlaff, Crestliner has established itself as a leading manufacturer of fishing and recreational boats. With over 75 years of experience, the company has built a strong reputation for producing durable and reliable watercraft that meet the needs of both professional anglers and recreational boaters. The History of Crestliner Richard Tetzlaff started his career as an engineer at Firestone Tire & Rubber Company during World War II. After serving his country in the Navy, he returned to civilian life with a desire to start his own business. He saw great potential in aluminum boats which were gaining popularity due to their durability and lightweight construction. In 1946, Tetzlaff founded Crestliner Boats Inc. in Little Falls, Minnesota – originally called Aluminum Boat & Canoe Company – with only five employees. The first boat they produced was named "The Muskie," which was designed specifically for trolling muskies on Lake Mille Lacs. As demand grew for Crestliner's innovative designs and sturdy construction, the company expanded its product line to include other types of fishing boats such as walleye models and bass boats. In 1959, they introduced their first fiberglass boat – marking their entrance into the recreational boating market. Over time, Crestliner continued to innovate and expand its offerings by introducing new technologies like welded seams instead of rivets for increased strength and durability. In 1961, it became part of Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), allowing them access to advanced engineering resources. In recent years, Brunswick Corporation acquired OMC along with other well-known brands such as Mercury Marine engines and Sea Ray yachts. This partnership has allowed Crestliner to further enhance its production processes while maintaining its commitment to quality craftsmanship. Boat Models Crestliner offers a wide range of boat models to cater to different types of boaters. Their fishing boats include the Bass Hawk, PT 20, and TC 18 series – all designed for competitive anglers looking for top-notch performance. For those who enjoy recreational boating, Crestliner also has several models like the Super Hawk and Fish Hawk series that are versatile enough to be used for both fishing and water sports activities. These boats feature amenities such as comfortable seating, ample storage space, and powerful motors. Apart from fishing and recreational boats, Crestliner also offers pontoon boats that provide a perfect mix of comfort and functionality. The Rally DX series is known for its spacious layout with plenty of room for family or friends to relax while cruising on the water. Innovation in Design One of Crestliner's key strengths lies in its commitment to innovation through technology-driven design processes. The company invested heavily in research and development over the years resulting in cutting-edge designs that enhance performance on the water. Their patented hull designs offer superior stability even in rough waters while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. With advanced features like SureMount gunnel systems – which allow users to easily mount accessories without drilling holes into their boat – Crestliner continues to stay ahead of other manufacturers in terms of convenience and versatility. Sustainability Efforts Crestliner takes pride not only in producing high-quality boats but also being environmentally conscious throughout their manufacturing process. They have implemented sustainable practices such as using recycled aluminum material for construction, reducing waste during production, and partnering with organizations like Keep America Fishing®to promote responsible angling practices among its customers. The company has also taken steps towards improving fuel efficiency by incorporating Mercury Marine engines equipped with ECO-Screen™ technology into some boat models. This system enables boaters to monitor engine speed relative to fuel consumption – providing them with real-time information on how efficiently they are operating their boat. Customer Service Aside from its top-of-the-line boats, Crestliner is also known for its exceptional customer service. The company has a strong network of authorized dealers who provide customers with personalized support during the buying process and after-sales services. Crestliner also offers an extensive warranty on their boats, which reflects their confidence in the quality and durability of their products. With a dedicated team of professionals always willing to assist, customers can rest assured that they will have a positive experience with both the product and the brand. In Conclusion Crestliner's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction has solidified its position as one of the most trusted brands in the boating industry. Their rich history of producing high-quality aluminum boats stands as a testament to their dedication to excellence. With over 75 years of experience under their belt, Crestliner continues to push boundaries by incorporating advanced technologies into their designs while staying true to their roots – providing anglers and recreational boaters with reliable watercrafts that allow them to enjoy memorable experiences on the water.
Crestliner is a boat manufacturing company that was founded in 1946 in Little Falls, Minnesota. However, the company's history in Madison, Wisconsin dates back to the early 1960s. In 1961, Crestliner established a production facility in Madison to meet the growing demand for their boats. At this time, they primarily manufactured aluminum fishing boats and runabouts. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Crestliner continued to grow and expand its presence in Madison. They introduced new models such as ski boats and cruisers, which became popular among recreational boaters. In 1983, Brunswick Corporation acquired Crestliner and made it part of their marine division alongside other well-known brands such as Mercury Marine and Boston Whaler. This acquisition brought significant investment into Crestliner's operations and allowed them to further expand their product line. During the late 1980s and early 1990s, Crestliner experienced a period of rapid growth as they introduced innovative features such as welded seams on their aluminum hulls. This technology revolutionized boat construction by providing increased durability compared to traditional riveted hull designs. In addition to producing high-quality boats for recreational use, Crestliner also began manufacturing commercial vessels for various industries including law enforcement agencies and fire departments. Today, Crestliner operates out of a state-of-the-art facility in New York Mills, Minnesota but still maintains a strong connection with its roots in Madison. The city remains an important hub for research & development activities with many of its skilled engineers working at this location. Crestliner has also maintained close ties with local dealerships who sell their products across Wisconsin including those located near Lake Mendota - one of the largest lakes near Madison known for its excellent fishing opportunities. Overall,Crestliners' presence has had a positive impact on the economy of Madison by providing job opportunities both directly through employment at their facilities or indirectly through partnerships with local businesses. In conclusion, Crestliner's history in Madison is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and quality. Their continued growth and success in the region have solidified their position as one of the leading boat manufacturers not just in Wisconsin but across the world.
Madison is the capital city of Wisconsin located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is also known as "The City of Four Lakes" due to its location on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, with two smaller lakes – Lake Wingra and Lake Waubesa – lying just south of the city. Founded in 1829, Madison has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times when it was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Ho-Chunk and Menominee people. The area became home to European settlers in the 1830s, and it quickly developed into a bustling trading post due to its strategic location between Milwaukee and Green Bay. Today, Madison is a vibrant city with a population of over 250,000 residents. It is not only known for its beautiful lakes but also for being home to one of the most prestigious universities in the country – The University of Wisconsin-Madison. This university plays a significant role in shaping Madison's culture and economy, making it a hub for education, research, and innovation. One notable aspect of Madison’s culture is its strong commitment to environmental conservation. The city has consistently ranked high on lists measuring sustainability efforts among US cities. In fact, Madison was named America's greenest city by NerdWallet in 2020 due to initiatives like renewable energy programs, bike-friendly infrastructure, local food production systems, waste reduction schemes among others. In terms of economics,Madison boasts diverse industries ranging from healthcare and biotechnology companies to government agencies such as state agencies or federal offices like USGS (United States Geological Survey). This diversity makes it resilient against economic downturns that may affect other cities heavily reliant on one industry. However,it would be remiss not mention that one industry dominates employment opportunities within this urban area -the University itself employs nearly 30 thousand individuals which equates almost half (approximately 16%) of Madison's workforce. The university also attracts a large student population, bringing in fresh ideas and talent to the city. Madison has a vibrant arts scene with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues scattered throughout the city. One of its most notable cultural events is the annual Art Fair on the Square – one of the largest outdoor art fairs in the country. This event brings together artists from all over to showcase their work while visitors can enjoy live music and food from local vendors. The city’s love for nature is evident through its extensive park system that covers over 6,000 acres. These parks offer residents and visitors alike opportunities for recreational activities such as hiking, biking, boating, and picnicking. In addition to parks,Madisonis home to numerous gardens like Olbrich Botanical Gardens which boasts stunning floral displays year-round. Food enthusiasts will find plenty to indulge in as well.Madisonhas a thriving farm-to-table culture with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients locally from farmers' markets or community-supported agriculture (CSA) farms. Furthermore,the city hosts several food festivals throughout the year celebrating different cuisines like Greek Fest or Taste of Madison. In terms of education,Madison takes pride in having an excellent public school system along with highly-ranked private schools. Its commitment towards education extends beyond primary and secondary schools; Madison also offers various programs at post-secondary institutions such as UW-Madison Extension which provides continuing education for adults looking to enhance their skills or pursue new interests. Madison’s quality of life is not just limited by its natural beauty but also by its strong sense of community.Madisonsupports various social initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity within society regardless race,class,and sexual orientation.This has contributed greatlyto making it one of America's happiest cities accordingto National Geographic Traveler Magazine.Its close-knit communities foster a friendly atmosphere where neighbors know each other,and residents often participate in community events like neighborhood picnics or block parties. In conclusion,Madison is a city that has something for everyone. Its natural beauty, commitment to sustainability, diverse economy, and strong sense of community make it an attractive place to live, work, and play. Whether you are looking to further your education or simply enjoy the outdoors,Madison offers endless opportunities for growth and enjoyment. It truly lives up to its motto – "77 square miles surrounded by reality."
Crestliner is a renowned brand in the world of boats and marine equipment, known for its high-quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and longevity. The company has been in operation for over 75 years and has established itself as a leading manufacturer of fishing boats and pontoons. The history of Crestliner began in 1946 when William Morser founded the company in Little Falls, Minnesota. Morser was an entrepreneur who had previously owned a successful car dealership but saw potential in the post-World War II market for recreational boating. He started by building aluminum canoes but quickly expanded his product line to include small fishing boats. In the early days, Crestliner's focus was on producing lightweight yet durable boats that could be easily transported to remote lakes and rivers. This strategy proved successful as fishermen across America embraced Crestliner's products due to their reliability and affordability. In 1953, Crestliner introduced its first all-welded boat made entirely from aluminum – a revolutionary design at the time. This innovation set Crestliner apart from its competitors as it eliminated rivets commonly used in boat construction that were prone to leaking and weakening over time. The all-welded design also allowed for more intricate shapes and sizes, giving customers more options to choose from. As the demand for recreational boating increased throughout the 1960s and 70s, so did Crestliner's presence in the market. The company continued to innovate with new features such as livewells (a tank built into the boat used for keeping live bait), rod storage compartments, casting platforms, steering consoles, windshields, etc., making their boats even more appealing to fishermen. In addition to expanding its product line during this period, Crestliner also grew geographically by opening additional manufacturing facilities across North America. In doing so,Crestliners became more accessible not only within America but also internationally as they began exporting their products worldwide. In the 1980s, Crestliner underwent a significant change in ownership as it was acquired by Brunswick Corporation. This acquisition brought further growth and development to the company, with investments made in new technology and expanded manufacturing capabilities. The 1990s saw Crestliner's product line evolve once again with the introduction of pontoon boats. These versatile vessels offered more space for passengers and were perfect for leisurely cruising or family outings on the water. With their signature all-welded design, these pontoons quickly gained popularity among boaters looking for comfort, stability, and durability. Crestliner continued its tradition of innovation into the new millennium. In 2006, they introduced their patented "UniWeld" technology – a single continuous weld that runs down both sides of each aluminum boat hull. This construction method enhanced strength and reduced weight while maintaining an all-welded design. Today,Crestliner remains at the forefront of boat manufacturing with a wide range of products designed to meet every boater's needs. From fishing boats to pontoons to recreational boats,Crestliner continues to innovate through cutting-edge technologies like advanced welding techniques, improved fuel efficiency engines, integrated electronic systems,and more. In recent years,Crestliners has also placed great emphasis on sustainability by implementing eco-friendly practices throughout its operations. They have implemented environmentally friendly production processes such as using recyclable materials in their boats' construction and reducing energy consumption during manufacturing. As we look towards the future,Crestliner is poised for continued success thanks to its rich history of quality craftsmanship,focus on customer satisfaction,and commitment to innovation.Crestliners strives constantly challenges itself not onlyto provide exceptional products but also top-notch customer service.In addition,the company maintains strong partnerships withinthe marine industry which enables themto stay aheadof trendsand develop game-changing technologiesforthe benefitof customers worldwide. In conclusion,the story behind Crestliner is one filled with determination,invention,and evolution. From its humble beginnings in a small Minnesota town to becoming an internationally recognized brand,Crestliner has stood the test of time and solidified itself as a leader in the boating industry. With its unwavering commitment to quality,innovation,and sustainability,Crestliner will undoubtedly continue to make waves for years to come.
Crestliner is a well-known brand in the boating industry, with a rich history dating back to 1946. The company was founded by two brothers, Willis and Charles Lindahl, who were avid anglers and saw a need for durable and reliable aluminum boats. The first Crestliner boat was built in Little Falls, Minnesota, where the Lindahl brothers used their expertise in metalworking to craft a sturdy yet lightweight vessel. This initial success led them to officially launch Crestliner as a company that same year. In its early years, Crestliner focused on producing small fishing boats for local lakes and rivers. However, as demand grew for larger boats capable of handling bigger bodies of water like the Great Lakes and oceans, Crestliner expanded its product line to include bigger models. One key element that set Crestliner apart from other boat manufacturers at the time was their use of riveted aluminum construction. This method allowed for stronger hulls while maintaining relatively light weight compared to wooden or fiberglass boats. Additionally, this type of construction made it easier for owners to repair any damage sustained while out on the water. In 1952, just six years after launching as a company, Crestliner introduced its first V-hull design which revolutionized the boating industry. This shape allowed for better handling and stability on rough waters - making it an ideal choice not only for fishing but also recreational activities such as water skiing. As demand continued to grow throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Crestliner expanded production facilities and increased its product offerings even further with new models featuring different seating arrangements such as dual consoles or side-by-side captain's chairs. Throughout this period of growth and expansion under the leadership of Willis Lindahl (Charles had sold his share in the business), quality remained paramount at Crestliner. In fact, the company became known not only for innovative designs but also high-quality craftsmanship that could withstand harsh weather conditions and rough waters. In 1980, Crestliner was acquired by the Brunswick Corporation, a global leader in recreational boating. This partnership brought further resources and expertise to help Crestliner continue to innovate and grow. Today, Crestliner offers a wide range of aluminum boats for fishing, recreation, and commercial use. From small utility boats to large pontoon-style party barges, the company has stayed true to its roots of providing durable and reliable vessels for all types of water enthusiasts. Despite changes in ownership over the years, Crestliner remains committed to its core values of quality craftsmanship and innovation. The brand continues to be recognized as a top choice among anglers and boaters alike, with many loyal customers who have been with the company since its early days. In conclusion, Crestliner's history is one of continuous growth and evolution while staying true to its founding principles. As technology advances and customer needs change, the company continues to adapt while maintaining its reputation as a trusted name in the boating industry. With nearly 75 years of experience under their belt, it's safe to say that Crestliner will remain an influential player in the world of boating for many years to come.
Introduction: Madison, Wisconsin is the capital city of the state and is located in Dane County. It is known for its beautiful lakes, vibrant downtown area, and strong community spirit. The history of Madison dates back to the 1830s when it was first established as a small settlement on an isthmus between two lakes. Over time, it has transformed into a thriving city with a rich history that reflects its growth and development. Early Settlement: Before European settlers arrived in what is now known as Madison, the land was inhabited by various Native American tribes including the Ho-Chunk (Winnebago), Sauk, Fox, Potawatomi, and Ojibwe peoples. These tribes had long-standing relationships with each other and used this land for hunting and gathering. In 1829, James Duane Doty surveyed the land that would become Madison on behalf of the federal government. He chose this location due to its strategic position between Lakes Mendota and Monona which provided fertile soil for farming. In October 1836, he named this area "Madison" after President James Madison. Development as a Capital City: In 1838, Wisconsin became a territory separate from Michigan with Belmont serving as its temporary capital. However, there were debates over where to establish a permanent capital city for Wisconsin. Three sites were considered: Fond du Lac Prairie (now present-day Waunakee), Portage (a trading post near Fort Winnebago), and Madison. Ultimately in November 1837 after much lobbying from James Duane Doty who owned large tracts of land in Madison's vicinity; lawmakers voted to make Madison their permanent capital due to its central location within Wisconsin’s borders. The construction of buildings began immediately with plans designed by August Kutzbock who also assisted with planning Washington D.C.’s Capitol building design but died before completing his work on some early structures in Madison. The first Capitol building was a simple, two-story structure built of native limestone. Statehood and Growth: In May 1848, Wisconsin became the 30th state in the United States. This brought even more growth to Madison as it now served as both the capital of a state and county seat for Dane County which had been formed in 1836. With its fertile soil and access to transportation via waterways, Madison quickly became an agricultural hub with wheat farming being its main industry. However, by the end of the Civil War, there was a shift from agriculture to manufacturing as new industries emerged such as tobacco processing, brewing beer, and cigar making. University of Wisconsin-Madison: One significant event that shaped Madison’s history was the establishment of University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW-Madison). In 1849, Governor Nelson Dewey signed legislation that created this public land-grant university which would become one of the top-ranked universities in the world. The university's presence also contributed to economic growth and development in Madison. It attracted students from all over the country who brought diversity and innovation to the city. As UW-Madison expanded over time with new buildings and programs added; so did its impact on shaping Madison into what it is today. Civil Rights Movement: During much of its early history until well into 20th century; African Americans faced discrimination when trying to buy property or rent homes due to restrictive covenants enforced by real estate agents at that time mostly representing white sellers & landlords who didn't want black neighbors; despite having no legal standing after laws passed during Reconstruction era were struck down by Supreme Court decisions like Buchanan vs Warley (1917) saying local governments couldn't enforce racial zoning ordinances against free blacks buying/renting homes where they wanted nor could private individuals use covenant agreements restricting sales/rentals based on race alone without violating rights granted under Fourteenth Amendment. In 1963, after years of activism and protests by civil rights leaders and organizations such as the NAACP, Madison became the first city in Wisconsin to pass an open housing ordinance. This prohibited discrimination based on race, religion, or national origin in housing sales and rentals. Modern-Day Madison: Today, Madison is a bustling city with a population of over 260,000 people. It has evolved into a hub for education, technology, healthcare, and tourism industries. The University of Wisconsin-Madison remains one of its key institutions providing not only quality education but also contributing to cutting-edge research and innovation. Madison's vibrant downtown area is home to numerous restaurants, shops, theaters, music venues that attract both residents and tourists alike. Its strong community spirit is reflected through various events such as the annual "Freakfest" Halloween celebration where thousands come together to celebrate in costume. Conclusion: Through its rich history from early settlement to modern-day developments; it is evident that Madison has continuously transformed into a thriving city while preserving its natural beauty and strong sense of community. From being chosen as the capital of Wisconsin due to its strategic location between two lakes to becoming a hub for education and innovation; Madison's past serves as a foundation for its present success while also shaping its future growth potential.
Madison, Wisconsin was first inhabited by the Ho-Chunk Native American tribe, who called it "Taychopera," meaning "land of the four lakes." In the early 1800s, French fur traders established a presence in the area and began to trade with the Native Americans. In 1836, James Duane Doty, a federal judge and land speculator, purchased over a thousand acres of land on an isthmus between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. He envisioned this land as the future capital of Wisconsin Territory and named it after President James Madison. The city's growth was slow until Madison was officially designated as the capital of Wisconsin in 1838. The following years saw significant development due to its strategic location for government functions. The University of Wisconsin-Madison (originally called University of Wiskonsan) was also founded in 1849 on this isthmus. Throughout the mid-1800s, Madison experienced rapid growth and became an important center for agriculture, industry, and transportation. It also played a crucial role during the Civil War as many soldiers trained at Camp Randall located near downtown Madison. In addition to being known as a political hub and educational center, Madison also gained recognition as a cultural hotspot by hosting various events such as concerts and lectures at its newly built Capitol Theater in 1917. This continued into the early twentieth century when renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed his famous Monona Terrace Convention Center overlooking Lake Monona. During World War II, Madison's economy shifted towards manufacturing military supplies such as aircraft parts. Afterward, it returned to its agricultural roots but diversified into industries like biotechnology that still thrive today. The civil rights movement had a significant impact on Madison's history during the latter half of the twentieth century. In response to discriminatory housing practices against African Americans living on Williamson Street (known today as Willy Street), activists organized protests and boycotts, leading to the passage of fair housing laws in 1967. In more recent years, Madison has continued to grow and evolve. It is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States due to its vibrant culture, strong economy, and high quality of life. The city also prides itself on being environmentally friendly and sustainable with initiatives like a robust public transportation system and extensive bike paths. Today, Madison continues to be a prosperous capital city known for its beautiful lakeside setting, thriving industries, renowned university, diverse population, and progressive values. Its rich history has shaped it into the vibrant community it is today.
Crestliner is an iconic brand in the boating industry, known for its high-quality aluminum boats. The company has a rich history that dates back to 1946 when it was founded in Madison, Wisconsin. The story of Crestliner begins with two brothers – Julius and James Troll – who immigrated to the United States from Sweden in the early 1900s. They settled in Madison, Wisconsin and started working at a local boat manufacturing company called Larson Boat Works. In 1935, Julius Troll decided to venture out on his own and started a small business called Little Falls Boats. He focused on building wooden fishing boats that were popular among anglers on Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. As time went by, the demand for aluminum boats grew due to their durability and lightweight nature. Recognizing this trend, Julius decided to switch his production from wooden boats to aluminum ones. In 1946, he launched Crestliner as a separate division of Little Falls Boats. The first Crestliner boat was built entirely out of aluminum; even the seats were made of this material instead of wood like most other manufacturers used at the time. This innovation caught the attention of many fishermen who were looking for more durable options. During its early years, Crestliner mainly produced small fishing boats ranging from 12-16 feet long. These models quickly gained popularity among fishermen not only because they were sturdy but also because they came equipped with features such as livewells and rod holders that catered specifically to their needs. In addition to catering to recreational fishermen, Crestliner also provided custom-built workboats for government agencies such as fishery departments and conservation organizations across Wisconsin. As business continued growing steadily over the next decade or so, Crestliner expanded its product line-up by adding bigger models including runabouts and cruisers suitable for family outings on lakes or rivers. By now it had established itself as one of the leading boat manufacturers in the Midwest. In 1961, Crestliner was acquired by Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), a global leader in the marine industry at the time. OMC invested heavily in modernizing Crestliner's production facilities and expanding its distribution network to reach more customers nationwide. Under OMC's ownership, Crestliner experienced significant growth, becoming known for its innovative designs and high-quality materials. The company continued to introduce new models equipped with advanced features such as fiberglass hulls and power tilt steering systems. As technology evolved over the years, so did Crestliner boats. In 1995, it became one of the first boat companies to introduce an aluminum fishing boat with a deep-V design that provided better stability and handling on rough waters. In 2000, Brunswick Corporation acquired OMC and took over operations of Crestliner. This acquisition marked a new era for the company as it gained access to resources from one of the largest marine corporations globally. Today, Crestliner is not only recognized for its sturdy aluminum boats but also for its cutting-edge designs and technological advancements. It continues to expand its product line-up by introducing diverse models suitable for various water activities such as skiing, wakeboarding, cruising or fishing. Despite changes in ownership throughout its history, Crestliner has remained true to its roots – providing quality boats built with durability and innovation at their core. Its commitment to customer satisfaction has earned them numerous awards including being named "The World’s Most Popular Aluminum Fishing Boat" by Motor Boating Magazine multiple times since 2016. In addition to producing top-notch boats, Crestliner has also made significant contributions towards preserving Wisconsin's natural resources through initiatives such as Clean Wake Certification which promotes environmentally friendly boating practices among users. Crestliner remains headquartered in Madison where it all began over seven decades ago. With dealerships across North America and Europe selling their products worldwide today; this once small family business founded in Wisconsin has truly made its mark in the boating industry and left a lasting legacy.
Crestliner is a prominent name in the boating industry, known for its high-quality and durable boats. Founded in 1946, Crestliner has been providing customers with top-of-the-line boats for over 75 years. The company's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship has made it a leader in the market, catering to both recreational and professional boat owners. The history of Crestliner dates back to post-World War II America when aluminum was becoming increasingly popular as a material for building boats. In 1946, two brothers named Willis and Charles Dushek decided to take advantage of this trend by launching their own aluminum boat manufacturing company. They started small, operating out of an old dance hall on the shores of Little Rock Lake in Minnesota. In the early days, Crestliner focused on producing lightweight fishing boats that were easy to transport and maneuver on lakes and rivers. Their innovative designs quickly gained popularity among anglers, leading to steady growth for the company. By the late 1950s, they had expanded their production capabilities and began offering larger models suitable for family outings as well. One of Crestliner's defining moments came in 1962 when they introduced their first welded-seam aluminum boat – a revolutionary technique at that time. This process eliminated leaks commonly associated with riveted seams while also making the boats stronger and more durable than ever before. This development set them apart from other manufacturers who were still using traditional riveting methods. Throughout the decades that followed, Crestliner continued to innovate their designs by incorporating new technologies such as foam-filled hulls for added buoyancy and stability on water surfaces. They also introduced features like livewells (for storing live fish) and rod lockers (to keep fishing rods organized) – making their fishing boats even more desirable among avid anglers. In addition to continuously improving its products' quality over the years, Crestliner has also expanded its product line-up significantly. Today, the company offers a wide range of boats suitable for various water activities such as fishing, cruising, watersports, and more. Their models include aluminum bass boats, walleye boats, pontoon boats, and even luxury fiberglass cruisers. One of Crestliner's most notable achievements in recent years has been its partnership with Brunswick Corporation – one of the world's leading boating companies. In 2005, Brunswick acquired Crestliner to add to their portfolio of well-known brands such as Mercury Marine and Boston Whaler. This acquisition further strengthened Crestliner's position in the market by providing them with access to advanced technologies and resources. Crestliner is also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility through its "Building Better Boats" initiative. The company makes an effort to use eco-friendly materials in their production process while also implementing sustainable practices at their manufacturing facilities. In addition to producing top-quality boats, Crestliner takes pride in providing exceptional customer service. They have a vast network of dealerships across North America that offer sales and support services for customers' convenience. Customers can also customize their boat designs according to their preferences by using the brand's online Build-A-Boat tool. Furthermore, Crestliner has received multiple awards over the years for its innovation and quality products from reputable organizations such as NMMA (National Marine Manufacturers Association) and JD Power – solidifying its reputation as a leader in the boating industry. In conclusion, Crestliner has come a long way since its humble beginnings on Little Rock Lake. From lightweight fishing boats to luxury cruisers – they have continuously evolved while staying true to their commitment towards quality craftsmanship and innovation. With over 75 years of experience under their belt and strong backing from Brunswick Corporation – it is safe to say that Crestliner will continue serving boaters worldwide with top-of-the-line products for many more years to come.