Mercury Marine is a well-known company in the marine industry, recognized for its high-quality boat engines and propellers. The history of Mercury Marine can be traced back to 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing company in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. However, it was not until the early 1960s that Mercury Marine expanded its operations to Arlington, Texas. In the early years of Mercury Marine's existence, the main focus was on producing two-stroke outboard motors for recreational boating. These motors quickly gained popularity due to their reliability and durability. As demand continued to grow, so did the need for expansion and production facilities. In 1961, Mercury Marine acquired an existing plant in Arlington, Texas from West Bend Outboards. This plant had previously been used by West Bend Outboards for manufacturing small air-cooled engines but had become vacant after they moved their operations elsewhere. The acquisition of this facility marked Mercury's first venture into Texas and would later become an integral part of their overall success. The newly acquired facility was initially used primarily for warehousing purposes. However, as demand for outboard motors increased over time, it became apparent that more space was needed to increase production capacity. In 1965-66 significant renovations were made on the property which included adding new buildings such as a foundry and machine shop. With these improvements came an increase in employment opportunities within the local community as well as providing economic growth for Arlington itself. By 1972 there were over one thousand employees at this location alone with hundreds more being added each year afterward. During this period of rapid growth and expansion at the Arlington plant came many changes both within the company itself and in technology advancements utilized by them throughout production processes. One particular breakthrough event during those years occurred in October of 1984 when a groundbreaking ceremony took place marking updates utilizing Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines replacing traditional machining on castings. This new computerized process, which is still used today, takes raw material and forms it to exact specifications by using a series of programming commands. Utilizing this technology in the production process has allowed Mercury Marine to produce more efficient and reliable engines while improving quality control measures. The 1990s marked yet another period of expansion for Mercury Marine's Arlington facility. In 1995 the company broke ground on an additional $8 million expansion project that effectively doubled the size of its plant from its original footprint. This move was made necessary by increased demand for larger horsepower engines as well as keeping up with advancements in technology. One critical factor contributing to Mercury Marine's success throughout these years was its ability to adapt quickly to changing market conditions within the marine industry. The growing trend towards four-stroke outboard motors created challenges for two-stroke manufacturers such as Mercury Marine; however, they were able to adjust their operations accordingly and successfully introduce four-strokes into their product line. In addition to expanding production capabilities at the Arlington location, Mercury also invested heavily in research and development efforts during this time. Advanced technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems were introduced which further improved engine performance and reduced emissions significantly. Today, over fifty years since acquiring West Bend Outboards' facility in Arlington Texas, there are over five thousand employees working at this location producing state-of-the-art boat engines that are shipped worldwide. The site encompasses nearly three hundred acres with most of its buildings covering about six hundred thousand square feet under roof making it one of the largest manufacturing plants operated by Brunswick Corporation (the parent company). Mercury Marine continues investing both resources and capital into developing advanced products through continued innovation following founder Carl Kiekhaefer's legacy who believed "there is always room for improvement." These technological investments have led to numerous patents being awarded over time including several that revolutionized boating safety features. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Arlington, Texas is a testament to the company's commitment to growth and innovation. From its beginnings as a small engine manufacturer in Wisconsin to becoming one of the world's leading producers of marine engines, Mercury Marine has evolved into an iconic brand that continues to push boundaries and set new standards within the industry. The success of the Arlington plant is not only reflected in its production capabilities but also in its impact on the local community, providing employment opportunities and contributing to economic growth for decades. With over 80 years of history behind it, Mercury Marine remains a trusted name among boaters worldwide, and their presence in Arlington will undoubtedly continue to thrive for many more years to come.

Mercury Marine is a well-known and respected company in the marine industry, with a rich history dating back to 1939. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine has become one of the leading manufacturers of outboard motors and boat engines globally. The company was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer, who started his career as an engineer at Evinrude Motors. After working there for several years, he decided to start his own business and revolutionize the boating industry. He purchased a bankrupt engine manufacturing plant in Cedarburg, Wisconsin and renamed it "Kiekhaefer Corporation." In 1940, Kiekhaefer introduced his first product – a two-cylinder outboard motor called "Thunderbolt." This marked the beginning of Mercury Marine's journey towards becoming a household name in the marine world. Throughout the 1940s and '50s, Mercury continued to innovate and introduce new products such as racing boats and high-performance engines. However, it was not until 1955 that Mercury truly made its mark on the industry with its introduction of "Mark 75" – an inline six-cylinder outboard motor that set new standards for powerboat performance. The Mark series became so popular that it remained in production until 1986. Over the next few decades, Mercury Marine expanded its product line beyond just outboard motors. It began producing stern drives (inboard/outboard engines) in collaboration with Ford Motor Company's V8 blocks. By doing so, they were able to offer more powerful engines while also reducing their costs significantly. In addition to expanding its product range, Mercury also focused on improving its technology over time. In 1961 they launched "Mercruiser," which combined both sterndrive technology with hydraulic shifting systems – making boating easier and more convenient for users. As demand for recreational boating increased during this period due to economic growth and the rise of leisure activities, Mercury Marine was well-positioned to capitalize on this trend. The company continued to innovate and introduce new products such as power steering systems, four-stroke engines, and electronic fuel injection. By the 1980s, Mercury Marine had become a global brand with manufacturing facilities in Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America. In 1998 they became part of Brunswick Corporation – a leading manufacturer of recreational boats and marine engines. Today, Mercury Marine is recognized as one of the most respected brands in the industry. They offer a wide range of products including outboard motors for small boats all the way up to large yachts. Their product line also includes sterndrives, propellers, controls & rigging systems, gauges & displays, boat parts & accessories. One of their latest innovations is "Joystick Piloting" – an advanced control system that allows users to easily maneuver their boat using just one joystick instead of multiple levers and switches. This technology has revolutionized boating by making it more user-friendly for both experienced boaters and beginners alike. In addition to its focus on innovation and technology advancements over the years, Mercury Marine has also been committed to sustainability initiatives. In 2012 they launched "Mercury SeaPro" – an environmentally friendly engine designed specifically for commercial fishing vessels that are required to meet strict emission standards. Furthermore

Mercury Marine has a long and storied history in Arlington, Texas. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who had previously worked at the Outboard Motors Corporation before starting his own business. Originally called Kiekhaefer Mercury, the company began producing outboard motors for recreational boating. In 1950, Mercury Marine opened its first facility in Arlington to produce outboard motors on a larger scale. This marked the beginning of their presence in the city that would continue to grow over the years. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, Mercury Marine experienced significant growth and success with their products. They expanded their product line to include sterndrive engines as well as outboard motors and became known for their high-quality performance engines. In 1961, Mercury Marine relocated its headquarters from Wisconsin to Irving, Texas - just outside of Arlington. This move allowed them to be closer to their production facilities and take advantage of Texas' favorable business climate. As demand for marine engines continued to increase throughout the decades, so did Mercury's operations in Arlington. In addition to expanding their manufacturing capabilities at their original facility, they also built a new state-of-the-art research and development center adjacent to it in 1972. In the following years, Mercury continued innovating and introducing new technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems for marine engines. These advancements helped solidify their reputation as one of the top manufacturers in the industry. However, like many other companies during this time period, mercury faced challenges due to economic downturns. In response, they adapted by diversifying into different markets such as automotive components and even aerospace technology while still maintaining focus on marine engine production. Despite these challenges over time,Mercry maintained its commitmentto innovationand excellencein engineering.That paid off whenthe companywas acquiredby Brunswick Corporationin1998.This partnershipallowedMercuryMarine tounleash its fullpotential, and theycontinued to expandin Arlingtonby buildinga new corporateheadquartersand a manufacturingfacility. Today, Mercury Marine's presence in Arlington is a vital part of the city's economy. With over 1,500 employees and a production capacity of over 200,000 engines per year, their facilities are among the largest employers in the area. In addition to their economic impact, Mercury Marine also has a strong commitment to community involvement. They have partnered with local organizations such as the YMCA to provide education and job training opportunities for young adults interested in pursuing careers in manufacturing. Furthermore, Mercury Marine has been recognized for their efforts towards sustainability and environmental stewardship. Their engines meet strict emissions standards set by both state and federal regulations and they have implemented eco-friendly practices at their facilities. Overall, Mercury Marine's history in Arlington showcases not only their success as a company but also their dedication to innovation, quality products,and making positive contributions to the local community. As they continue to grow and thrive in Texas' business-friendly environment,MercuryMarine will remain an important playerinthe marine industryfor years toe come.

Arlington, Texas is a vibrant and diverse city located in the heart of North Texas. With a rich history and a thriving economy, Arlington has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States. From its humble beginnings as a small farming community to its current status as a major metropolitan center, Arlington has undergone significant growth and transformation over the years. History: The area that is now known as Arlington was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes such as the Wichita, Caddo, and Comanche. In 1841, Texan colonist Colonel Middleton Tate Johnson established a trading post on what is now known as Johnson Creek. This eventually led to settlements forming around this trading post and in 1876; it officially became incorporated under the name "Arlington." The city was named after General Robert E. Lee's home in Virginia. In its early years, Arlington was primarily an agricultural town with cotton being its main crop. However, with the arrival of railroads in the late 1800s and early 1900s, there was an increase in industrialization which brought more jobs to the area. By mid-20th century, Arlington had become home to several manufacturing plants producing products ranging from automobiles to aircraft parts. Economy: Today, Arlington's economy is driven by several industries including healthcare services, education institutions such as University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), entertainment (including Six Flags Over Texas amusement park), tourism (home to AT&T Stadium - home field for Dallas Cowboys) among others. One notable company headquartered in Arlington is General Motors Assembly Plant which employs thousands of residents within Tarrant County area alone. Education: As mentioned earlier UTA plays an important role not just economically but also academically within city limits offering both undergraduate programs and graduate degrees across multiple fields including engineering & social sciences amongst others. Additionally, there are numerous public school districts serving students from kindergarten to 12th grade, as well as private schools and charter schools. Arlington is also home to the Tarrant County College Southeast Campus, offering a wide range of associate degrees and vocational programs. Culture and Recreation: Arlington offers a diverse array of cultural experiences for its residents and visitors alike. The city is known for hosting several festivals throughout the year, such as the Texas Scottish Festival & Highland Games, Levitt Pavilion Summer Concert Series, and the South Street Art Festival. In addition to these events, Arlington also has many recreational opportunities including parks, trails, golf courses, and lakes. One of the most popular outdoor destinations in Arlington is River Legacy Parks which spans over 1,300 acres along Trinity River with biking/hiking trails and picnic areas. Another notable attraction is Lake Arlington offering fishing spots/boat rentals near Downtown area. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy professional sports games at AT&T Stadium (home to Dallas Cowboys), Globe Life Park (home to Texas Rangers), or catch a game at UTA's Maverick Stadium. For those who prefer indoor activities can visit one of America’s largest indoor waterparks - Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark located within Grand Prairie/Arlington border. Community: One major aspect that sets Arlington apart from other cities is its strong sense of community. Despite being a large metropolitan center with over 400 thousand residents; it continues to maintain small-town charm through various community events like neighborhood block parties/fairs hosted by local civic organizations/churches/schools etc., allowing people from different backgrounds to come together and form lasting relationships. Additionally; there are numerous non-profit organizations dedicated towards uplifting low-income communities within city limits providing food/clothing assistance along with job training/placement services helping families achieve financial stability while promoting self-sufficiency. Conclusion: In conclusion, Arlington has evolved into an exciting destination filled with rich history rooted in agriculture but now thriving on diversity/economic growth alongside a strong sense of community. It offers something for everyone - from sports fans to nature enthusiasts, from young families to retirees. Arlington continues to attract people from all walks of life with its promising opportunities and welcoming atmosphere making it an ideal place to call home.

Introduction Mercury Marine is one of the leading manufacturers and distributors of marine propulsion systems in the world. Founded in 1939, it has a rich history that spans over eight decades. The company has evolved from building small wooden runabouts to producing high-performance outboard motors and sterndrives for recreational, commercial, and government applications. In this paper, we will delve into the history of Mercury Marine and how it became a global leader in marine propulsion. Early Years (1939-1945) The inception of Mercury Marine dates back to 1939 when Carl Kiekhaefer purchased an old bankrupt manufacturing plant in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. At that time, Kiekhaefer's primary business was supplying magnetic separators to dairy farms. However, his fascination with engineering led him to experiment with various products such as chainsaws and lawn mowers. In 1940, he received an order from Montgomery Ward for six outboard engines designed by Evinrude Motors Company. This opportunity sparked his interest in boat motors, and he began making improvements on the design while also developing his own line of engines under the name "Thor" - named after the Norse god of thunder. During World War II (1941-1945), Mercury Marine shifted its focus from recreational boats to military contracts due to material shortages caused by war efforts. They produced propellers for PT boats used by Allied forces during the war. Expansion (1946-1960) After WWII ended, Mercury Marine turned its attention back to recreational boating as demand increased significantly due to returning soldiers' desire for leisure activities. In 1950 they introduced their first complete line-up of outboard motors ranging from four horsepower up to sixty-five horsepower. By then end of the decade , Mercury had established itself as a major player in the industry with annual sales reaching $3 million dollars. Innovation & Competition (1961-1979) The 1960s marked a decade of innovation for Mercury Marine. In 1961, they introduced the first V-6 engine for outboard motors, which provided more power and better performance compared to traditional in-line engines. This groundbreaking design revolutionized the boating industry and set a new standard for marine propulsion. However, this period also saw increased competition from other manufacturers such as OMC (Outboard Marine Corporation) and Brunswick Corporation's Mercury Outboards division. To stay ahead of the competition, Mercury continued to innovate by introducing electronic ignition systems and stainless steel propellers. In 1964, Carl Kiekhaefer sold his company to Brunswick Corporation due to health concerns. Under new ownership, Mercury expanded its product line with stern drives - an inboard motor mounted on top of an outdrive unit that could be steered like an outboard motor. Global Expansion & Diversification (1980-1998) In the 1980s and early 1990s, Mercury Marine experienced significant growth through global expansion. They established manufacturing facilities in countries such as Mexico, Belgium, Italy, Japan, Australia ,and New Zealand to meet increasing demand worldwide. During this time period ,Mercury also diversified their products beyond just recreational boats .They began producing engines for commercial applications such as fishing boats ,charter fleets ,and government-owned vessels . Furthermore ,they made strategic acquisitions including Sea Ray Boats in 1986 and Boston Whaler in 1997 – both well-known brands within the marine industry. Environmental Responsibility & Sustainability (1999-Present) As environmental concerns rose globally at the turn of the century ,Mercury Marine took responsibility by developing advanced technologies that reduced emissions while maintaining high-performance standards .In 2004 they launched "OptiMax" - a two-stroke direct-injection technology that significantly decreased fuel consumption and emissions compared to traditional carbureted engines . In 2009, Mercury introduced "Verado" - a four-stroke outboard motor that was quieter, more fuel-efficient and produced fewer emissions than its two-stroke counterparts. This technology set the benchmark for environmentally-friendly marine propulsion systems. Today, Mercury Marine continues to be a leader in innovation with their latest release of the "V-8 FourStroke" engine series - offering even better performance and efficiency while meeting strict environmental regulations. Conclusion From its humble beginnings as a small manufacturing plant in Wisconsin ,Mercury Marine has grown into a global powerhouse within the marine industry .Through continuous innovation ,expansion ,and diversification they have become synonymous with high-performance and reliability .With an unwavering commitment towards sustainability and environmental responsibility ,Mercury remains at the forefront of developing cutting-edge technologies that will shape the future of marine propulsion systems for generations to come .

Mercury Marine is an American company that specializes in the production of marine engines and accessories. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, who initially named it "Kiekhaefer Corporation." The name was later changed to "Mercury Marine" as a nod to the Roman god Mercury, known for his speed and agility. The early years of Mercury Marine were marked by innovation and growth. In 1940, Kiekhaefer introduced the first commercially successful outboard motor called the “Wizard.” This lightweight two-cylinder engine quickly gained popularity among boaters due to its reliability and performance. During World War II, Mercury Marine shifted its focus from recreational boating to supporting the war effort. The company produced motors for military boats and also developed a line of small generators used on airplanes. After the war ended, Mercury Marine returned to producing marine engines for recreational use. They continued their tradition of innovation with the introduction of several new products such as electric starters and remote steering controls. In 1953, Mercury Marine made a bold move by entering into boat racing competitions. Their engines quickly gained recognition for their speed and power on the race track. By 1962, Mercury had won every major national championship in outboard powerboat racing. The 1970s saw significant expansion for Mercury Marine as they acquired other companies such as Thunderbolt Products (a manufacturer of stern drives) and Apollo Boats (a fiberglass boat builder). This allowed them to offer complete packages including boats, engines, propellers, controls, rigging systems,and more. Throughout the following decades, Mercury Marine continued expanding its product lines through acquisitions while also developing new technologies in marine propulsion systems. They launched their first four-stroke outboard engine in 2004 which offered lower emissions compared to traditional two-stroke models. Today,MercuryMarineisoneofthelargestandmostdiversifiedmanufacturersofmarineproductsintheworld.Theyhaveamarketshareofover40%intheUnitedStatesandarepresentinmorethan100countries.MercuryMarinehasafulllineofoutboardengines,rangingfrom2.5to400horsepower,aswellasstern-drives,jetdrives,andpropellers. In recent years, Mercury Marine has also focused on developing environmentally friendly marine engines. In 2011, they launched the first propane-powered outboard engine which reduces emissions by 30% compared to gasoline engines. They have also introduced a line of electric propulsion systems for boats. Mercury Marine's commitment to innovation and quality has earned them numerous awards and recognition over the years. In 2019, they were named Manufacturer of the Year by the National Marine Manufacturers Association for their product design, customer satisfaction, and community outreach efforts. Today,MercuryMarineremainsattheforefrontofthemarineindustrywiththeirstate-of-the-artfacilitiesandcontinuedfocusonresearchanddevelopment.Thecompanycontinuestobuildonitsrichhistorybyprovidinghigh-quality,reliable,andinnovativemarineenginesforboatersaroundtheworld.

Arlington, Texas is a city steeped in history and rich with stories of growth, change, and resilience. Located within the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area, Arlington has evolved from a small frontier settlement to a bustling urban center that attracts tourists and residents alike. Native American tribes such as the Caddo, Comanche, and Wichita were the first inhabitants of what is now known as Arlington. These tribes lived off the land for thousands of years before European settlers arrived in the early 1800s. The first recorded European presence in Arlington was in 1841 when Republic President Mirabeau B. Lamar sent an expedition to survey the area for potential settlements. The survey party found fertile land along Trinity River and named it "Arlington" after General Robert E. Lee's home in Virginia. In 1853, Reverend Andrew Shannon Hayter established a trading post near present-day Main Street and Abram Street. This trading post served as a stopover point for travelers heading westward on their journey through Texas. It also attracted more settlers to the area who saw its potential for trade and commerce. During this time period, conflicts between Native Americans and white settlers were common throughout Texas. In response to these tensions, Fort Bird (later renamed Fort Worth) was built near present-day downtown Arlington in 1849 by Colonel Middleton Tate Johnson of the U.S Army's Second Dragoons Regiment. The fort provided protection to nearby settlements from Native American attacks until it was abandoned in 1853 due to lack of funding from Congress. However, its legacy lives on today through street names like Cooper Street (named after Major Samuel Wragg Ferguson Cooper who commanded Fort Bird) and Division Street (named after Captain George Dashiell Bayard who led soldiers during battles against Native Americans). By late 1800s-early 1900s,Arlington had become an agricultural hub with cotton being the main crop. This boom in agriculture led to the construction of railroads, which connected Arlington to other cities and allowed for easier transportation of goods. The arrival of a cotton gin in 1867 further propelled economic growth in Arlington. The town's population grew from 50 residents in the early 1870s to over 250 by the late 1880s. In addition, businesses such as banks, schools, and churches were established during this time period. In 1876,Arlington was officially incorporated as a city with an elected mayor and five aldermen. The first mayor was Colonel Henry Clay Daggett who also owned one of the largest cotton plantations in North Texas. However, it wasn't until major events like World War I that Arlington experienced significant growth and development. In response to increased demand for military supplies during WWI, local industries began producing ammunition and weapons leading to a surge in jobs and population growth. During this time period, several prominent families moved into Arlington including Tom Vandergriff whose family owned a meatpacking business that supplied beef to soldiers during WWI. His grandson,Tom Vandergriff Jr., would later become mayor ofArlingtonand spearhead efforts for economic development through sports tourism (more on this later). After WWI,Arlington saw continued expansion with new businesses opening up along Abram Street (the main commercial street at that time). However,the Great Depression hit hard,and many businesses struggled or closed down entirely. It wasn't until after World War II when industrialization took off again,in part due to President Franklin D.Roosevelt's New Deal program which provided funding for public works projects aimed at stimulating economic recovery. One such project was Camp Wolters,a U.S Army training base located near present-day Lake Worth.Founded in1941,it served as an important training center throughout WWII.Among its notable trainees were Elvis Presley who received basic training there in 1958 and Audie Murphy,one of the most decorated American soldiers of WWII. In 1954,Arlington's economy took another leap with the opening of General Motors' Arlington Assembly Plant. The plant provided thousands of jobs and contributed significantly to the city's growth until its closure in 1990. But as one industry declined,another emerged. In1961,the Washington Senators baseball team moved from Washington D.C.toArlingtonand became the Texas Rangers. This marked a turning point for the city as it started to shift towards becoming a major sports destination. The early1970s saw more changes forArlingtonwith two major attractions opening up: Six Flags OverTexasamusement park and The Universityof Texas at Arlington (UTA). These developments brought in tourists,sporting events,and educational opportunities,reinforcingArlingtonas a diverse and thriving community. Throughout the1980s-1990s,Arlingtoncontinued to grow with new residential areas,shopping centers,and entertainment venues being built such as Hurricane Harbor waterpark (1983)and AT&T Stadium(formerly Cowboys Stadium)(2009). Today,Arlington is home to over 400,000 residents and attracts millions of visitors each year. It is known for its vibrant sports scene with professional teams like Dallas Cowboys football team,Texas Rangers baseball team,Dallas Wings women's basketball team,and Dallas Renegades XFL football team all calling it home. In addition,Arlington hosts several annual events including the State Fair Classic college football game between Grambling State UniversityandPrairie View A&M University;the International Bowling Campus which houses headquarters for multiple bowling organizations;and College Park Center,a multi-purpose arena that hosts concerts,sporting events,and UTA's basketball games. As we look back on Arlington's history,it is clear that this once small frontier settlement has come a long way thanks to its strategic location,economic opportunities,and the determination and resilience of its residents. With ongoing developments and plans for future growth,Arlington continues to evolve while staying true to its roots as a city with a rich history and promising future.

Arlington, Texas has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1800s. It was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo and Wichita people, who utilized its fertile land for hunting and agriculture. In 1841, Republic of Texas President Sam Houston signed an order establishing Arlington as a trading post on the border between Anglo-American settlers and Native Americans. The town was named after Robert E. Lee's home in Virginia, which also served as a military academy at the time. During the mid-19th century, Arlington became known for its cotton farming industry. The city’s location near major rivers made it an ideal spot for transportation of goods to other parts of Texas. This led to economic growth and development in the area. In 1876, Arlington officially became incorporated as a city with a population of around 400 residents. However, it wasn’t until later in the century when significant progress was made in terms of infrastructure development such as roads and bridges. One notable event in Arlington’s history occurred in 1917 when Six Flags Over Texas opened its doors as one of America's first theme parks. It quickly became one of Arlington’s top attractions drawing thousands of visitors each year. The discovery of oil during this time also contributed greatly to Arlington’s economic growth. In fact, by World War II, it had become one of the largest areas producing natural gas throughout all North America. Another pivotal moment came with the establishment of General Motors’ assembly plant in 1954 which brought about job opportunities for many residents and boosted local economy significantly over several decades. However, perhaps what truly put Arlington on the map was becoming home to two major professional sports teams – Dallas Cowboys football team (1965)and Texas Rangers baseball team (1972). These franchises have brought national attention to not only their respective sports but also raised awareness about Arlington itself through hosting high-profile events such as Super Bowl and World Series games. Today, Arlington has grown into a bustling city with a population of over 400,000. It continues to be a hub for sports, entertainment, and business with the presence of major corporations like AT&T and American Airlines. Additionally, its location between Dallas and Fort Worth makes it an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience all that North Texas has to offer. Arlington’s history is one of resilience, growth, and adaptation. From its humble beginnings as a trading post to becoming one of the largest cities in Texas, it has continuously evolved while still holding onto its strong roots in agriculture and energy production. As the city continues to develop and expand, it is important to remember and honor its rich history that shaped it into what it is today.

The history of Mercury Marine in Arlington, Texas dates back to 1953 when the company first opened its doors as a small manufacturing plant. Over the years, it has grown into one of the largest and most successful marine engine manufacturers in the world. Mercury Marine was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer, a skilled engineer and entrepreneur who had previously worked for Outboard Motors Corporation. He started his own company with just a handful of employees and a vision to create high-quality, durable engines for boats. In 1953, Mercury Marine established its first production facility in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. However, due to increasing demand for their products, they needed to expand their operations to keep up with production needs. This led them to open another facility in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin in 1960. As the company continued to grow and expand its product line, they recognized the need for additional manufacturing facilities outside of Wisconsin. In 1971, Mercury Marine acquired an existing boat manufacturing plant located on East Division Street in Arlington from Lone Star Boats Inc. This new facility became known as "Plant Two" and focused primarily on producing stern drive components such as gears and shafts. At this time, Plant Two employed around 500 workers but soon grew to become one of the largest employers in Arlington with over 2,000 employees by the end of that decade. By this point in time,Mercury Marine had already gained recognition as an industry leader through innovative designs such as their "Tower Of Power" six-cylinder outboard motor which was introduced at Boat Show Trade Association (BOSTA) show held annually at McCormick Place Convention Center Chicago Illinois during February each year.The powerplant produced over two hundred horsepower (hp), setting speed records within months after launching it onto showroom floors nationwide. In addition to expanding its manufacturing operations across multiple locations including Florida and Oklahoma,Mercury Marine also invested heavily into research and development. This allowed the company to continuously improve and innovate their products, staying ahead of competitors in the marine engine industry. In 1985, Mercury Marine once again expanded its operations in Arlington with the opening of "Plant Four." This new facility was built on a 10-acre site adjacent to Plant Two and focused on producing larger engines for recreational boats. Throughout the 1990s, Mercury Marine continued to see success and growth. They launched several new products including their OptiMax direct fuel injection technology which revolutionized two-stroke outboard motors by providing better fuel economy, increased power, and lower emissions. The early 2000s brought about some challenges for Mercury Marine as they faced competition from other manufacturers who were also trying to develop similar technologies. However, through strategic partnerships and investments in research and development,Mercury Marine was able to stay ahead of the curve. In recent years,Mercury Marine has continued to expand its presence in Arlington with additional facilities such as Plant Five which opened in 2011. This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated solely to manufacturing high-performance racing engines for boat races around the world. Today,Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac but continues to maintain a strong presence in Arlington with over 3 million square feet of manufacturing space spread across multiple facilities. The company employs over 6,000 people worldwide with an estimated economic impact of over $4 billion annually. As one of Arlington's top employers,Mercury Marine has had a significant impact on both the local economy and community.This includes supporting various charitable organizations such as Habitat for Humanity,Fish For Life,and Junior Achievement.Additionally,the company has been recognized numerous times by Texas Governor Rick Perry for their contributions towards job creation,economic growth,and philanthropic efforts within the state. In conclusion,the history of Mercury Marine's operations in Arlington,Texas showcases not only how this small business grew into an international powerhouse,but also how it has positively impacted the local community. With a continued focus on innovation and commitment to excellence,Mercury Marine is sure to remain a dominant player in the marine engine industry for years to come.

Mercury Marine is a company that has been at the forefront of marine propulsion and technology for over 80 years. Founded in 1939 by engineer Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has grown from a small outboard motor manufacturer to one of the largest and most respected marine companies in the world. The Early Years: In its early days, Mercury was known as "Kiekhaefer Corporation" and produced specialized racing engines for boats. However, it wasn't until World War II that the company shifted its focus to producing outboard motors for recreational boating. During this time, they also developed a reputation for high-performance engines and won several races with their innovative designs. Innovation: One of Mercury's key strengths throughout its history has been its commitment to innovation and pushing boundaries in the marine industry. In the late 1950s, they introduced their first two-stroke engine which became an industry standard due to its increased power and efficiency compared to traditional four-stroke engines. Throughout the following decades, Mercury continued to pioneer new technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems, which improved engine performance while reducing emissions. They also introduced direct fuel-injection (DFI) engines in 1996 - a world-first at that time - providing even more efficient fuel consumption. Today, Mercury continues to lead with innovation by developing new technologies such as joystick piloting systems, active trim control, and digital throttle & shift controls - all designed to enhance boating experience with greater precision and ease of use. Product Range: Over the years, Mercury Marine has expanded its product range significantly beyond just outboard motors. Today they offer a wide variety of products including sterndrives (inboard-outboards), propellers, inflatable boats under their "Quicksilver" brand name, and boat accessories such as gauges and controls through their "Mercury Precision Parts" division. Their expansive product line caters to a diverse range of boaters - from recreational users to professional fishermen and racing enthusiasts. With engines ranging from 2.5hp to over 400hp, Mercury has an engine for almost every type of boat. Environmental Stewardship: In recent years, there has been a growing focus on the environmental impact of marine engines. In response, Mercury Marine has taken steps to become a leader in environmentally responsible practices within the industry. They were one of the first companies in their sector to achieve ISO 14001 certification for environmental management systems and have made significant investments in research and development to design cleaner-burning engines with reduced emissions. They also have initiatives in place to reduce waste and energy consumption in their manufacturing processes. Community Involvement: Mercury Marine is not just committed to producing high-quality products but also believes in giving back to the community. The company supports various charitable organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, American Red Cross, and United Way through donations and volunteer work by its employees. Another notable initiative by Mercury Marine is their "Angling Education" program which aims at educating young anglers about conservation practices while promoting fishing as a healthy outdoor activity. Global Presence: From its humble beginnings in Wisconsin, USA, Mercury Marine has expanded globally with operations across Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa regions. Their widespread network ensures that customers worldwide can access quality service support wherever they are located. Partnerships: Over the years, Mercury Marine has formed strategic partnerships with other leading companies within the marine industry such as Brunswick Corporation (owner of well-known brands such as Boston Whaler and Sea Ray) and Cummins Inc., which provides diesel engines for larger boats under the 'MerCruiser' brand name. These collaborations have allowed them access deeper resources resulting in enhanced product offerings while maintaining high standards that customers associate with Mercury brand name Conclusion: In conclusion, Mercury Marine's long-standing reputation for innovation, quality, and community involvement has solidified its position as a leader in the marine industry. With a diverse product range, global presence, and commitment to environmental stewardship, Mercury Marine continues to be a driving force behind advancements in marine propulsion technology. As we enter into an era of increased focus on sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices, Mercury is well-positioned to continue leading the way with their dedication to producing high-performance engines while minimizing their impact on the environment. We can expect to see even more exciting developments from this iconic company in the years ahead.