Mercury Marine has a long and storied history in Grand Prairie, Texas. The company, which specializes in the manufacturing of boat engines and marine propulsion systems, has been a staple of the Grand Prairie community for over 50 years. The roots of Mercury Marine's presence in Grand Prairie can be traced back to 1965 when the company acquired an existing plant from Aerojet-General Corporation. This facility was originally built in 1949 as part of a government contract to produce rocket engines during World War II. However, after the war ended, Aerojet-General repurposed the plant to manufacture jet engine components. When Mercury Marine took over this facility, they began producing their own line of outboard motors for recreational boating. The timing couldn't have been more perfect as the demand for leisure boating was on the rise in America during this time period. With its prime location near major waterways such as Lake Ray Hubbard and Joe Pool Lake, Grand Prairie proved to be an ideal spot for Mercury Marine's production operations. Over the next few decades, Mercury Marine continued to expand its operations in Grand Prairie with new buildings being added and upgrades made to existing facilities. In fact, by 1986, it had become one of the largest employers in Grand Prairie with over 1,000 employees working at its plants. In addition to providing jobs for local residents and contributing significantly to the city's economy through tax revenue and other investments, Mercury Marine also played an important role in supporting various community initiatives throughout its tenure in Grand Prairie. For example, during Hurricane Katrina in 2005 – which caused widespread destruction along much of Gulf Coast region – Mercury Marine stepped up by donating boats equipped with their advanced outboard motors that were used by rescue workers helping those affected by storm surge flooding along Galveston Bay and surrounding areas. Furthermore,MercuryMarinehasalsohadadirectimpactontheboatingsceneinGrandPrairieandtheDallas-FortWorthmetroplex. The company has been an active participant in local boat shows and events, showcasing their latest innovations and promoting boating as a recreational activity. In 2014, Mercury Marine made a significant investment in its Grand Prairie operations with the opening of a new $10 million facility dedicated to producing high-performance racing engines. This state-of-the-art facility allowed for increased production capacity and further solidified the company's commitment to the Grand Prairie community. However, like many other industries, Mercury Marine faced challenges during the economic recession of 2008-2009. The decline in demand for luxury items such as boats led to workforce reductions at its plants in Grand Prairie and across the country. Despite this setback, Mercury Marine remained committed to its operations in Grand Prairie and continued investing in new technologies and products. Today, with over 1,800 employees working at its facilities in Grand Prairie, Mercury Marine remains one of the largest employers in the city. Its presence also attracts other marine-related businesses to set up shop nearby, creating a thriving industry that benefits both residents and visitors alike. In addition to providing employment opportunities and contributing significantly to the local economy through tax revenue and investments,MercruyMarinealso plays an important rolein supporting various community initiatives throughoutits historyinGrandPrairie.Through partnerships with local organizations,MercuryMarinehasbeeninvolvedinnumerouscharitableactivities,suchasprovidingfundingfor educational programs focused on water safetyanddonatingboatequipmenttofirstrespondersandlawenforcementagencies.These efforts have helped strengthen ties betweenMercuryMarineandthecommunity,andhaveearnedthecompanyareputationasanengagedcorporatecitizenwithinGrandPrairie. Furthermore,MercruyMarine'spresencehasnotonlybenefittedthecommunity,butithasalsoplayedanimportantroleinthedevelopmentofthetechnologicalandinnovativeaspectsoftheboatingindustry.Withitsstate-of-the-artfacilitiesandinvestmentinnewtechnologies,MercruyMarinehasbeenatthe forefrontofadvancingmarinepropulsionsystemsandsafetyfeaturesforrecreationalboats. The company's commitmenttoR&D hasledtoreleaseofa wide range of products,including high-performanceengines and environmentally-friendlyoutboardmotors. Oneexampleisthecompany'srecentlaunch of thefirst-evergasolineDirectInjectionoutboardmotor.Thisrevolutionarytechnologyprovidesbetterfuel efficiency,loweremissions,andincreasedpowercomparedtoconventionalcarburetedengines.ThismajorbreakthroughshowcasedMercruyMarine'sdedicationtocreatingcutting-edgetechnologiesthatnotonlyenhancetheboatingexperiencebutalsoprotecttheenvironment. Insummary,MercruyMarinehasmadeanindeliblemarkonGrandPrairiewithitslonghistoryinthecity.Fromcreatingjobopportunitiestosupportingcommunityinitiativesanddrivinginnovationintheboatingindustry,theimpactofMercruyMarinecannotbeoverstated. Itscommitmenttosustainability,partnershipswithlocalorganizations,andongoingeffortstoenhancewater safetyhaveearneditarespectedpositionwithinthecommunity. Asweenteranewdecade,Mercury Marinecontinuestoleadthewayinbringingexcitingandadvancedtechnologiestotheworldofrecreational boatingwhilemaintainingstrongtieswithitsrootsinGrand Prairie,Texas.

Mercury Marine is a world-renowned company that specializes in the manufacturing of boat engines and propellers. Founded in 1939, the company has become synonymous with high-quality marine products and innovation. Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation. The company employs over 6,000 people globally and has production facilities in several countries including the United States, Belgium, China, Mexico, and New Zealand. One of the key factors behind Mercury Marine's success is its commitment to research and development. The company invests heavily in developing new technologies to improve performance and fuel efficiency of its products. This dedication to innovation has allowed them to stay ahead of their competitors for decades. The history of Mercury Marine can be traced back to Carl Kiekhaefer who founded the Kiekhaefer Corporation (later renamed Mercury) after purchasing an outboard motor business from E.L Thorndike. Initially focused on building motors for commercial fishing boats, Kiekhaefer quickly realized there was a demand for smaller motors for recreational boating. In 1940 he introduced his first consumer outboard motor which was an instant hit among boaters. During World War II, Mercury Marine played a crucial role by supplying thousands of outboard motors to the US Navy. After the war ended, they resumed producing recreational boat engines but also expanded into other markets such as snowmobiles and lawn mowers. In 1961 when Carl Kiekhaefer retired from his position as President at Mercury Marine due to health issues; it marked a turning point for the company's future direction under new leadership. The next few decades saw tremendous growth as they continued expanding their product line while also acquiring other marine companies such as Mariner Outboards (1977), Force Outboards (1984), MotorGuide Trolling Motors (1992) and Quicksilver Propellers(2003). In 2005, Mercury Marine became a division of Brunswick Corporation. This partnership has been beneficial for both companies as they have been able to combine their expertise and resources to create cutting-edge marine products. One of the most significant milestones for Mercury Marine was the introduction of the Verado outboard engine in 2004. This four-stroke supercharged engine revolutionized boating with its advanced technology, quiet operation, and impressive performance. It quickly became one of the best-selling outboard engines in the market. Mercury Marine's product line includes a range of outboard motors from small portable engines to high-performance racing engines. They also manufacture sterndrive engines, diesel inboards, propellers, parts & accessories and offer digital controls and gauges for enhanced boating experience. The company has received several awards for its exceptional products such as being named "Manufacturer Of The Year" by Boating Industry magazine multiple times. In addition to this recognition from industry experts; consumers have also shown their loyalty towards Mercury Marine with many boat owners choosing their products over competitors due to their reliability and outstanding performance. Apart from producing top-of-the-line marine products, Mercury Marine is also committed to environmental sustainability. They are constantly looking for ways to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency in their engines while complying with all environmental regulations. Another aspect that sets Mercury Marine apart is its strong customer service culture. The company offers comprehensive training programs for dealerships on how to properly install and maintain their products; ensuring customers receive top-notch support when needed. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on technology-based solutions in various industries including marine engineering. To keep up with these advancements, Mercury Marine launched "SmartCraft", an integrated system that connects all aspects of a boat's propulsion system into one user-friendly interface providing real-time data about fuel consumption rate, speed control options and much more. Moreover, they have also embraced digital marketing strategies which include creating an online presence through their website and social media channels, allowing potential customers to learn more about the company and its products. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's dedication to innovation, commitment towards providing exceptional customer service, and focus on sustainability have contributed significantly to its success in the marine industry. With over 80 years of history behind them, they continue to lead the way with cutting-edge technologies and a wide range of high-quality products that cater to the needs of boaters worldwide. As for the future, we can only expect further advancements from this iconic company as they strive to remain at the forefront of marine engineering.

Mercury Marine has a rich history in Grand Prairie, Texas that dates back to 1961 when the company established its first manufacturing facility in the city. Today, Mercury Marine is one of the leading manufacturers of marine engines and propulsion systems in Grand Prairie and has played an important role in shaping the local economy. In 1957, Carl Kiekhaefer founded Mercury Marine with his innovative outboard engine design. The company quickly gained popularity for its high-performance engines and became a major player in the boating industry. In order to meet increasing demand for their products, Mercury Marine expanded their operations to Grand Prairie, Texas in 1961. The new plant was strategically located near Lake Arlington, which provided easy access for testing and developing new products. At this time, there were only about 50 employees working at the facility but over time it grew into one of the largest employers in Grand Prairie. By the late 1970s, Mercury Marine had become a household name among boaters across North America due to its quality products and commitment to innovation. This led to further expansion of their facilities in Grand Prairie as they continued to introduce new technologies such as electronic fuel injection systems and sterndrive engines. Throughout the decades, Mercury Marine continued to invest heavily in research and development at their Grand Prairie location. This resulted in numerous advancements including digital controls for boat motors and environmentally friendly four-stroke outboards. In addition to producing state-of-the-art marine engines, Mercury Marine also made significant contributions towards improving water quality around Lake Arlington through various conservation efforts. They partnered with local organizations like Keep America Beautiful – Fort Worth/Arlington chapter on initiatives such as shoreline cleanups and installing trash receptacles along popular fishing spots. Today, after more than five decades since establishing its presence in Grand Prairie,Texas;MercuryMarine remains committed to providing high-quality marine propulsion systems while also being an active member ofthe community. The company continues to invest in local initiatives and charities, including sponsoring youth boating programs and supporting educational opportunities for students interested in marine technology. In 2014, Mercury Marine celebrated its 75th anniversary with a special event at their Grand Prairie facility. This milestone was marked by the production of over six million engines since the company's inception. As one of the leading employers in Grand Prairie, Mercury Marine has helped boost the local economy by providing jobs and contributing to economic growth. Their commitment to innovation has also made them a global leader in marine propulsion systems, with their products being used by boaters all around the world. Overall, Mercury Marine's history in Grand Prairie is one of success and community involvement. From humble beginnings with just 50 employees to now employing hundreds at their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility, they have played an integral role in shaping both the local economy and boating industry as a whole.

Grand Prairie, Texas is a vibrant and growing city located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. With a population of over 200,000 residents, it is the fifteenth largest city in Texas and continues to attract new residents and businesses each year. From its rich history to its diverse cultural scene and strong economy, Grand Prairie has become a popular destination for both tourists and those looking for a place to call home. History The land that is now known as Grand Prairie was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Caddo, Comanche, and Wichita. In the early 1800s, French explorer Antoine Barraque discovered this area while traveling through present-day North Texas. However, it wasn't until after the Civil War that settlers began to permanently settle in what would become Grand Prairie. In 1863, Alexander McRae Dechman purchased several acres of land near Mountain Creek Lake with plans to build his own homestead. He named his settlement "Dechman" but later changed it to "Grand Prairie" due to its vast prairies filled with wildflowers. The town grew steadily over the years thanks to agriculture and cattle ranching. Incorporation After being denied incorporation by neighboring cities Arlington and Irving multiple times in the late 19th century, citizens of Grand Prairie finally succeeded in incorporating their town on April 6th, 1909. At this time, there were only about 1oo residents living within city limits. Over time, Grand Prairie continued to grow as more industries moved into town such as brick making factories and railroad construction companies. By mid-century,the population had grown significantly due to World War II veterans settling down with their families after serving overseas. Economy Today's economy in Grand Prairie is thriving thanks largely in part to its prime location between Dallas and Fort Worth. The city boasts major industrial parks including Dalworth Industrial District, Trinity West and Mountain Creek Business Park. These parks are home to a variety of industries such as manufacturing, distribution, logistics, and technology companies. The city is also home to the Grand Prairie Municipal Airport which serves as a hub for corporate and charter flights. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the country and contributes greatly to the local economy. In addition to its industrial sector, Grand Prairie has a strong retail presence with several shopping centers including The Parks at Arlington mall and IKEA. This provides job opportunities for many residents while also attracting visitors from neighboring cities. Culture Grand Prairie's diverse cultural scene makes it a unique and exciting place to live or visit. The city hosts numerous events throughout the year that celebrate its rich history and multicultural community. One of these events is "Prairie Lights," an annual holiday light display held at Lynn Creek Park that attracts thousands of visitors each year. The Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie brings in world-renowned performers such as Elton John, Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, and more. The theatre also hosts various family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice and Sesame Street Live. For those interested in history or art, Grand Prairie offers plenty of opportunities with attractions like Traders Village flea market featuring over 3 miles of shops selling antiques, collectibles,and handmade goods; Uptown Theater - listed on National Register Historic Places; Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum showcasing oddities from around the world; Lone Star Park- state-of-the-art horse-racing venue where you can watch live races or bet on simulcast races from around America & worldwide! Outdoor Recreation Nature lovers will feel right at home in Grand Prairie with its abundance of outdoor activities. Joe Pool Lake offers fishing,picnicking,camping,hiking trails,& other recreational options for families looking to spend time outdoors. There are also multiple golf courses scattered throughout town offering challenging courses and beautiful views. Lynn Creek Park is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts with its marina, boat ramps, and beach area. The park also has hiking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas making it the perfect spot for a family day out. Education Grand Prairie takes education seriously with highly-rated schools within the Grand Prairie Independent School District as well as several private school options. In addition to traditional public schools, there are also specialized programs such as the International Baccalaureate program at Grand Prairie High School and the STEM Academy at Dubiski Career High School. The city is also home to the Tarrant County College South Campus which offers associate degrees and certificate programs in various fields of study. Conclusion In conclusion, Grand Prairie has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a small settlement on the prairie. With its strong economy, diverse culture,spectacular outdoor recreation opportunities,and excellent education system,it's no wonder that more people are choosing to make this city their home. As Grand Prairie continues to grow and develop while still preserving its rich history,it will surely remain an attractive place for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Mercury Marine, a division of Brunswick Corporation, is the world's leading manufacturer of recreational marine propulsion systems. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer, Mercury Marine has a rich history that spans over eight decades. From humble beginnings to becoming a global industry leader, this paper will delve into the fascinating journey of Mercury Marine and its impact on the boating industry. Origins: The story of Mercury Marine begins with Carl Kiekhaefer, an engineering student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. In 1936, he started an engineering consulting business in Cedarburg, Wisconsin after graduating from college. He soon realized that there was a need for affordable and reliable outboard motors for small boats. This led him to start tinkering with old engines and developing his own designs. In 1939, Kiekhaefer introduced his first outboard motor - the "Thor", named after the Norse god of thunder. The Thor was unlike any other outboard motor on the market at that time - it had aluminum alloy parts instead of cast iron which made it lighter and more powerful. However, due to World War II breaking out shortly after its release, production was halted as resources were redirected towards war efforts. Post-war Boom: After World War II ended in 1945, demand for recreational boating increased significantly which gave rise to new opportunities for Mercury Marine. In 1947, Kiekhaefer rebranded his company as "Mercury" – inspired by Roman mythology's messenger god known for speed – and moved operations to Fond du Lac,Wisconsin where they are still headquartered today. With growing success came innovation- introducing new models such as Hurricane (the first four-cylinder two-stroke engine), Mark 55 (first V6 engine) ,and Mercruiser (inboard/outdoor stern drive system). This propelled Mercury into being one of America's most recognizable brands. In 1952, Mercury Marine was sold to Brunswick Corporation and became a subsidiary of their marine division. This led to significant investments in research and development which resulted in advancements such as electronic fuel injection, digital throttle and shift systems, and the revolutionary Verado four-stroke outboard engine. Dominating the Industry: Despite facing stiff competition from other major players like Yamaha, Suzuki, and Evinrude – Mercury Marine continued to dominate the industry with its cutting-edge technology. In 2004, they introduced "SmartCraft" - an integrated system that allowed boaters to monitor all aspects of their boat's performance on one screen. This innovation revolutionized recreational boating by making it easier for owners to maintain their vessels. Mercury also expanded its product line beyond just outboard motors- including accessories such as steering systems, control boxes,and propellers. Additionally,Mercruiser is now a leading provider of sterndrive propulsion systems used in everything from small runabouts to large yachts. Global Reach: Over time,Mercury has expanded its reach globally with manufacturing facilities in multiple countries including Australia,Thailand,Brazil,and Italy. Its products are distributed worldwide through a network of over 4000 dealerships serving customers across six continents. In recent years,Mercury has focused on developing environmentally friendly technologies such as the introduction of cleaner-burning engines that meet stricter emission standards set by government agencies.These efforts have earned them recognition within the industry- winning numerous awards for sustainability initiatives,such as Michigan Clean Corporate Citizen Award presented by Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Conclusion: Today Mercury Marine stands at the forefront of technological advances within recreational boating.The company continues pushing boundaries with new innovations while staying true to its core values established by Carl Kiekhaefer nearly eight decades ago- providing reliable,outstanding quality products backed by exceptional customer service. From humble beginnings producing one motor at a time,to becoming a global powerhouse in the marine industry,Mercury Marine has come a long way. With its strong reputation for quality and innovation,it is no surprise that Mercury remains as one of the most recognized names in boating and continues to shape the future of recreational boating.

Mercury Marine is a division of Brunswick Corporation, specializing in the manufacturing and distribution of marine propulsion systems. The company was founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Kiekhaefer originally started the company as an engineering firm called "Kiekhaefer Aeromarine" with a focus on developing two-stroke engines for racing boats. However, after experiencing success in boat races, Kiekhaefer shifted his focus to producing outboard motors for everyday use. In 1940, Mercury Marine introduced its first production model outboard motor – the Thunderbolt Four – which quickly gained popularity due to its lightweight design and powerful performance. This marked the beginning of Mercury's reputation as an industry leader in innovation and technology. During World War II, Mercury Marine played a crucial role in supplying military forces with reliable engines for their landing craft and other small boats. After the war ended, demand for recreational boating increased significantly and Mercury continued to expand its product line to meet this growing market. In 1957, Mercury introduced its first sterndrive engine – the MerCruiser – which revolutionized powerboating by combining an outboard motor with an inboard lower unit. This innovative design allowed boaters to have more space onboard without sacrificing performance. Throughout the following decades, Mercury continued to introduce new technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) and direct fuel injection (DFI), making their engines more efficient and environmentally friendly while also enhancing performance. In 1961, Brunswick Corporation acquired Mercury Marine from Kiekhaefer Aero-Marine Motors Corp., marking a significant turning point for both companies. Under Brunswick's ownership, Mercury was able to further expand globally and diversify into other areas of marine equipment such as controls systems and propellers. Today,Mercury Marine is headquartered in Fond du Lac,Wisconsin,and has over 6 million square feet of manufacturing space across the world. The company employs over 7,000 people globally and produces a wide range of marine engines, including outboard motors, sterndrives, and inboards. In recent years, Mercury Marine has also made significant investments in research and development to improve their products' sustainability. This includes developing more fuel-efficient engines and exploring alternative power sources such as electric propulsion. Mercury Marine's commitment to innovation and quality has earned them numerous awards throughout their history. They have been named "Supplier of the Year" by several boat manufacturers and received recognition for their environmental efforts from organizations like the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA). Overall, Mercury Marine has played a vital role in shaping the recreational boating industry with its innovative technologies and reliable products. As they continue to evolve with changing technology and consumer demands, it is clear that they will remain a leader in the marine propulsion market for years to come.

Grand Prairie, Texas is a bustling city located in the heart of the Lone Star State. It is situated between Dallas and Fort Worth, two major metropolitan areas that have greatly influenced its growth and development. The city has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s and has seen remarkable changes throughout the years. The land that is now known as Grand Prairie was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Caddo, Comanche, and Wichita. These groups were nomadic hunters who roamed the plains of Texas for centuries before European settlers arrived. In 1841, Republic of Texas President Sam Houston granted a land grant to Alexander MacRae Dechman for his service during the Battle of San Jacinto. Dechman settled on this land with his family and established a homestead which he named "Dechman." This area would later become known as Grand Prairie due to its vast prairie lands. The Civil War brought about significant changes in Grand Prairie's economy as many families relocated from rural areas to take advantage of new job opportunities in cities like Dallas and Fort Worth. After Reconstruction ended in 1877, railroads began expanding into North Texas which further spurred growth in Grand Prairie. In 1909, Everett Colborn founded Grand Prairie City Company with plans to develop large tracts of farmland into residential neighborhoods. By 1912, Colborn had successfully sold over 400 acres of land resulting in rapid population growth for the small community. One event that put Grand Prairie on the map was when aviation pioneer Tony Jannus performed an aerial demonstration above Main Street in November of 1913. This marked one of his first flights outside Florida and helped bring attention to Grand Prairie's potential for aviation development. During World War I, Camp Bowie was established just south-east of downtown Fort Worth which provided economic stability for surrounding communities including Grand Prairie. Many soldiers returning from war chose to settle in the area, further contributing to its growth. In 1928, Grand Prairie was incorporated as a city with John Alexander serving as its first mayor. The Great Depression hit the city hard but it continued to grow and thrive due to its strategic location between two major cities. The early 1940s brought about another significant change for Grand Prairie when Consolidated Aircraft Corporation (later known as Convair) opened a plant in the city. This facility produced B-24 bombers during World War II and employed thousands of workers from surrounding areas. After the war ended, many employees of Convair chose to stay in Grand Prairie and helped fuel its post-war economic boom. In addition, General Dynamics established their headquarters in Grand Prairie which further solidified the city's reputation as an important hub for aviation and aerospace industries. Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Grand Prairie saw continuous growth and development. Residential neighborhoods expanded, new businesses were established, and recreational opportunities such as Six Flags Over Texas amusement park opened within city limits. In recent years, Grand Prairie has focused on revitalizing its downtown area by preserving historic buildings while also attracting new businesses and residents. The city is also home to popular attractions such as Lone Star Park horse racing track and Verizon Theatre at Grand Prairie which hosts concerts and events throughout the year. As of 2021, Grand Prairie continues to be one of North Texas' fastest-growing cities with a diverse population that values community pride and economic prosperity. Its rich history has shaped it into a vibrant modern-day metropolis while still retaining elements of its small-town charm. In conclusion, Grand Prairie's history is deeply intertwined with that of Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. From humble beginnings as a homestead settlement on vast prairie lands to becoming an important hub for aviation and aerospace industries – this Texas gem has come a long way since its establishment over 100 years ago. Today it stands tall as a thriving community that offers its residents and visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.

Grand Prairie, Texas has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Caddo, Wichita, and Comanche people. In 1836, after gaining independence from Mexico, the Republic of Texas was formed. The land where Grand Prairie now stands was part of this new republic and was primarily used for hunting and farming. The first known European settlers in the area were French traders who established trading posts along the Trinity River in the late 1700s. In 1841, Alexander Macrae became one of the first Anglo-American settlers in Grand Prairie when he purchased land near Mountain Creek. As more settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, small communities began to form throughout what is now considered Grand Prairie. These settlements included Deckman Springs (now known as Dalworth), Bird's Fort (now incorporated into Euless), Mayfield (now part of Arlington), and Hopedale (now part of Cedar Hill). One significant event in Grand Prairie's history occurred during the Civil War when a Confederate army camped on what is now Joe Pool Lake. This encampment served as an important supply base for General Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia. After Reconstruction ended in 1877, Grand Prairie saw rapid growth with new schools being built and roads being constructed. By this time, its population had grown to around 200 residents. In 1909, Theodore Roosevelt visited Grand Prairie while on a hunting trip at nearby Eagle Ford Lake. He stayed at what is now known as "Roosevelt Lodge" which still stands today as a historical site open to visitors. The discovery of oil near Dallas-Fort Worth brought about another wave of growth for Grand Prairie in the early 20th century. Oil companies began drilling operations within city limits which led to an economic boom and attracted even more settlers to the area. In 1909, a cotton gin and two general stores were established in Grand Prairie, marking its transition from a small rural community into a bustling town. In 1926, Grand Prairie officially incorporated as a city with around 1,000 residents. During World War II, Grand Prairie played an important role in the war effort by housing Camp Wolters military training base. The camp trained over 300,000 soldiers during the war and was later renamed Fort Wolters after the war ended. In the post-war years, Grand Prairie experienced continued growth and development. The opening of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in nearby Irving brought more economic opportunities to the area. Today, Grand Prairie is home to over 195,000 residents and continues to thrive as a diverse community with strong ties to its past. It is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreation opportunities at Joe Pool Lake and Lynn Creek Park on Joe Pool Lake's southern shore. Additionally,the city hosts several annual events such as Main Street Fest and Prairie Lights that attract visitors from all over Texas.

Mercury Marine is a renowned global leader in the marine industry, known for its innovative technology and high-quality products. The company has a rich history dating back to 1939 when it was founded by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. Over the years, Mercury Marine has expanded its operations globally and established numerous manufacturing facilities across the United States. One of these facilities is located in Grand Prairie, Texas – a city situated on the west side of Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This facility plays an essential role in Mercury Marine's success and has been an integral part of its growth since its establishment over four decades ago. The history of Mercury Marine's presence in Grand Prairie dates back to 1975 when it acquired Outboard Marine Corporation (OMC), which had previously owned a plant there. At that time, OMC was facing financial challenges, which made them unable to continue operating their Grand Prairie plant effectively. This presented an opportunity for Mercury Marine to expand its production capacity and establish a significant presence in Texas. Initially named "Kiekhaefer Aeromarine Inc," this facility employed around 100 people who focused on producing stern drives for boats under various brand names such as Chris-Craft and Glastron. However, with increased demand for outboard engines from consumers, Mercury Marine shifted its focus towards producing outboard motors at this plant. In 1992, after several name changes and acquisitions, it became known as "Mercury Performance Products." With advancements in technology and growing market demand during the late '90s and early 2000s, this facility underwent significant expansions both physically and technologically. In May 2006, following another acquisition by Brunswick Corporation - one of the world's largest recreational boat manufacturers - this factory officially became known as "Mercury MerCruiser." Today it operates under Brunswick's propulsion division alongside other brands like Quicksilver Parts and Mercury Racing. The Grand Prairie facility spans over 1.5 million square feet and employs around 1,200 people, making it the largest employer in the city. It also houses some of the most advanced manufacturing technologies used in producing high-performance marine engines. These include computerized machining centers, robotic welding machines, and automated assembly lines that ensure consistent quality and efficiency in production processes. Over the years, this plant has been an integral part of Mercury Marine's success story due to its strategic location near major shipping ports like Galveston Bay and Houston Ship Channel. This has enabled easier access for international shipments of finished products to global markets. In addition to its significant contribution to Mercury Marine's growth as a company, this facility has also played a crucial role in supporting local communities through various initiatives such as job creation and community outreach programs. The company is committed to giving back by providing support to organizations that promote education, health care services, environmental conservation efforts, among others. One notable event that cemented Mercury Marine's presence in Grand Prairie was when they celebrated their 40th anniversary at this plant on October 3rd-4th, 2015. During this event – attended by government officials from Texas state including then-governor Greg Abbott - Brunswick Corporation announced plans for further investments worth $10 million towards expanding operations at this factory. Today Mercury MerCruiser continues its legacy as one of the leading manufacturers of stern drives globally while investing heavily in research & development (R&D) activities aimed at developing more innovative marine propulsion solutions for future boating needs. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's history in Grand Prairie is a testament to their commitment towards delivering high-quality products while fostering economic growth within local communities where they operate. Their continued expansion over four decades proves their ability to adapt and evolve with changing market trends successfully – solidifying them as leaders not only in innovation but also corporate responsibility.

Mercury Marine is a leading manufacturer of marine engines and propulsion systems, known for its innovation, reliability and performance. Founded in 1939 by Carl Kiekhaefer in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, the company has grown to become a global leader in the boating industry. The beginnings of Mercury Marine can be traced back to Kiekhaefer's passion for engineering and his vision to build high-quality outboard motors. He started with just one employee and a small workshop, but soon his reputation for producing superior products spread throughout the boating community. In 1940, Mercury Marine introduced its first outboard motor - the "Thunderbolt" - which quickly gained popularity due to its innovative design and powerful performance. This was followed by several other successful models such as Hurricane, Lightning and Quicksilver. During World War II, Mercury Marine shifted its focus from recreational boats to military vessels. The company produced more than 30 different types of motors for various military applications including landing craft, patrol boats and minesweepers. This further strengthened their position as a reliable manufacturer of marine engines. After the war ended, Mercury Marine returned to producing recreational boat motors and continued to expand its product line with new technologies such as electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems and four-stroke engines. In 1984, they became the first company to introduce an electronic fuel-injected two-stroke outboard engine – the Black Max. Throughout the years, Mercury Marine has been at the forefront of technological advancements in marine propulsion systems. They were among the first companies to use computer-aided design (CAD) software for designing boat engines. Today their state-of-the-art facilities utilize cutting-edge technology for testing and manufacturing processes. One of their most significant achievements was introducing Verado -the world's first supercharged four-stroke outboard engine- in 2005.This revolutionary engine provided unmatched power combined with exceptional fuel efficiency while also reducing emissions. It was a game-changer in the industry and quickly became the top choice for boaters. In 2011, Mercury Marine expanded its product line to include sterndrives with the acquisition of Italian manufacturer - Motori Marini San Giorgio (MMS). This allowed them to offer customers a complete range of propulsion options from outboard motors to sterndrives. Today, Mercury Marine has operations in over 120 countries and employs more than 7,500 people worldwide. They have consistently been recognized for their commitment to innovation and quality, receiving numerous awards such as "Marine Industry Customer Satisfaction Index Award" from J.D Power and Associates. But beyond just manufacturing high-quality marine engines, Mercury Marine is also committed to environmental sustainability. They have implemented various initiatives like using recycled materials in their products and continuously improving engine technology to reduce emissions. Mercury Marine's success can be attributed not only to its technological advancements but also its dedication towards customer satisfaction. The company offers excellent after-sales services through its extensive network of dealerships globally. Their focus on building long-term relationships with customers has earned them a loyal following within the boating community. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for eco-friendly propulsion systems in the marine industry. In response, Mercury Marine introduced an electric outboard motor –the first of its kind- which provides zero-emission power without compromising on performance or reliability. Looking towards the future, Mercury Marine continues to push boundaries by investing heavily in research and development efforts. With an increasing demand for sustainable solutions in boating as well as emerging technologies like autonomous vessels, we can expect further groundbreaking innovations from this industry leader. In conclusion, Mercury Marine's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a global powerhouse is a testament to their unwavering commitment towards excellence and continuous improvement. As they continue leading the way in marine propulsion systems while prioritizing environmental stewardship and customer satisfaction, it is clear that they will remain a dominant force in the boating industry for years to come.