The history of pontoon boat manufacturing in Roswell, Georgia dates back to the early 20th century. This small city located in Fulton County has a rich history of boat building and is known as one of the major hubs for pontoon boat production in the United States. In the early 1900s, Roswell was primarily an agricultural town with cotton mills and sawmills being its main industries. However, with the advent of World War II, there was a significant shift towards industrialization and manufacturing. The Chattahoochee River that runs through Roswell became an important source for hydroelectric power which attracted many businesses to set up shop along its banks. One such business was Harris Manufacturing Company which started operations in 1948 and specialized in producing aluminum pontoons for boats. It was founded by two brothers, George Farris Sr. and Joe Farris who were experienced welders from Atlanta. Their initial focus was on producing parts for warplanes during World War II but they quickly realized the potential of using their skills to manufacture pontoons for recreational boats. Harris Manufacturing Company played a crucial role in developing the modern-day pontoon boat design by introducing innovations such as round-nose pontoons, thicker gauge aluminum sheets, and T-section cross members that improved stability and durability. These improvements made their boats more appealing to consumers looking for comfort and reliability on water. As demand grew for their products, Harris Manufacturing expanded its operations by acquiring an old cotton mill on Riverside Road in Roswell where it built its first factory dedicated solely to pontoon production. This move marked a turning point not only for Harris Manufacturing but also put Roswell on the map as a prominent center for pontoon boat manufacturing. In 1972, another key player entered into this growing industry – Godfrey Marine (now known as Nautic Global Group). With over three decades of experience under their belt at that time, Godfrey Marine was one of the largest manufacturers of aluminum pontoons in the country. They saw an opportunity to expand their business by acquiring Harris Manufacturing, and with it, they gained a strong foothold in Roswell’s pontoon boat market. The acquisition proved to be successful for both companies as Godfrey Marine brought its expertise in fiberglass boat production while Harris Manufacturing had a well-established reputation for manufacturing high-quality aluminum pontoons. Together, they developed new designs that combined both materials resulting in more efficient and versatile boats. In 1993, another major player emerged on the scene – Premier Marine Inc. With its headquarters based in Wyoming, Minnesota, Premier Marine set up its second manufacturing facility in Roswell which specialized solely in producing luxury pontoon boats under their flagship brand name ‘Premier’. Their presence further solidified Roswell's position as one of the top destinations for pontoon boat enthusiasts. As the demand for pontoons continued to grow over time, many other manufacturers followed suit by setting up operations in Roswell including Avalon & Tahoe Pontoon Boats and Forest River Marine. This influx of industry players not only provided job opportunities but also contributed significantly to the economic growth of Roswell. Today, there are over ten pontoon boat manufacturers operating out of this small city including some niche players like Manitou Pontoons who specialize exclusively in producing performance-oriented luxury boats. The success story of these businesses has made Roswell synonymous with quality pontoon boat production and has earned it a reputation as 'the Pontoon Capital' among boating enthusiasts worldwide. In conclusion, from humble beginnings as an agricultural town to becoming a bustling hub for pontoon boat manufacturing -Roswell’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. With each company bringing something unique to the table through innovation and technological advancements over time, this industry continues to thrive making Georgia’s historic city an essential part of America's boating legacy.
Pontoon boats have become a popular choice among boaters in the United States for their versatility, stability, and comfort. These vessels are designed with two or more flat-bottomed hulls that are connected by a large deck platform, creating a stable and spacious area for passengers to relax and enjoy various water activities. In the US, there is no shortage of pontoon boat manufacturers offering a wide range of models to cater to different needs and preferences. In this paper, we will take an in-depth look at some of the top pontoon boat manufacturers in the USA. 1. Bennington Marine Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Bennington Marine has been manufacturing high-quality pontoon boats since 1997. The company prides itself on its innovative designs and state-of-the-art technology used in building each vessel. With over 400 dealers across North America, Bennington offers a variety of models ranging from luxury pontoons to fishing pontoons. What sets Bennington apart from other manufacturers is its focus on customer satisfaction. The company allows customers to customize their boats according to their preferences through its Build-a-Boat feature on its website. This has made them one of the most sought-after brands among boating enthusiasts. 2. Harris Boats Founded in 1957 by Roy Harris Sr., Harris Boats is one of the oldest pontoon boat manufacturers in the USA. Based out of Fort Wayne, Indiana, Harris Boats was acquired by Brunswick Corporation (the parent company of Mercury Marine) in 2005. Harris Boats is known for its luxurious and high-performance pontoons that cater to both recreational boaters and anglers alike. Their patented V-hull design provides better handling and maneuverability compared to traditional flat-bottomed hulls found on most pontoons. 3.Godfrey Pontoon Boats With over six decades of experience under their belt, Godfrey Pontoon Boats has established itself as one of the leading pontoon manufacturers in the USA. The company prides itself on its quality craftsmanship, innovative designs, and cutting-edge technology. Based in Elkhart, Indiana, Godfrey offers a wide range of models to cater to different budgets and needs. Their pontoons are known for their durability and performance on the water. In addition to standard features found on most pontoons, Godfrey also offers optional upgrades such as LED lighting packages and premium sound systems. 4. Crest Pontoons Crest Pontoons has been manufacturing high-quality pontoons since 1957 from their facility in Owosso, Michigan. The company is committed to providing customers with comfortable and reliable boats that meet their boating needs without breaking the bank. Crest Pontoons offer a variety of models ranging from entry-level basic cruisers to luxurious entertainment vessels equipped with top-of-the-line amenities such as wet bars and built-in grills. One unique feature offered by Crest is their patented Railing Lock System that provides a secure grip while boarding or docking. 5.Sun Tracker Sun Tracker is another well-known brand for producing affordable yet durable pontoon boats since 1983. Based out of Springfield, Missouri, Sun Tracker offers a variety of models designed specifically for fishing enthusiasts at an affordable price point. Their fishing-specific models come equipped with features like rod holders, livewells, and fish finders. In addition to these specialized models, Sun Tracker also offers leisure pontoons perfect for family outings or relaxing days on the water. 6.Misty Harbor Boats Founded in 1990 in Bristol Indiana by two brothers who were passionate about boating,Misty Harbor Boats has become one of the fastest-growing pontoon boat manufacturers in America today.Their commitment towards delivering quality vessels at an affordable price has made them stand out among competitors.Misty Harbor's state-of-the-art production facility allows them to offer a wide range of models that cater to different boating styles and preferences. Their pontoons are built with high-quality materials and equipped with various amenities such as loungers, changing rooms, and stereo systems. Misty Harbor also offers customizable options for customers who want to add their personal touch to their boat. In conclusion, the pontoon boat market in the USA is filled with top manufacturers dedicated to providing customers with high-performance and comfortable vessels. Each brand has its own unique features and selling points that appeal to different types of boaters. Whether you are looking for a luxurious entertainment vessel or a fishing-specific pontoon, there is no doubt that one of these manufacturers will have something perfect for your needs.
Roswell, Georgia has a long history of boat manufacturing and is home to several well-known pontoon boat manufacturers. The city's location on the Chattahoochee River and proximity to Lake Lanier make it an ideal location for these companies. One of the oldest and most established pontoon boat manufacturers in Roswell is Harris Boats. Founded in 1957 by Roy Harris, the company originally produced small aluminum boats but soon shifted its focus to pontoon boats. Today, Harris Boats is known for its high-quality construction and innovative design features. They offer a range of models from luxury pontoons with custom options to more affordable entry-level boats. Another prominent company in Roswell's boating industry is Premier Pontoons. Started in 1992 by Bob Menne, Premier quickly gained recognition for its unique styling and high-performance capabilities. Their patented PTX technology allows their pontoons to perform like traditional V-hull boats while still providing ample space for lounging and entertaining. In recent years, Roswell has also become home to newer players in the pontoon boat market such as South Bay Pontoons (founded in 2005) and Avalon Pontoon Boats (founded in 1974). These companies have expanded their operations into Roswell due to its reputation as a hub for quality boat manufacturing. The success of these companies can be attributed not only to their strategic location but also to Georgia's business-friendly policies that attract entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their businesses. The state offers tax incentives and other benefits that have made it an attractive destination for industries such as marine manufacturing. Aside from being a thriving center for pontoon boat production, Roswell also hosts several annual events related to boating including the Atlanta Boat Show at Lake Lanier Islands Resort which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Overall, the history of pontoon boat manufacturing in Roswell showcases how this once-small Georgia town has become a major player in the boating industry. With its ideal location, supportive business environment, and skilled workforce, it is likely that Roswell will continue to be a hub for pontoon boat production for many years to come.
Roswell, Georgia is a city located in the northern part of Fulton County, approximately 20 miles north of Atlanta. With a population of over 94,000 people as of 2021, it is the eighth largest city in the state and has become known as one of the most desirable places to live in Georgia. The history of Roswell dates back to the early 1800s when it was first established as a cotton mill town along Vickery Creek. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as Cherokee and Creek before being settled by European settlers in the late 1700s. The land on which Roswell now stands was initially owned by King George II but later acquired by Roswell King, who founded the town and named it after himself. One significant event that shaped Roswell's history was its involvement in the Civil War. During this time, Roswell served as a major manufacturing center for Confederate uniforms and supplies due to its large textile mills. However, on July 5th, 1864, Union General William Tecumseh Sherman ordered his troops to destroy all industrial buildings in Roswell. As a result, many businesses were burned down or destroyed, leaving behind only ruins that can still be seen today at Old Mill Park. After Reconstruction ended following World War II, Roswell experienced significant growth with an influx of new residents drawn to its beautiful landscapes and close proximity to Atlanta. In recent years especially, Roswell has transformed into an affluent community with upscale neighborhoods and thriving local businesses. Today,Roswell boasts numerous attractions that make it stand out both locally and nationally. One such attraction is Bulloch Hall – once home to Martha Bulloch Roosevelt (mother of President Theodore Roosevelt) – which offers tours showcasing life during antebellum times through original furnishings dating back over two centuries ago. Another popular destination among tourists is Chattahoochee Nature Center – a 127-acre preserve and nature center that features gardens, trails, and exhibits showcasing the native flora and fauna of the Chattahoochee River watershed. Visitors can also take part in educational programs about conservation and sustainability. Roswell's vibrant downtown area is also a major draw for both residents and visitors. The historic district boasts an array of boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries housed in beautifully restored buildings from the 1800s. Some notable events held in downtown Roswell include "Alive After Five" – a monthly street festival featuring live music, food trucks, and local vendors – as well as the annual Roswell Arts Festival showcasing works by over 150 artists. In addition to its rich history and thriving community life,Roswell prides itself on its excellent education system. The city has several highly-rated public schools under Fulton County Schools as well as private institutions such as Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. Moreover,Roswell offers various recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts with over 900 acres of parkland spread across twenty parks within the city limits. These include Big Creek Park offering hiking trails along Big Creek Greenway; Old Mill Park featuring picnic areas, playgrounds,and access to Vickery Creek; Azalea Park boasting stunning views of the Chattahoochee River;and many more. In recent years,Roswell has also made significant efforts towards becoming a sustainable community through various initiatives aimed at reducing waste,promoting energy efficiency,and preserving green spaces. In fact,the city was recognized by Georgia Recycling Coalition with an award for its outstanding recycling program. While Roswell continues to grow economically and socially,it remains committed to preserving its historical roots through preservation projects such as Bulloch Hall restoration efforts.The city's motto,"Keeping History Alive", serves not only to honor its past but also guide it towards creating a bright future for generations to come. In conclusion,Roswell is a charming southern town with deep historical significance,a vibrant community life,and a commitment to sustainability. It offers residents and visitors alike the perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities,making it an ideal place to call home or visit for a weekend getaway. Whether you're strolling through its historic streets,exploring its natural beauty,or indulging in local cuisine,Roswell has something for everyone and is truly a gem of Georgia.
Pontoon boats have been a staple of American boating culture for over half a century. These versatile vessels are widely used for fishing, leisure cruising, and even as party barges on lakes and rivers across the country. The history of pontoon boat manufacturing in the United States is one that reflects the evolution of recreational boating and showcases the ingenuity and determination of American entrepreneurs. The origins of pontoon boats can be traced back to ancient times when people used floating logs or inflated animal skins as makeshift rafts. However, it wasn't until the early 1950s that modern-day pontoon boats were first introduced by two brothers from Minnesota, Ambrose Weeres and Ben Weeres. In 1951, Ambrose Weeres built a prototype pontoon boat using steel barrels welded together to form pontoons. This design allowed for better stability and buoyancy compared to traditional flat-bottomed boats commonly used at the time. The following year, his brother Ben joined him in producing these innovative vessels commercially under their newly formed company called "Weeres Industries." Their first model was named "Empress," measuring 16 feet long with an aluminum deck supported by three pontoons. It quickly gained popularity among local fishermen due to its spacious layout and stable ride even in choppy waters. As demand grew, they expanded their product line with larger models featuring more luxurious amenities such as seating areas, sun decks, stereo systems, and even mini fridges. With their success in Minnesota's lakes region, other manufacturers soon caught on to this new trend. In 1958 another Minnesotan entrepreneur named Forest Lasseter founded "Sun Tracker Marine" after seeing potential in creating affordable all-aluminum pontoon boats. During this time period (late-1950s), advancements in marine technology allowed for faster assembly methods making production easier while also reducing costs significantly. This led to a surge in new companies entering the market, primarily in the Midwest and Southeast regions where pontoon boats were most popular. One of the first major manufacturers to emerge was "Harris FloteBote" founded in 1957 by W.H Harris. They quickly became known for their high-quality construction and luxurious features, setting a standard that other manufacturers would strive to match. In the 1960s, with increased demand for pontoon boats, several more companies entered the market, including "Aqua Patio," "Play Craft," and "Crestliner." Each of these companies brought unique designs and innovations to cater to different customer needs. The growth of pontoon boat manufacturing continued through the late 1970s when fiberglass hulls emerged as an alternative material offering greater durability and design flexibility. This resulted in higher-priced luxury models being introduced by well-known brands such as Sea Ray and Bayliner. However, it wasn't until the mid-1980s when pontoons started gaining mainstream popularity across America. With improved engineering techniques allowing for larger sizes (often exceeding 30 feet), these vessels began accommodating larger groups of people making them ideal for family outings or party cruises on lakes or rivers. During this time period (late-1980s) American-based company Brunswick Corporation acquired multiple established brands such as Crestliner, Harris FloteBote, Lowe Boats Inc., Lund Boat Company among others while also establishing its own brand - Princecraft Boats Ltd., Canada's leading manufacturer of aluminum fishing boats. This acquisition spree helped Brunswick become one of America's largest recreational boating conglomerates with a diverse portfolio catering to all types of boaters from entry-level consumers to seasoned enthusiasts. The new millennium saw further advancements in technology resulting in even more innovative designs being introduced into the market by both established brands like Sun Tracker Marine and newer ones like Premier Pontoons who debuted their ground-breaking triple-tube configuration called PTX™ Technology which significantly improved handling and performance. Today, the pontoon boat market in the United States is highly competitive with over 20 major manufacturers offering a wide range of models to cater to different budgets and preferences. These vessels are now equipped with advanced features such as GPS navigation systems, LED lighting, hydraulic steering, and even wakeboard towers making them suitable for watersports enthusiasts as well. In conclusion, the history of pontoon boat manufacturing in the United States is one that has seen significant growth driven by innovation and consumer demand. What started as a simple steel barrel design has evolved into luxurious recreational boats catering to diverse needs and preferences. The success of these manufacturers reflects not only their determination but also showcases America's love for boating and water-based activities. Pontoon boats have become an integral part of American culture, enabling families and friends to create lasting memories on our beautiful lakes and rivers.
The history of pontoon boats in the United States dates back to the early 1950s, when a group of friends from Minnesota wanted to create a stable and versatile boat for fishing on their local lakes. They came up with the idea of using cylindrical metal tubes or "pontoons" as flotation devices instead of traditional hulls. The first prototype was built by Ambrose Weeres, who is often credited as the inventor of the modern-day pontoon boat. He used two steel barrels welded together and added a wooden deck on top. This design allowed for better stability and increased weight capacity compared to other small boats at that time. In 1958, Weeres formed his own company called Weeres Industries and began selling his pontoon boats commercially. These early models were simple, no-frills vessels primarily used for fishing and leisurely cruising on calm waters. As demand grew for these unique boats, other manufacturers started entering the market. One notable player was Harris FloteBote Company, which introduced luxury features such as plush seating and stereo systems into their pontoon designs in the 1960s. In addition to recreational use, pontoons also became popular among commercial fishermen due to their wide decks providing ample space for equipment storage and maneuvering around shallow waters. Throughout the decades, advances in technology have greatly impacted pontoon boat manufacturing. Aluminum replaced steel as the primary material for pontoons, making them lighter yet stronger. The introduction of fiberglass components further improved durability while adding sleekness to overall design. By the late 1980s, pontoons had become more than just basic fishing boats; they were now being used for water sports such as tubing and skiing thanks to larger engines being installed on them. Today's pontoon boat market is highly competitive with numerous manufacturers offering various sizes and styles to suit different needs and preferences. Some well-known brands include Sun Tracker (a subsidiary of Bass Pro Shops), Crestliner, Bennington, and Manitou. In addition to traditional pontoons, there are also tritoon boats that have three pontoons instead of two. This design provides even better stability and higher weight capacity for more adventurous activities on the water. Pontoon boats continue to evolve with modern features like GPS systems, LED lighting, and electronic controls being incorporated into their designs. They have become a popular choice for family outings, fishing trips, party cruises, and many other recreational activities. Today's pontoon boat manufacturers in the US not only focus on creating functional vessels but also strive to provide luxurious amenities and innovative technology. With a rich history behind them and constant advancements in design and engineering techniques, pontoon boats remain a staple in American boating culture.
Roswell, Georgia is a city located in the northern part of Fulton County with an estimated population of 88,346 as of 2019. It is known for its scenic beauty and rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. The land on which Roswell stands today was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Creek nations. However, it was not until the arrival of European settlers that Roswell began to take shape. The story of Roswell begins with a man named Roswell King who arrived in Georgia from Connecticut in 1817. He purchased several thousand acres of land along the Chattahoochee River with plans to establish a cotton plantation. King brought skilled workers from New England and built mills on Vickery Creek to produce textiles using water power. The town soon became known as "Mill Town" due to its booming textile industry, attracting many people seeking employment opportunities. By the mid-1830s, Mill Town had grown significantly with over 400 residents living in the area. In addition to being a successful businessman, King also played an important role in establishing churches and schools in the community. In fact, he donated land for both St David's Episcopal Church and Roswell Presbyterian Church – two historic landmarks that still stand today. However, tragedy struck Mill Town during the Civil War when Union troops destroyed most of its infrastructure during their infamous March to Sea campaign. Despite this setback, Mill Town managed to bounce back after the war ended thanks to its resilient residents who rebuilt their homes and businesses. One significant event that put Roswell on the map was when William Sherman’s army occupied Atlanta during his march southward through Georgia towards Savannah. During this time, Confederate soldiers were ordered by General John B Hood Jr., commander-in-chief if they could not be evacuated then all supplies should be burned so they would not fall into Union hands. As a result, the remaining industrial buildings in Roswell were burnt down, including the mills. This event is still remembered and commemorated every year during the annual Roswell Remembers Memorial Day event. After the war, Roswell shifted its focus from textile production to agriculture and became known as a hub for dairy farming. The abundant water supply from the Chattahoochee River also made it an ideal location for paper manufacturing, which further contributed to its economic growth. In 1941, with the onset of World War II, many industries in Roswell switched their production to support the war effort. The Bell Bomber Plant was built in nearby Marietta, creating thousands of jobs and bringing more people into the area. As time went on, Roswell continued to grow and develop into a thriving suburban community with a diverse population. In 1954, it officially became a city after residents voted for incorporation. Since then, it has undergone numerous changes and developments while still maintaining its small-town charm and historic character. Today, Roswell is home to several parks and recreational areas such as Vickery Creek Trailhead at Big Creek Park – a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities. It also boasts a vibrant downtown area filled with local businesses, restaurants serving delicious Southern cuisine, art galleries showcasing local talent,and festivals celebrating its rich heritage. The preservation of history has always been important to the citizens of Roswell. Several historic sites have been carefully restored over time including Bulloch Hall – former home of Mittie Bulloch (mother of President Theodore Roosevelt), Barrington Hall – once owned by one of King's sons-in-law who was instrumental in rebuilding Mill Town after the Civil War,and Smith Plantation – another antebellum mansion that offers tours depicting life during that era. In recent years, Roswell has become known as one of Georgia's most desirable places to live due to its excellent schools,safe neighborhoods,and strong sense of community.The city continues to attract new residents and businesses while preserving its rich history, making it a truly unique and special place. In conclusion, the city of Roswell has a fascinating history that spans over 200 years. From its humble beginnings as a mill town to its current status as a thriving suburban community, it has gone through many changes but still holds on to its roots. It serves as an example of resilience and strength in the face of adversity while also showcasing the importance of preservation and embracing one's heritage. Roswell is not just a city – it is a living piece of Georgia's past with a promising future ahead.
Roswell, Georgia is a historic city located in Fulton County, nestled along the banks of the Chattahoochee River. The area now known as Roswell was first inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Creek nations. The origins of Roswell can be traced back to 1830 when founder Roswell King purchased land from the Cherokee Indians and established a cotton mill on Vickery (now Big) Creek. With access to waterpower and fertile land for growing cotton, Roswell's mill quickly became successful, attracting workers from nearby areas. By 1854, Roswell had grown into a bustling town with a population of over 400 people. The town continued to thrive during this time thanks to its thriving textile industry, which produced high-quality goods such as cloth and yarn. In addition to textiles, other industries such as tanning and flour milling also emerged in Roswell. However, like many Southern cities at the time, slavery played an integral role in the economy of Roswell. Many enslaved African Americans worked in the mills and plantations surrounding the city until Emancipation brought about significant changes. During the Civil War era, Roswell served as an important site for Confederate manufacturing efforts due to its abundant resources and strategic location near Atlanta. However, towards the end of the war in July 1864, Union General William T. Sherman ordered his troops to destroy all industrial buildings in Roswell that were used for Confederate production. This event came to be known as "Sherman's March," where thousands of homes were burned down by Union forces who believed they were supporting Confederacy efforts. As a result of this devastation caused by Sherman's troops' actions during their march through Georgia towards Atlanta, Roswell became known as one of only two towns north of Atlanta that was completely destroyed during this campaign - leaving behind ruins that still stand today. After Reconstruction ended in 1877 following years of political and economic turmoil, Roswell began to rebuild itself. The textile industry continued to thrive, and new businesses emerged, including a brickyard that supplied materials for the rebuilding of Atlanta after it was burned down during the Civil War. In 1941, a major flood caused extensive damage in Roswell and led to the construction of Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River. This project not only provided flood control but also created Lake Lanier - now a popular destination for recreation and tourism. Today, Roswell is no longer reliant solely on its textile industry but has diversified its economy with retail stores, restaurants, technology companies, and other small businesses. The city has also placed an emphasis on preserving its rich history through various preservation efforts such as restoring historic homes and buildings. Roswell's historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places due to its well-preserved antebellum architecture. Visitors can take walking tours or visit museums such as Bulloch Hall (home of Martha Bulloch Roosevelt – mother of President Theodore Roosevelt) or Barrington Hall (former home of one of Roswell's founding families). Overall, Roswell's history reflects significant moments in American history - from Native American settlements to industrialization during the Antebellum period to destruction during the Civil War – all contributing factors that have shaped this charming Southern city into what it is today.
Pontoon boats are a popular type of recreational watercraft known for their stability, spaciousness, and versatility. They have become a staple in the boating industry and are widely used for activities such as fishing, partying, and cruising. The United States is one of the largest markets for pontoon boats, with several manufacturers located throughout the country. One such place that has played a significant role in the history of pontoon boat manufacturing is Roswell, Georgia. Roswell is a city located in northern Fulton County, Georgia. It was founded by Roswell King in 1839 as a cotton mill town on the banks of the Chattahoochee River. The city quickly grew to become an important industrial center during the Civil War due to its location near railroads and major rivers. In recent years, Roswell has transformed into a bustling suburban community with a thriving economy. The history of pontoon boat manufacturing in Roswell can be traced back to 1952 when three brothers – Dewey Wise Sr., H.E Wise Jr., and Raymond Wise – founded Bennington Marine Corporation (BMC). Initially established as an aluminum railing company serving local industries like poultry processing plants and textile mills, BMC soon began producing small aluminum rowboats as well. In 1968, BMC shifted its focus solely to building leisure boats after recognizing the growing demand for recreational watercrafts among Americans. This decision proved to be fruitful as they introduced their first line-up of fiberglass-hulled pleasure boats called "Bennington Boats" at Atlanta's Southeastern Boat Show later that year. With their new line-up gaining popularity among boaters across Georgia and neighboring states like Alabama and Tennessee; it wasn't long before Bennington Boats became synonymous with quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service within this region. During this time period from late-60s through early-90s; there were only few other competitors who could match the quality and innovation of Bennington Boats. However, as demand for pontoon boats increased across the country; many new manufacturers entered the market to capitalize on this trend. One such company was Harris FloteBote Inc., founded by Joe and Helen Harris in 1957 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. After experiencing success with their line-up of fiberglass runabout boats; they ventured into manufacturing aluminum pontoon boats in late-70s under a subsidiary called "Sun Cruiser". By early-80s; Sun Cruiser had become one of the leading names among recreational boaters looking for affordable yet stylish pontoons. In 1982, Sun Cruiser was acquired by Brunswick Corporation – a global leader in marine industry based out of Lake Forest, Illinois. This acquisition helped Sun Cruiser expand its production capabilities while also providing access to Brunswick's extensive dealer network. In 1993, Brunswick merged Sun Cruiser with another subsidiary called Land 'N' Sea Distributing Inc.; forming an independent business unit known as "Harris Kayot Marine" headquartered in Roswell. Under this new entity; Harris Kayot maintained its focus on building quality pontoons but now with the added advantage of being backed by one of world's largest marine companies. Throughout 90s and early-2000s; they introduced several innovative features like double bimini tops, integrated stereo systems and thicker gauge tubes that further enhanced performance and durability of their product line-up. Meanwhile at Bennington Boats; Dewey Wise Sr.'s son Steve took over reins from his father after he passed away in mid-80s. Under his leadership; Bennington continued to grow steadily throughout next two decades while maintaining strong presence within southeastern US region. By late-2000s however both these companies were facing stiff competition from newer players who were offering more affordable options without compromising too much on quality or features offered by established brands like Harris Kayot or Bennington. To remain competitive; Harris Kayot and Bennington Boats were both acquired by Polaris Industries Inc. in 2005 and 2006 respectively. Polaris Industries – an American multinational headquartered in Medina, Minnesota; is mostly known for its production of snowmobiles, ATVs and motorcycles under "Polaris" brand name. However since mid-90s; they have also diversified into marine industry through acquisitions of several other established names like Larson Boats (acquired in 1994), Ranger Boats (2011) and Marquis-Larson Boat Group (2018). After taking over management from Brunswick Corporation; Polaris has invested heavily to expand production capabilities at Roswell-based facilities while also introducing new lines such as "Cypress Cay", "Harris Cruiser" and "Aqua Patio". In recent years; these brands have become synonymous with modern styling, premium features, high-performance engines along with top-notch build quality that appeals to recreational boaters across US not just southeastern region where this story began almost seven decades ago. In conclusion, the history of pontoon boat manufacturing in Roswell, Georgia showcases the evolution of an industry that started small but grew significantly due to changing consumer preferences and advancements in technology. From humble beginnings as a railing company to becoming a leading manufacturer in the marine industry, companies like Bennington Marine Corporation laid the foundation for what would eventually become a booming market for pontoon boats. With the continued efforts of manufacturers like Harris Kayot Marine under Polaris Industries Inc., it's safe to say that Roswell will continue playing a key role in shaping the future of pontoon boat manufacturing in USA.
Introduction Pontoon boats have become increasingly popular in the United States over the past few decades. These versatile and durable vessels are perfect for leisurely cruises, fishing trips, and even watersports. With their spacious decks, comfortable seating, and stability on the water, pontoon boats offer a unique boating experience for families and friends. In this paper, we will explore some of the top pontoon boat manufacturers in the USA. 1) Bennington Bennington is one of the leading manufacturers of luxury pontoon boats in the US. Founded in 1997 by a group of industry veterans, Bennington has quickly risen to prominence with its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. The company offers a wide range of models that cater to different needs and budgets. One of Bennington's key strengths is its use of cutting-edge technology such as computer-aided design (CAD) software to create efficient hull designs that deliver superior performance on the water. Additionally, they use premium materials like anodized aluminum rails and stainless steel hardware to ensure durability. 2) Harris Boats Harris Boats has been building quality pontoons since 1958 when it was founded by Charles R Harris Sr., who had a passion for boating from an early age. Today, Harris Boats is known for producing premium pontoons with exceptional style and performance. The company prides itself on using state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques combined with skilled craftsmanship to create luxurious yet functional pontoons. They also pay close attention to details such as ergonomic seating layouts and intuitive controls to enhance user experience. 3) Sun Tracker Sun Tracker is another prominent name among pontoon boat manufacturers in the USA. This brand was established in 1983 by Johnny Morris who wanted to make boating more accessible for everyone without sacrificing quality or features. Sun Tracker offers affordable but well-built pontoons that are perfect for family outings or fishing trips. Their boats come with a variety of amenities such as comfortable lounges, ample storage space, and even built-in fish finders for the angler in you. 4) Crest Pontoons For over 60 years, Crest Pontoons has been setting the standard for excellence in pontoon boat manufacturing. The company is known for its innovative designs and commitment to using only the best materials and construction techniques. Crest offers a wide range of models that cater to different needs and preferences. They also offer customizable options so customers can create their dream pontoon boat. In addition to leisure pontoons, they also produce high-performance sport pontoons that are perfect for watersports enthusiasts. 5) Manitou Pontoon Boats Manitou Pontoon Boats was founded in 1986 by Scott VanWagenen who had a vision of creating premium quality pontoons that could outperform traditional fiberglass boats. Today, Manitou is known for its patented V-Toon technology which provides exceptional handling and performance on the water. The company offers a diverse lineup of luxury pontoons with various seating layouts and features to suit different boating styles. With an emphasis on innovation and customer satisfaction, Manitou has become one of the top choices among pontoon boat buyers in the USA. Conclusion In conclusion, there are many reputable pontoon boat manufacturers in the USA offering high-quality vessels with unique features and designs. Each brand mentioned above has its own strengths but all share a common goal - providing customers with an unforgettable boating experience. Whether it's cruising on calm waters or engaging in some thrilling watersports activities, these top manufacturers have something to offer for every type of boater.