Pontoon boats have become a staple in the boating industry, with their versatility and functionality making them a popular choice for recreational activities. While they are now commonly seen on lakes and rivers across the United States, their history can be traced back to Wichita, Kansas. The custom pontoon boat industry in Wichita began in the early 1950s when two brothers, Ambrose and Everett Weeres, were looking for a way to make fishing more enjoyable for their family. They wanted a small boat that could easily navigate shallow waters while providing enough space for multiple people to fish comfortably. After experimenting with various designs, they came up with the idea of using cylindrical steel barrels as flotation devices attached to a platform. Their first prototype was made from plywood and oil drums welded together. This design proved successful as it not only provided stability but also allowed the boat to float over obstacles like logs or sandbars without getting stuck. The brothers quickly realized that this invention had potential beyond just enhancing their fishing experience; thus began the birth of modern-day pontoon boats. In 1958, after perfecting their design and production process, the Weeres brothers established "Weeres Industries" in Richmond Township near St. Cloud, Minnesota. Their first official model was called “The Empress,” which featured an aluminum frame instead of plywood and was powered by an outboard motor. As word spread about these unique watercrafts’ abilities on shallow waters while providing ample space for leisure activities such as sunbathing or picnicking, demand grew rapidly. In response to this increasing popularity, other manufacturers started replicating this design across different parts of America. One such manufacturer was Earl Bentz who founded Triton Boats Inc., based out of Ashland City Tennessee in 1973. He saw potential in customizing pontoon boats according to individual needs rather than producing standard models sold by mass retailers at that time. His company became known for its high-quality, hand-built custom boats with advanced features such as hydraulic steering and reinforced aluminum tubes. The popularity of customized pontoon boats continued to soar in the 1980s, with more manufacturers joining the market. However, it wasn't until 1991 that Wichita became a major hub for custom pontoon boat production when Avalon Pontoons was established by three brothers - Jim Wolf, Bob Wolf and Jeff Wolf. Avalon Pontoons' establishment in Wichita brought significant growth to the city's economy. The company's success was built on producing high-end custom pontoon boats featuring luxury seating arrangements and state-of-the-art technology such as sound systems and LED lighting. Their focus on innovation and customization quickly made them one of the leading producers of premium pontoon boats in America. Today, several other companies have joined the ranks of these pioneers in customizing pontoon boats according to individual preferences. Among them is JC Manufacturing Inc., founded by John Cripe Sr. in North Webster Indiana during the mid-1960s. His company’s philosophy has always been centered around providing customers with a unique boating experience tailored to their needs while maintaining excellent quality standards. In addition to manufacturing companies, Wichita is also home to various dealerships specializing in selling custom pontoons from different manufacturers across America. These dealerships offer personalized services such as assisting customers with designing their dream boat or upgrading existing models with new features. Apart from being a hub for production and sales, Wichita also hosts an annual "Pontoontoberfest" event celebrating everything about this watercraft staple – from live entertainment to showcasing new models from local manufacturers. In conclusion, what started as an idea born out of necessity has now turned into a thriving industry worth millions of dollars annually thanks to early pioneers like Ambrose and Everett Weeres who revolutionized recreational boating forever. Today, customizable pontoons are not only used for fishing but have become a popular choice for various water activities such as skiing, tubing, and cruising. And as long as there is a demand for personalized leisure experiences on the water, custom pontoon boats will continue to evolve and thrive in Wichita, Kansas.
Pontoon boats are a popular choice for recreational boaters due to their versatility, stability, and spaciousness. However, not all pontoon boats are created equal. Custom pontoon boats offer an elevated level of customization and personalization that can cater to the specific needs and desires of each individual owner. A custom pontoon boat is a watercraft that has been designed and built according to the unique specifications of its owner. This means that every aspect of the boat, from its size and layout to its features and aesthetics, can be tailored to meet the exact requirements of the customer. The process of creating a custom pontoon boat begins with understanding the needs and preferences of the buyer. This involves detailed discussions between the manufacturer or builder and potential buyers about their intended use for the boat, desired features, budget constraints, etc. One key advantage of opting for a custom pontoon boat is that it allows owners to have complete control over every aspect of their vessel. They get to choose everything from seating arrangements and storage options to color schemes and materials used in construction. This level of personalization ensures that each custom pontoon boat is truly one-of-a-kind. Another significant benefit offered by custom pontoons is their ability to cater specifically to certain activities or lifestyles. For example, some people may want a fishing-oriented pontoon with specialized equipment like live wells or fish finders while others may prefer a party-oriented layout with ample seating space for entertaining guests on board. Custom pontoons also provide owners with greater flexibility when it comes time for maintenance or upgrades as they already know exactly how everything was built in case repairs need to be made down-the-line. In addition to these practical benefits, there's something special about owning something completely unique - especially when it's your own dreamboat! A custom-ponton provides an opportunity for owners express themselves through design choices - whether they're seeking classic elegance or modern innovation - allowing them create a boat that truly reflects their personality and lifestyle. Of course, with greater customization comes a higher price tag. Custom pontoon boats are generally more expensive than standard models due to the additional time, effort, and resources required for construction. However, many owners consider this cost worth it for the ability to have a boat tailored precisely to their needs and preferences. The process of building a custom pontoon boat is not an easy one. It requires extensive planning, skilled craftsmanship, and attention to detail at every stage of construction. Manufacturers or builders must work closely with buyers throughout the design process to ensure all specifications are met while also providing expert guidance on what may or may not be feasible. Moreover, as each custom pontoon is unique in its design and features, there's no "one-size-fits-all" approach when it comes to construction techniques. Builders will need to utilize various methods depending on the materials used in creating different aspects of the boat - such as aluminum frames versus fiberglass panels - making custom pontoons both labor-intensive and complex projects. Furthermore, sourcing high-quality materials can be challenging as well since they may need to be specially ordered based on individual requirements. This adds another layer of complexity but ultimately results in a superior final product built from top-of-the-line components. In conclusion, custom pontoon boats offer an extraordinary opportunity for boating enthusiasts who want something truly exceptional that meets their specific needs and desires on the water. They provide owners complete control over every aspect of their vessel while allowing them express themselves through design choices that reflect their style and lifestyle. While they come at a premium price point compared to standard models due to increased complexity during manufacturing processes involved – most would agree that these vessels are well worth it!
Wichita, Kansas has a rich history of boating and water recreation dating back to the late 19th century. In the early days, boats were primarily used for transportation and trade along the Arkansas River. However, as leisure activities became more popular in the early 20th century, custom pontoon boats began to emerge in Wichita. One of the first recorded instances of a custom pontoon boat being used in Wichita was during World War II. Due to rationing on materials such as steel, local residents turned to using wooden pontoons as an alternative for building their own boats. These homemade crafts often consisted of two or three logs strapped together with a platform on top for seating. In the post-war years, recreational boating continued to grow in popularity and demand for better quality and more comfortable vessels increased. This led to the production of larger custom pontoon boats made with aluminum frames and fiberglass pontoons. During this time period, several companies emerged that specialized in building custom pontoon boats specifically designed for navigating through shallow waters like those found along the Arkansas River near Wichita. One notable company was Crest Marine which opened its doors in 1957 and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality pontoons that could handle rough river conditions while still providing comfort and stability. In addition to recreational use, custom pontoon boats also played an important role in commercial fishing operations on nearby lakes such as Cheney Reservoir and El Dorado Lake. These lakes provided abundant opportunities for catching catfish, crappie, bass, walleye among other species which attracted many fishermen from all over Kansas. As technology advanced throughout the decades so did designs of custom pontoon boats manufactured by companies like Sun Tracker Boats based out of Springfield Missouri who introduced their first mass-produced family-style model called Party Barge® series at Bass Pro Shops stores nationwide beginning around 1983. Today, there is still a strong presence of custom pontoon boats in Wichita, with many local companies offering a variety of models to suit different needs and budgets. These modern pontoons are equipped with advanced features such as GPS systems, stereo systems, and even luxurious amenities like wet bars and changing rooms. Wichita is also home to several marinas and boat clubs which offer storage, maintenance services, and organized boating events for custom pontoon owners. The city's close proximity to the Arkansas River and various lakes makes it an ideal location for boaters of all levels. In recent years, there has been a surge in environmentally-friendly options for custom pontoon boats in Wichita. Electric-powered pontoons have become increasingly popular as they produce zero emissions, making them more eco-friendly than traditional gas-powered boats. Overall, the history of custom pontoon boats in Wichita reflects the city's love for water recreation and its continuous efforts to innovate and adapt to changing times. From humble homemade crafts on the river to sleek modern vessels equipped with cutting-edge technology, these versatile boats continue to play an important role in bringing people together on the beautiful waters of Kansas.
Wichita, Kansas is a bustling city located in the heart of the United States. Known as the “Air Capital of the World”, Wichita has a rich history and diverse culture that has shaped it into a vibrant and thriving community. History: The area now known as Wichita was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Wichita, Osage, and Pawnee. The first permanent settlement in this area was established by Jesse Chisholm in 1863. He built a trading post on the banks of the Arkansas River which later became known as Chisholm Creek. In 1870, settlers began to arrive in search of new opportunities and land to settle. The arrival of railroads in 1872 brought an economic boom to Wichita, making it a major hub for cattle drives from Texas to Kansas City. With its prime location at the intersection of several major trails and transportation routes, including the Chisholm Trail and Santa Fe Trail, Wichita quickly became a vital center for commerce and trade. In 1880, it officially became incorporated as a city with over 4,000 residents. Economy: Today's economy is still rooted in aviation but has expanded to include other industries such as healthcare services, manufacturing (especially aerospace), finance & insurance services,and education. This diversification has helped make Wichita one of Forbes’ Best Places for Business & Careers multiple times throughout recent years. Aviation remains one of its most significant industries with companies like Boeing Commercial Airplanes Division; Spirit AeroSystems – one world’s leading suppliers commercial airplane assemblies; Textron Aviation – manufacturer aircraft brands Beechcraft Cessna.; Bombardier Learjet manufacturer ; Airbus Americas Engineering - provides engineering design services support customers around world-is headquartered here too. Culture: Wichita boasts a unique blend of Midwestern charm with modern amenities. Its diverse population brings together people from all walks of life who share their traditions, customs, and cultures. The city is home to a variety of museums, art galleries, and cultural centers that showcase its history and heritage. One notable attraction in Wichita is the Old Cowtown Museum. This living history museum portrays life on the Kansas prairie during the late 19th century. Visitors can experience what it was like to be a cowboy or pioneer through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. Another popular destination is the Wichita Art Museum which houses a collection of American art spanning more than three centuries. It also hosts special exhibitions featuring renowned artists from around the world. The city’s downtown area has undergone significant revitalization in recent years with new restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment venues popping up. One notable addition to this vibrant scene is Intrust Bank Arena – an 15,000-seat multipurpose arena that hosts concerts, sporting events and family shows throughout the year. Outdoor Recreation: Wichita boasts over 125 parks that offer recreational activities for all ages such as hiking trails, playgrounds,and picnic areas making it an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts. The Arkansas River flows through town providing opportunities for fishingand water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The Keeper of the Plains statue stands at confluence Little Arkansas River Big Arkansas river-it serves as a symbol unity between Native American tribes white settlers who founded Wichita-also offers nightly light shows accompanied by music. Education: Wichita has a strong education system with several public school districts serving students from kindergarten through high school. Additionally,eight colleges/universities are located within its borders including Wichita State University – known for its research programs in aerospace engineeringand entrepreneurship; Friends University -a private Christian university offering undergraduate/graduate degrees; Newman University -a Catholic liberal arts institution;a technical college-and two community colleges: Butler Community College & Hutchinson Community College have satellite campuses here too Conclusion: In conclusion,Wichita,Kansas may not be as well-known as other major cities in the US, but it has a lot to offer. From its rich history and diverse culture to its booming economy and outdoor recreation opportunities, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.Its strong sense of community and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to live, work, and visit. As the saying goes “Everything Starts in Wichita”-and this statement couldn’t be truer for this dynamic city.
The history of custom pontoon boats can be traced back to the early 1950s, when a Minnesota farmer named Ambrose Weeres wanted to create a boat that was stable and safe enough for his family to use on their small lake. He came up with the idea of using cylindrical steel drums as flotation devices and attaching a simple platform on top. This basic design served as the foundation for what would become one of the most popular types of recreational boats in America. As demand grew for these unique watercrafts, other manufacturers began experimenting with different materials and designs. Aluminum pontoons were introduced in the late 1960s, providing lighter weight and better maneuverability. Fiberglass pontoons followed suit in the 1970s, offering even more flexibility in terms of customization. By the 1980s, custom pontoon boats had become increasingly popular among boaters looking for a versatile vessel that could be used for fishing, cruising or simply lounging on the water. These floating living rooms offered all of the comforts of home – including plush seating areas, wet bars and even built-in grills – making them ideal for day trips or longer excursions. During this time period, many manufacturers also began offering options such as full enclosures to protect against inclement weather and larger engines capable of achieving higher speeds. Customization options continued to expand throughout the next few decades with advancements in technology allowing for features like sound systems, GPS navigation systems and LED lighting. While there is no single inventor credited with creating custom pontoon boats as we know them today, industry leaders such as Bennington Marine have played a significant role in shaping their evolution over time. Established in 1997 by brothers Steve Vogel Sr., Keith Carpenter Jr., Jim Ginter Sr., Ron Watters Jr., Dave Foulkrod Jr., Larry Vandrunen Sr., Mike Boerema Sr., John Regan III , Todd Meier Sr., and Steve Vogel Jr., Bennington Marine has been at the forefront of innovation in this market for over two decades. Today, custom pontoon boats are more popular than ever before. They offer a unique combination of comfort, luxury and functionality that appeals to a wide range of boaters – from families looking for a fun day on the water, to retirees seeking a peaceful retreat. Advances in technology have made it possible to create larger and more sophisticated vessels with features like electric engines, solar panels and even underwater lighting. In addition to recreational use, custom pontoon boats have also found success as commercial vessels. Their stability makes them ideal for fishing charters or eco-tours, while their spacious layout allows for hosting events such as private parties or corporate outings. The future looks bright for custom pontoon boats as manufacturers continue to push the boundaries of design and technology. There is no doubt that these versatile watercrafts will continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and desires of boaters around the world. In conclusion, the history of custom pontoon boats is one filled with ingenuity, creativity and continuous improvement. From humble beginnings on a small Minnesota lake, they have become an iconic symbol of leisure on the water. With each passing year comes new advancements in design and technology that further enhance their appeal. It will be exciting to see where this evolution leads in years to come.
The history of custom pontoon boats can be traced back to the early 1950s, when a Minnesota farmer named Ambrose Weeres had an idea to create a stable and versatile watercraft that could navigate shallow waters. He used two long metal pontoons as the base for his design and added a wooden deck with seating on top. Weeres' invention quickly gained popularity among local residents who were looking for an affordable way to enjoy boating. As demand grew, Weeres began manufacturing his custom pontoon boats commercially in 1952 under the name "Empire Boat Co." In the following years, other manufacturers started producing their own versions of pontoon boats using different materials such as fiberglass and aluminum. However, it wasn't until the late 1960s that these watercraft became widely popular nationwide. During this time period, companies like Bennington Marine and Crestliner started mass-producing high-quality pontoons with more advanced features such as reinforced decks, comfortable seats, and powerful engines. Throughout the next few decades, there was a surge in innovation within the industry as manufacturers experimented with different designs and technologies. One notable advancement was the use of multi-hull designs which improved stability even further by adding additional pontoons on either side of the main ones. By incorporating advancements in technology from other areas such as automotive engineering and aerodynamics into their designs, manufacturers were able to create faster, more efficient custom pontoon boats that could handle rougher waters. This opened up new possibilities for recreational activities such as wakeboarding and tubing behind these versatile vessels. Customization also became increasingly popular during this time period. Customers now had options to choose from various layouts including fishing models equipped with live wells or luxury models featuring plush seating arrangements complete with onboard refrigerators or wet bars. Today's custom pontoon boat market continues to offer endless customization options along with state-of-the-art features such as GPS navigation systems and sound systems integrated into the vessel's structure. There are even custom pontoon boats specifically designed for commercial purposes such as water taxis or party barges. The versatility and practicality of custom pontoon boats have made them a staple in recreational boating, with sales continuing to increase year after year. From humble beginnings in rural Minnesota to modern-day luxury watercraft capable of accommodating large groups, the history of custom pontoon boats reflects a constant drive for innovation and improvement within the industry.
Wichita, Kansas is a city with a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. Located in south-central Kansas, Wichita has been shaped by its diverse population and significant events. Early Settlement The first known inhabitants of the area were Native American tribes such as the Wichita, Pawnee, and Osage. These nomadic tribes lived off the land and followed buffalo herds for survival. In 1833, brothers William Greiffenstein and George Siedhoff established a trading post on the banks of the Arkansas River to trade with these native tribes. This was one of the first permanent settlements in present-day Wichita. In 1863, Jesse Chisholm opened his trading post near what is now known as Chisholm Creek. The location served as an important stop on the famous Chisholm Trail which connected Texas cattle ranchers with railroads in Kansas for transportation to eastern markets. With this trail passing through Wichita's territory, it became an essential hub for cattle drives and helped develop its economy. Railroad Boom The establishment of railroad lines played a crucial role in shaping early Wichita’s development into a thriving city. In 1871, when entrepreneur Fredrick A.Old founded “town company” he named it after his hometown from Massachusetts – “Wichita.” By then, there were only about three dozen buildings in town comprising mainly of saloons and general stores. As more settlers flocked to take advantage of cheap land offers given by railroad companies around this time period; business boomed due to increased commerce opportunities supported by successful agriculture production brought forth by advances such as irrigation systems installed across Sedgwick County during this era. This increase led several industries' relocation efforts towards building factories including Cudahy Packing Company (1887), Coleman Lamp & Stove Company (1904) among others contributing significantly towards creating jobs which further fueled population growth within the city. Growth and Development With its strategic location as a transportation hub, Wichita continued to see growth and development in the late 19th century. In 1872, it became the county seat of Sedgwick County, leading to an influx of government offices and services. By this time, Wichita had also become known for its agriculture industry with wheat being one of its main crops. The discovery of oil in 1915 further boosted the economy and attracted more people to the city. In addition to economic growth, Wichita saw cultural developments in arts and education during this time period. In 1890, Fairmount College (now known as Wichita State University) was established followed by Mount Carmel Academy (now Newman University) in 1933. Along with these educational institutions came art galleries, museums, theaters, and other cultural landmarks that contributed to the city's identity. Air Capital of the World The early twentieth century marked a significant shift for Wichita as it transformed into a major aviation center. In 1929, Clyde Cessna opened his aircraft manufacturing company which later merged with other companies such as Beechcraft Corporation and Stearman Aircraft Company to form what is now known as Textron Aviation. The success of these aircraft companies led to Wichita’s nickname “Air Capital of the World” due to their production output during World War II when they supplied thousands of planes for military use. Modern-Day Economy Today, Wichita continues to be an important industrial center but has diversified its economy beyond just agriculture or aviation industries. It is home to several multinational corporations like Spirit AeroSystems Holdings Inc., Koch Industries Inc., Cargill Meat Solutions Corp., among others. Apart from these major employers; healthcare services have emerged strong over recent years creating new opportunities for jobs within medical facilities across town including Via Christi Health System – Kansas' largest employer along with Wesley Medical Center ranked high on top hospitals list nationally. Additionally, the city has also become a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation with its vibrant startup community. Cultural Diversity Wichita's diverse population is another aspect of its history that deserves recognition. Throughout its growth and development, people from different backgrounds have contributed to the city's culture. Since the late 19th century, immigrants from Germany, Russia, Sweden, and other European countries settled in Wichita bringing their customs and traditions. In more recent years, Wichita has welcomed refugees from various countries such as Vietnam, Somalia, Sudan, and Burma. This diversity can be seen in the variety of restaurants offering international cuisine throughout the city as well as cultural festivals celebrating different heritages. Conclusion From humble beginnings as a trading post on the prairie to becoming an important industrial center known around the world; Wichita’s history is one of resilience and adaptability. Its strategic location has played a significant role in shaping its growth and development over time. Today it stands tall among other cities in Kansas with a strong economy supported by diverse industries while preserving its unique cultural heritage. With continued efforts towards innovation and inclusivity; it is safe to say that Wichita will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Wichita, Kansas is a city rich in history and has played a significant role in shaping the state of Kansas as well as the United States. Native American tribes, such as the Wichita and Osage, were some of the earliest inhabitants of what is now known as Wichita. They lived along the banks of the Arkansas River, using it for transportation and hunting. The name "Wichita" comes from these Native American groups who called themselves Wíchita or Kitikiti'sh. In 1541, Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado became one of the first Europeans to visit this area when he traveled through present-day Kansas looking for gold. However, it wasn't until 1863 that permanent settlement began with Fort Wichita being established by Union soldiers during the Civil War to protect travelers on their way westward. Afterwards, cattle ranchers started settling in Wichita due to its location at a busy trading post between Texas and Missouri. In 1870, Jesse Chisholm opened up his famous trail which ran right through Wichita connecting Texas with Abilene in order to transport cattle northward. This led to an economic boom for Wichita with many businesses opening up along this trail. Incorporated officially in July 21st 1870 under Mayor James R Mead’s leadership; early growth was slow but steady thanks to railroad expansion westward into town which brought more settlers seeking opportunity beyond closed doors offered by Eastern states then still undergoing reconstruction after Civil war effects lingered on even years later. The discovery of oil near Eldorado spurred another wave of growth for Wichita starting around 1915. Oil companies flocked into town bringing jobs and money along with them leading to further development and diversification within various industries such as aviation manufacturing - earning itself nickname "Air Capital". During World War II, Boeing built several aircraft plants in Wichita producing thousands of B-29 bombers which were vital to the war effort. This solidified Wichita's reputation as a major aviation hub and helped pave the way for future growth in this industry. In 1954, Dwight D. Eisenhower, who grew up in Abilene just an hour away from Wichita, became the first president to visit the city while he was still in office. He gave a speech at McConnell Air Force Base and his visit brought national attention to Wichita. The Civil Rights Movement also had a significant impact on Wichita's history. In 1958, Dockum Drug Store became one of the first businesses in the United States to integrate its lunch counters after months of protests by local high school students. This event is now known as the "Dockum Sit-in" and is considered a pivotal moment in American civil rights history. Today, Wichita continues to thrive with a diverse economy that includes industries such as aerospace engineering, healthcare services, agriculture production, and higher education institutions like Wichita State University. In addition to its economic success, Wichita has also become known for its vibrant arts scene with numerous theaters, museums and galleries showcasing both local talent and international works. Overall, through wars and civil rights movements; booms and busts; natural disasters like floods or tornadoes - Wichitans have persevered time again proving their resilience throughout history till present day while remaining proud of their past accomplishments which continue shaping bright future ahead.
The history of custom pontoon boats in Wichita, Kansas dates back to the early 20th century when river transportation was a primary mode of travel and trade in the region. Pontoon boats were originally designed as a simple floating platform made up of two or more pontoons connected by a flat deck. These boats were used for various purposes such as fishing, hunting, and transportation on rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. In the late 19th century, the concept of pontoon boats evolved with the introduction of powered engines which made them more efficient for commercial use. The first recorded instance of a motorized custom pontoon boat being used in Wichita can be traced back to 1904 when local businessman James Hagerman built his own version to transport goods on the Arkansas River. As demand for faster and more versatile watercraft increased in Wichita during this time period, several companies began manufacturing custom pontoon boats specifically tailored to meet the needs of their customers. One such company was Stryker Boats founded by Charles Ruhl Sr., who had previously worked at Boeing Aircraft Company before venturing into boat building. Stryker Boats quickly gained popularity among locals due to its innovative designs and customization options that allowed customers to choose from various layouts including seating arrangements, storage compartments, and even specialized features like fishing platforms or diving boards. This level of personalization made Stryker Boats highly sought after not only in Wichita but also across neighboring states. During World War II, there was an increasing demand for lightweight vessels that could maneuver through shallow waters while carrying heavy cargo. This led Stryker Boats to develop all-aluminum pontoons which proved crucial for military operations along rivers during wartime. After WWII ended, these aluminum pontoons became popular with recreational boaters due to their durability and low maintenance costs compared to traditional wooden structures. In addition to Stryker Boats' success story as one of the leading manufacturers of custom pontoon boats in Wichita, other local businesses also emerged during this time period. One notable example is Sumerset Houseboats founded by Jim Sharpe and Bill Barrington in 1958. The company specialized in building luxury houseboats on pontoons which could accommodate large groups for leisurely cruises along the Arkansas River. Throughout the 20th century, custom pontoon boats continued to evolve with advancements in technology and materials. In the 1970s, fiberglass became a popular material for boat construction due to its strength and resistance to corrosion. This led to companies like Sun Tracker Boats being established in Wichita, offering customers a wide range of customization options using fiberglass pontoons. The popularity of custom pontoon boats reached its peak in the late 1980s when they were featured prominently on television shows such as "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous." This exposure helped fuel even more demand for luxurious pontoons among high-end clientele who wanted a unique boating experience. Today, there are numerous companies in Wichita specializing in custom pontoon boat manufacturing and sales such as Bennington Marine, Premier Pontoons, Crest Pontoons, just to name a few. These companies continue to innovate with new designs and features while keeping up with modern trends such as adding stereo systems or LED lighting. In recent years, there has been a shift towards eco-friendly options for boaters and this has not gone unnoticed by manufacturers in Wichita. Companies like Eldebo Electric Boats have emerged offering electric-powered custom pontoon boats that produce zero emissions making them ideal for recreational use on lakes or rivers without any negative impact on the environment. Custom pontoon boats have come a long way since their humble beginnings as simple floating platforms used by fishermen over a century ago. They have become an integral part of life along waterways throughout Kansas providing endless opportunities for recreation and leisure activities while also contributing significantly to local economies. In conclusion, the history of custom pontoon boats in Wichita, Kansas is a testament to the city's long-standing relationship with water and its continuous efforts to adapt and innovate. From their early days as primary modes of transportation on rivers to becoming luxury vessels for recreational use, custom pontoon boats have played an important role in shaping the culture and economy of Wichita. With ongoing advancements in technology, it will be interesting to see how these versatile watercraft continue to evolve and thrive in the years ahead.
Custom pontoon boats have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their versatility, durability, and customization options. These unique watercrafts offer a wide range of features and designs that cater to the individual needs and preferences of boat enthusiasts. In this paper, we will explore the history of custom pontoon boats, their various uses, and the process of creating a personalized pontoon boat. History Pontoon boats have been around for centuries but were primarily used as ferries or barges for transporting goods across rivers. It wasn't until 1952 when Ambrose Weeres created the first modern-day version by welding two columns of steel barrels together with a wooden deck on top. This design was initially called "The Empress" and was mainly used for fishing and leisure activities. In the 1960s, fiberglass pontoons were introduced, making them more durable and easier to maintain than their steel counterparts. As technology advanced, so did pontoon boats' design capabilities, leading to today's customizable options. Uses Custom pontoon boats are incredibly versatile vessels that can be used for various purposes such as recreational boating, fishing trips, water sports activities like tubing or skiing, or simply cruising around on calm waters. Recreational Boating: Custom pontoons are ideal for family outings or group gatherings as they offer ample space for passengers to relax comfortably while enjoying the beautiful scenery. Many custom models come equipped with features like built-in grills and refrigerators perfect for hosting cookouts on board. Fishing Trips: Pontoon boats are also widely used by fishermen due to their stability on the water compared to traditional fishing boats. The spacious layout allows anglers to move freely without worrying about tipping over while reeling in big catches. Some custom-built pontoons even come with fishfinders and live wells specially designed for avid fishermen. Water Sports Activities: With powerful engines available in most customized models nowadays, these boats are also perfect for thrilling water sports such as tubing, wakeboarding, and skiing. The open deck design allows for easy movement and provides enough space to store equipment. Cruising: Custom pontoon boats provide a smooth ride on the water, making them ideal for leisurely cruises around lakes or rivers. With comfortable seating options and plenty of storage space, passengers can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings while soaking up some sun. Creating a Custom Pontoon Boat The process of creating a custom pontoon boat starts with selecting the right manufacturer or builder who will work closely with you to bring your vision to life. The first step is choosing the size and style of your vessel based on its intended use. You can opt for a traditional two-tube pontoon or go for more stability with three tubes, known as tritoons. Next comes selecting the layout of your boat's interior, which includes features like seating arrangements, tables, bars, grills, refrigerators, sinks, and even bathrooms. Many manufacturers offer pre-designed layouts that you can customize further according to your needs. Once you have chosen all the necessary features for your custom pontoon boat's interior design comes selecting the exterior finishes. This could include colors or patterns for upholstery fabric; vinyl flooring options; graphic designs on pontoons' sides; paint color choices; LED lighting options under seats or along rails; canopy color choices among others. Additionally, many customization options allow owners to add amenities such as sound systems complete with speakers strategically placed throughout the vessel so everyone onboard has an immersive experience when listening to music while cruising on their custom-built pontoon boat. Safety Features Custom pontoons come equipped with various safety features designed to ensure passengers' well-being during their time out on the water. These may include: - Safety gates: Pontoons typically have gates at each entry point that lock securely in place. - Life jackets: All custom-built pontoons come with a specified number of life jackets on board for everyone's safety. - Fire extinguisher: In case of emergencies, custom-built pontoons are equipped with fire extinguishers to prevent any potential accidents. - Navigation lights: These lights ensure the boat is visible at night and help other boaters see it as well, preventing collisions. Maintenance and Upkeep Maintaining a custom pontoon boat is relatively easy compared to other watercraft. Regular cleaning after each use can prevent buildup of dirt or grime that can lead to corrosion over time. It is also recommended to have your engine serviced annually by a professional mechanic to keep it running smoothly. In addition, manufacturers provide warranties for parts such as engines, upholstery fabric, and flooring materials that may need repairs or replacements in the future. In conclusion, the popularity of custom pontoon boats continues to grow due to their versatility and customization options. From recreational activities like fishing trips or water sports adventures to leisurely cruises around lakes or rivers, these vessels offer something for every type of boater. With careful planning and collaboration between owner and manufacturer, a personalized pontoon boat can be created that meets all your needs while providing an unforgettable experience out on the water.