Pontoon Bristol Tennessee

Pontoon

Drakkar Pontoon
Drakkar QL Series
Price Contact your dealer
Lengths
  • 21'
  • 23'
  • 25'
  • Ultra-comfortable
  • Swim platform
  • Best equipped
See the DRAKKAR QL series
Drakkar Pontoon
Drakkar RB Series
Price Contact your dealer
Lengths
  • 21'
  • 23'
  • 25'
  • Ultra-comfortable
  • Swim platform
  • Best equipped
See the DRAKKAR RB series
Drakkar Pontoon
Drakkar SB Series
Price Contact your dealer
Lengths
  • 21'
  • 23'
  • 25'
  • Ultra-comfortable
  • Swim platform
  • Best equipped
See the DRAKKAR SB series
Saphir Pontoon
Saphir CR Series
Price Contact your dealer
Lengths
  • 19'
  • 21'
  • 23'
  • Affordable
  • User-friendly
  • Well equipped
See the Saphir CR series
Saphir Pontoon
Saphir SB Series
Price Contact your dealer
Lengths
  • 19'
  • 21'
  • 23'
  • Affordable
  • User-friendly
  • Well equipped
See the Saphir SB series
Zen Pontoon
Zen Series
Price Contact your dealer
Lengths
  • 14'
  • 16'
  • 18'
  • Affordable
  • User-friendly
  • A fully equipped eco
See the Zen series

Dealers

Being in full expansion, we are looking for new dealers for unserved territories! Contact us!

Pontoon boats have been a popular form of watercraft for decades, providing a fun and versatile way to explore lakes and rivers. While their origins can be traced back to ancient times, the modern pontoon boat as we know it has a rich history that is deeply rooted in Bristol, Tennessee. The city of Bristol sits on the border between Tennessee and Virginia, with the Appalachian Mountains serving as its breathtaking backdrop. It was here in 1952 that Ambrose Weir first introduced what would become known as the "modern" pontoon boat. He had seen fishermen using wooden platforms supported by barrels or logs on local lakes and thought there must be a better way to create stable floating structures. Weir's solution was brilliant yet simple – he welded together two steel drums and added decking on top to create a flat surface for people to stand or sit on. This design proved to be incredibly successful, providing stability and versatility while also being relatively easy to maneuver. Weir's company, Browning Manufacturing Company, quickly gained popularity among locals who were looking for an affordable option for leisurely boating. The demand grew even more when word spread about how well these boats performed during fishing trips. In the years following its inception, Browning Manufacturing Company continued to refine its designs and add new features such as outboard motors, steering wheels, comfortable seating options, and even roofs for shade. These advancements made pontoon boats even more attractive not just for recreational use but also for commercial purposes such as ferrying people across bodies of water or transporting goods. Bristol became increasingly known as "the birthplace of modern pontoon boats," attracting visitors from all over who wanted to experience this revolutionary type of watercraft firsthand. As sales increased throughout the 1960s and 1970s, other manufacturers began producing their own versions based on Weir's original design. One notable manufacturer was Harris FloteBote which opened shop in Bristol in the late 1960s. They became known for their high-quality pontoons and innovative features such as aluminum floors, fiberglass decks, and custom graphics. Harris FloteBote's success helped boost Bristol's economy, providing jobs and attracting more tourists to the city. The popularity of pontoon boats continued to grow throughout the 1980s and 1990s as new manufacturers entered the market with even more advanced designs. In addition to recreational use, pontoon boats were also being used for various commercial purposes including water taxis, party barges, and rescue operations. Today, pontoon boats are a staple on lakes and rivers all over the world. While advancements in technology have led to sleeker designs with more luxurious features such as built-in bars or stereo systems, they still hold true to Weir's original concept of stability and versatility. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in pontoon boats among younger generations who are drawn to their affordability and eco-friendliness compared to other types of watercraft. This renewed interest has prompted manufacturers in Bristol (and beyond) to continue innovating with new materials like composites or electric motors. Bristol remains a hub for all things related to pontoon boats – from manufacturing companies like Browning Manufacturing Company that started it all to dealerships offering boat rentals or sales. The city celebrates its history every year through events such as "Pontoon Boat Days" where people can gather together on these beloved vessels while enjoying live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. In conclusion

Pontoon, also known as Twenty-One or Vingt-et-Un, is a popular card game that has been played for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to 15th century Spain, where it was first mentioned in literature as “Veintiuna” (Spanish for twenty-one). Over the years, pontoon has evolved and spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to America. The basic premise of pontoon is similar to other casino games such as blackjack and baccarat – players aim to beat the dealer’s hand without going over a total of 21 points. However, there are some key differences that make pontoon stand out from other card games. One of the main distinguishing features of pontoon is its terminology. In this game, players use unique terms instead of the standard “hit”, “stand”, or “double down”. For example, when asking for another card from the dealer, players say "twist" instead of "hit". Additionally, if a player wishes to double their bet after receiving two cards they say "buy" instead of "double down". Another significant difference between pontoon and other card games is how hands are valued. In most variations of blackjack and baccarat, an ace can either have a value of one or eleven depending on what benefits the player’s hand more. In contrast, in Pontoon an ace always counts as eleven points which adds an extra layer of strategy to gameplay. Moreover, unlike traditional blackjack where only one player faces off against the dealer at any given time; in pontoon all players compete against each other while trying to beat the dealer's hand. This creates a more dynamic playing experience where not only do you have to consider your own cards but also take into account what actions others may take. Additionally, one interesting aspect about pontoon is that it allows players to split up their initial two-card hand multiple times if both cards are equal in value. This means that if a player is dealt two queens, they can split them into two separate hands and play each one individually. This adds an extra element of excitement to the game as players have more opportunities to win. Pontoon also offers different payout ratios depending on how players achieve their hand total of 21 points. For example, if a player has five cards and his or her total equals 21, it pays out at 2:1 ratio instead of the standard 3:2 ratio for traditional blackjack. Moreover, another unique aspect of pontoon is that there are specific bonus payouts for achieving certain hands such as five-card tricks (five cards totaling less than 21) and six-card tricks (six cards totaling less than 21). These bonuses can significantly increase a player’s winnings and add an extra layer of excitement to the game. One key factor that makes pontoon different from other card games is its high level of strategy involved. As mentioned earlier, all players compete against each other in this game which means you not only have to focus on your own hand but also keep track of what others may be doing. Players must carefully consider their actions based on their own hand as well as what cards the dealer may have face down. In addition, there are several strategies used by experienced pontoon players to gain an edge over others such as counting cards or tracking patterns in gameplay. However, unlike blackjack where card counting is frowned upon, it is widely accepted in pontoon and even encouraged among skilled players. Furthermore, pontoon offers various betting options that make it appealing to both casual gamblers and high rollers alike. The minimum bet required at most casinos for playing pontoon ranges from $5-$10 while maximum bets can go up into thousands depending on the casino's rules. Despite its similarities with other popular card games like blackjack and baccarat; Pontoon remains relatively unknown compared to these household names. This is due to the fact that it has not been marketed as extensively as other games and is mostly played in casinos in Australia, Singapore, and some parts of Europe. However, in recent years there has been a growing interest in pontoon with the rise of online gambling. Many online casinos now offer pontoon as one of their main attractions, allowing players from all over the world to experience this exciting game without having to travel to physical casinos. In conclusion, pontoon may not be as well known as other card games but it certainly offers a unique and thrilling playing experience for those who are willing to give it a try. Its blend of terminology, strategic gameplay, and various betting options make it an appealing choice for both novice and experienced gamblers alike. With its rich history and constant evolution, pontoon will continue to be enjoyed by many for years to come.

Pontoon boats have a long and storied history in Bristol, Tennessee. The city is home to one of the oldest and most renowned pontoon boat manufacturers in the country, Premier Pontoons. Founded in 1992 by brothers Bob and Bill Menne, Premier Pontoons has become synonymous with quality and innovation in the industry. However, the use of pontoons for recreational purposes can be traced back much further than just a few decades. In fact, it dates back to ancient times when flat-bottomed rafts were used for fishing and transportation on rivers and lakes. In more recent history, pontoon boats were first developed as means of transport along waterways during the early 20th century. They were primarily used for hauling goods such as coal or timber but also served as ferries for people traveling across bodies of water. During World War II, pontoons played a crucial role in military operations. They were used to transport troops and supplies across rivers and other bodies of water during battles. It wasn't until after the war that pontoon boats started being used for recreational purposes. In Bristol specifically, this was largely due to its location near several popular lakes including South Holston Lake, Boone Lake, Watauga Lake, and Cherokee Lake. As demand grew for leisure activities on these lakes, so did interest in using pontoons as pleasure crafts. This led local entrepreneurs like Bob Menne to start experimenting with different designs and features that would make them more comfortable and enjoyable for recreational use. One of these innovations was adding an outboard motor instead of relying solely on paddles or oars for propulsion. This allowed pontoons to move faster through the water making them ideal not only for fishing but also cruising around the lake with family or friends. Over time,pontoon design continued to evolve with new features like built-in furniture such as loungers,and even wet bars becoming commonplace.Most notably,Premier Pontoons,pioneered the use of foam-filled pontoons,which provided better stability and buoyancy for the boats. Today, pontoon boats are a popular choice for recreational boaters in Bristol and beyond. They offer a versatile and affordable option for enjoying time on the water with family and friends. And thanks to companies like Premier Pontoons, they continue to evolve with new technologies and features that make them even more comfortable and enjoyable. In addition to being a hub for pontoon manufacturing, Bristol is also home to several marinas offering rentals, sales, service,and storage options for these boats. The city also hosts an annual "Pontoon Palooza" event celebrating all things pontoon-related including boat races,fishing tournaments,and live music. Overall,the history of pontoons in Bristol,Tennessee showcases not only their practical uses,but also how they have transformed into beloved leisure crafts enjoyed by many today. From ancient rafts used for fishing,to innovative designs designed by local entrepreneurs,pontoon boats have come a long way in this Southern town known as "The Birthplace of Country Music."

Bristol, Tennessee is a charming city located in the northeastern corner of the state. It is situated on the border of Virginia and Tennessee, with its twin city Bristol, Virginia just across State Street. The city boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and strong community spirit that makes it stand out as one of the most desirable places to live in the entire state. History: The history of Bristol can be traced back to 1853 when it was first established as a small town named Sapling Grove. However, it wasn't until 1890 that it was officially incorporated as "Bristol". The name came from its location at an important crossroads between two major routes – The Great Valley Road and Wilderness Road. During the Civil War, Bristol served as an important strategic point for both Union and Confederate forces due to its proximity to rail lines. In fact, there were several skirmishes fought here during this time. After the war ended, Bristol experienced steady growth with industries like lumbering and coal mining becoming prominent. Music Heritage: One thing that sets Bristol apart from other cities is its deep-rooted music heritage. Known as "The Birthplace of Country Music", it is where some of early country music's biggest stars got their start. In 1927 Ralph Peer recorded artists such as Jimmie Rodgers and The Carter Family at what became known as “the Big Bang” or “the single most important event in American musical history”. This eventually led to the establishment of record labels like RCA Victor Records being headquartered here in Bristol. Today visitors can learn more about this rich musical legacy by visiting places like Birthplace Of Country Music Museum which explores how traditional Appalachian folk music merged with African-American blues traditions into what we now know today as country music. Attractions: Aside from its historical significance in music culture,Bristol offers plenty for tourists looking for things to do while exploring this charming southern town.The downtown area itself has been revitalized in recent years and is now home to a variety of unique shops, restaurants, and cafes. One popular attraction is the Bristol Motor Speedway, known as "The Last Great Colosseum" it's one of the most famous NASCAR race tracks in the country. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and camping at nearby state parks like Steele Creek Park or South Holston Lake. The city also hosts several festivals throughout the year including Rhythm & Roots Reunion which celebrates Bristol's music heritage with live performances from various artists. Community: One thing that stands out about Bristol is its strong sense of community. This can be seen through events like Downtown Dayz where locals come together to celebrate their town with food trucks, live music, and street vendors. Another example is The Birthplace Of Country Music Museum which relies heavily on volunteers from within the community to help preserve this important piece of history. In addition to these events,the city has also made strides towards becoming more environmentally sustainable. In 2019,Bristol was named a Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Platinum-level Sustainable Community – making it only one of three cities in all of TVA’s service territory to achieve this designation. Economy: Bristol has a diverse economy with major industries including healthcare, manufacturing,and tourism. Some notable companies headquartered here include Wellmont Health System and Strongwell Corporation.While tourism may not seem like a major industry,it brings in millions each year thanks to attractions such as racing at Bristol Motor Speedway or shopping at Pinnacle Retail Development -home to over 75 retailers and restaurants.The success of these businesses directly impacts local employment rates making it an attractive place for job seekers looking for new opportunities. Education: Bristol places great importance on education with quality schools available for students ranging from preschool age through college level programs.Some notable educational institutions include King University,Northeast State Community College,and Virginia Highlands Community College.These schools offer a variety of programs in fields such as business,healthcare, and engineering. Conclusion: Bristol,Tennessee is a city that offers something for everyone. From its rich history to its vibrant music culture and strong sense of community,it's no wonder it has become an increasingly popular place to live or visit. With its diverse economy,growing job market,and commitment to sustainability,it continues to thrive and attract people from all over the country. If you're ever in the area, be sure not to miss out on experiencing this charming southern gem for yourself!

Pontoon, also known as “Twenty-One”, is a popular card game that has been enjoyed by millions of people for centuries. While its exact origins are unknown, it is believed to have originated in France during the 18th century and spread throughout Europe before making its way to America. The History of Pontoon The earliest mention of a game resembling pontoon can be found in Miguel de Cervantes’ novel “Rinconete y Cortadillo” published in 1613. The novel describes a game called “ventiuna” or twenty-one, which was played with a deck of Spanish cards. It is speculated that this could be an early version of pontoon. In the early 1700s, French colonists brought their own version of the game to North America where it was known as “Vingt-et-Un” or Twenty-One. It quickly gained popularity among gamblers and was often played in gambling houses across New Orleans. During the 19th century, pontoon became even more widespread as European immigrants brought their love for the game with them to America. However, at this time it was still mostly played within the gambling community and not yet considered a mainstream form of entertainment. It wasn’t until the late 1800s when Nevada legalized gambling that pontoon started gaining recognition as a legitimate casino game. In fact, many historians credit Nevada’s legalization for propelling pontoon into mainstream popularity. In addition to being played in casinos, pontoon also became popular among soldiers during World War I who would play it during breaks from fighting. The simplicity and fast-paced nature of the game made it ideal for passing time while boosting morale amongst troops. Evolution into Blackjack As pontoon continued to grow in popularity throughout America and Europe, minor variations began appearing over time depending on where it was being played. One such variation occurred when American casinos began offering bonuses for specific hands such as a Jack of Spades and an Ace of Spades, which became known as “blackjack”. This bonus eventually led to the game being renamed from pontoon to blackjack. Another significant change occurred in the 1930s when casinos introduced the rule that a player’s hand must beat the dealer's hand in order for them to win. This gave players a higher chance of winning and made blackjack even more appealing. With these changes, blackjack quickly surpassed pontoon in popularity and became one of the most widely played casino games around the world. However, pontoon continues to be popular among some gambling communities who prefer its original rules and gameplay. Modern Day Pontoon Today, pontoon is still enjoyed by many people around the world but has evolved into different variations depending on where it is played. In Australia for example, they have their own version called “Australian Pontoon” which features slightly different rules than traditional pontoon or blackjack. In addition, with technology advancements allowing for online gambling, virtual versions of pontoon are now available on various online casino platforms. This has made it possible for people to enjoy playing at any time without having to leave their homes. Conclusion Pontoon may have started out as a simple card game played by French colonists and soldiers during breaks from battle but has since evolved into one of the most popular casino games worldwide. Its journey from France through Europe and eventually America showcases how it has adapted over time while maintaining its core elements. Whether you know it as Twenty-One or Blackjack, there is no denying that this centuries-old game will continue to be enjoyed by millions of people across generations and cultures around the world. Its rich history only adds to its appeal making it not just a fun pastime but also an important part of our cultural heritage.

Pontoon boats have a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times. The concept of using floating platforms for transportation and leisure has been around for centuries, but it wasn't until the 1950s that modern pontoon boats as we know them today were developed. The first recorded use of pontoons can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where they were used to transport goods and people across bodies of water. They were typically made from logs tied together with ropes or vines and covered with reeds or animal hides. In the 16th century, Native Americans in North America used dugout canoes made from hollowed-out tree trunks as their main mode of transportation on rivers and lakes. These primitive vessels could carry heavy loads and navigate shallow waters easily. As European settlers arrived in North America, they brought with them their own boat-building techniques. One popular method was the use of flat-bottomed wooden barges called "bateaux." These bateaux were used for ferrying people and supplies across rivers and lakes. In the early 20th century, recreational boating became increasingly popular among wealthy Americans. Wealthy families would often take trips on large houseboats powered by steam engines or electric motors. These houseboats provided a luxurious way to travel while also serving as a vacation home on the water. However, these large houseboats proved challenging to maneuver in smaller bodies of water due to their size and weight. This sparked the idea for a more compact vessel that could still provide ample space for leisure activities such as fishing or sunbathing. The first modern pontoon boat was invented by Ambrose Weeres in Minnesota in 1952. He welded two columns supporting a wooden platform onto an aluminum frame connected by two steel U-channels creating what he called “the poor man’s yacht.” This new design allowed for better stability on the water while maintaining ease of movement through shallower waters. By the 1960s, pontoon boats had gained popularity as a recreational vessel for fishing and leisure activities. Manufacturers began to experiment with different designs, materials, and features to improve performance and comfort on the water. In the 1970s, fiberglass pontoons were introduced, providing a more durable and low-maintenance alternative to aluminum pontoons. This allowed manufacturers to design larger pontoon boats with multiple decks and amenities such as bathrooms, kitchens, and sleeping quarters. Today's pontoon boats come in a variety of sizes and configurations to fit every need and budget. They are commonly used for fishing, watersports, partying or simply cruising around lakes or rivers. With modern advancements in technology such as GPS navigation systems and powerful engines, pontoon boats have become even more versatile than ever before. Pontoon boat ownership has also evolved over time from being exclusively owned by wealthy individuals or businesses to now being accessible for people of all income levels. Renting pontoon boats is also a popular option at many marinas and resorts making it easier for anyone to enjoy this boating experience. Overall, the evolution of pontoon boats has transformed them from basic transportation vessels into luxurious floating homes that provide endless hours of fun on the water for people all over the world.

Bristol, Tennessee is a small city located in the northeastern corner of the state, nestled between the Appalachian Mountains and the Holston River. It may be small in size, with a population of just over 26,000 people, but it has a rich history that dates back to pre-colonial times. The area now known as Bristol was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cherokee and Shawnee. These indigenous peoples lived off of the land and had a strong connection to nature. Evidence of their presence can still be found today in archaeological sites scattered throughout the region. In 1673, English explorers led by Thomas Batts and Robert Fallam ventured into what is now known as Sullivan County (where Bristol is located) during their expedition through Virginia and Tennessee. They were followed by other European settlers who were drawn to this fertile land for farming opportunities. By 1760, pioneers from Pennsylvania established Fort Watauga near what is now Elizabethton, about 20 miles east of Bristol. This fortified settlement served as protection against attacks by Native Americans during conflicts like the French and Indian War. As more settlers moved into this part of Tennessee in search of better lives for themselves and their families, several towns began to emerge along important trade routes such as The Great Road (later renamed State Route 1). One such town was Sapling Grove (now Blountville), which became an important stagecoach stop for travelers passing through on their way westward. However, it wasn't until two brothers from North Carolina came across this area while hunting that Bristol truly began to take shape. In December 1852, James King Rodgers Jr., also known as "Colonel Jack," purchased land at present-day downtown Bristol from John Carter Sr., who owned thousands of acres around Sapling Grove. Rodgers saw potential in this location due to its strategic position at the crossroads between The Great Road and the Old Stage Road, which connected Virginia to Kentucky. He built a large log house and opened a general store, post office, and inn for travelers. The town grew quickly as more people settled in the area, attracted by its fertile land for farming and abundant natural resources like timber. In 1856, Rodgers officially named his new town "Bristol" after Bristol, England – perhaps inspired by its location at the border between Tennessee and Virginia. With the growth of the railroad industry in the late 19th century, Bristol became an important hub for commerce. The East Tennessee & Western North Carolina Railroad was established in 1868 with Bristol as one of its major stops. This led to further economic development and population growth in the city. In 1890, Bristol made history when it became home to one of America's first commercial recordings studios – The First Commercial Recording Studio – founded by Ralph Peer. This studio recorded popular artists such as Jimmie Rodgers (no relation to James King Rodgers Jr.) and later served as inspiration for Nashville's Music Row. Throughout the early 20th century, Bristol continued to thrive as a center of commerce with industries ranging from agriculture to manufacturing. It also played a significant role during World War II when it served as home to Camp Shelby Army Base where soldiers were trained before being deployed overseas. Today, Bristol is known not only for its rich history but also for several annual events that draw visitors from all over including Rhythm & Roots Reunion music festival held every September since 2001; NASCAR races at nearby Bristol Motor Speedway; Bass Pro Shops NRA Night Race; Food City Supermarket chain headquarters located here along with other locally owned businesses that make up Downtown Historic District listed on National Register of Historic Places- highlighting diverse architectural styles seen throughout downtown area’s buildings dating back over two centuries! In conclusion, while small in size compared to other cities in Tennessee like Nashville or Memphis, Bristol has a fascinating history that has shaped it into the vibrant and unique city it is today. From its early days as a frontier settlement to its role in the recording industry and beyond, Bristol continues to be a place where past, present, and future converge.

Bristol, Tennessee is a small city located in the northeastern tip of the state, bordering Virginia. It was first settled in 1771 by Evan Shelby and his family, who were attracted to the area's rich farmland and abundant natural resources. The town was originally known as Sapling Grove but was officially named Bristol when it was incorporated in 1856. One of the defining moments in Bristol's history occurred during the Civil War when it became an important strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces. The Battle of Bristol took place on September 9, 1864, where Confederate troops successfully defended against a Union cavalry raid led by General Stephen Burbridge. This battle helped secure the region for Confederate control throughout most of the war. In addition to its role in the Civil War, Bristol also played a significant part in early American music history. In July of 1927, Ralph Peer from Victor Records set up a temporary recording studio at what is now known as "The Birthplace of Country Music," where he recorded some of country music's earliest stars such as Jimmie Rodgers and The Carter Family. This event is often referred to as "The Big Bang" or "The Bristol Sessions" because it marked one of the first commercial recordings of traditional Appalachian folk music that would go on to influence generations of artists. During World War II, Bristol experienced an economic boom due to its production of military equipment and materials. Companies like Tennessee Eastman Corporation (now Eastman Chemical Company) contributed greatly to this effort by producing chemicals used for explosives and other wartime necessities. Throughout much of its history, Bristol has been considered primarily an agricultural community with farming playing a vital role in its economy. However, over time industries such as manufacturing have become major contributors to its growth and development. Today, tourism has also become an essential aspect of life in Bristol thanks to events like NASCAR races at nearby Bristol Motor Speedway which attract thousands of visitors each year. The city also hosts an annual Rhythm and Roots Reunion music festival, celebrating Bristol's musical heritage. In addition to its economic growth and cultural achievements, Bristol has also been a leader in civil rights movements. In the 1950s and '60s, local African American students took part in sit-ins at segregated lunch counters and theaters as part of the Civil Rights Movement. These protests helped bring about desegregation in the city. Bristol continues to thrive today with a strong sense of community pride and a dedication to preserving its rich history. Through its diverse industries, booming tourism, and commitment to progress, it remains a unique blend of small-town charm and modern innovation.

Bristol, Tennessee is a small city nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. With a population of just over 27,000 residents, it may seem like an unlikely place for pontoon history to thrive. However, Bristol has a rich and storied past when it comes to this unique and versatile watercraft. The origins of the pontoon boat can be traced back to ancient times, with early forms being used by various civilizations for fishing and transportation on lakes and rivers. But it wasn't until the mid-20th century that Bristol became known as one of the birthplaces of modern-day pontoons. In 1948, Ambrose Weeres built his first aluminum pontoon boat in Richmond, Minnesota. This revolutionary design featured two cylindrical floats connected by a deck platform, providing stability and buoyancy on water. The idea quickly caught on and other manufacturers began producing their own versions of these boats. One such manufacturer was Johnson Outdoors Inc., which established its manufacturing facility in Bristol in 1952. Led by founder Howard Aiken Johnson Jr., they were among the first companies to mass-produce affordable pontoon boats for recreational use. At this time, Bristol became known as "Pontoon City" due to numerous factories producing pontoons along its main river – Holston River – including Eldean Boat Co., Alumacraft Boats Corp., Starcraft Marine Division Corporation (now Smoker Craft), Holsclaw Brothers Inc., Cumberland Plastics Company (CPC) ,and others. These companies employed hundreds of local workers who constructed thousands upon thousands of pontoons every year. By the late 1960s, there were several hundred models available from dozens of manufacturers across America; however most were made within a few miles radius around Bristol or at least within Tennessee state borders; hence why some call them "the original Tennessee Pontoons." With an abundance of skilled laborers and access to the Holston River, Bristol became a hub for pontoon production. The town's economy was heavily reliant on this industry, with many residents working in the factories or providing services to support it. In addition to being manufactured in Bristol, pontoons were also popular among locals for recreational use. With numerous lakes and rivers nearby, they were ideal for fishing, water skiing and leisurely cruises. Pontoons quickly became a staple of summer activities for families and friends in Bristol. One of the most iconic events in Bristol's history involving pontoons is the "Great Race." This annual event began in 1978 as a friendly competition between two local boat dealerships – White Anchor Marine and Beaver Creek Marina – to see who could build the fastest pontoon boat. Over time, it grew into an internationally recognized race that draws thousands of spectators each year. The Great Race is not only a celebration of speed but also showcases the ingenuity and innovation that has gone into designing pontoons over the years. As technology advanced, so did pontoon boats' features; from basic versions used mainly for transportation purposes to luxurious vessels equipped with amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, TVs and more. Today, despite changes in manufacturing processes and materials used (such as fiberglass), there are still several manufacturers producing high-quality aluminum pontoons around Bristol including JC Manufacturing Inc., Bennington Marine LLC , Crestliner Boats Company LLC , Harris FloteBote Ltd., Manitou Pontoon Boats Inc., Premier Marine Inc., Sun Tracker Boats Corporation (a subsidiary company of Bass Pro Shops) - all based within Tennessee state borders since inception until present day - keeping alive its legacy as one of America's premier pontoon cities. In conclusion, pontoon history runs deep throughout Bristol's culture and economy. From its humble beginnings as one man's innovative design to becoming a major industry employing hundreds of workers, this city has played a significant role in the evolution of the pontoon boat. The Great Race and other events continue to honor and celebrate Bristol's contribution to this beloved watercraft, ensuring that its legacy will live on for generations to come.

Pontoon is a popular card game played with a standard deck of 52 cards. The game originated in the United Kingdom and is closely related to another popular card game, Blackjack. It is also known by different names such as Twenty-One or Vingt-et-Un. The origins of Pontoon can be traced back to the 16th century when it was first mentioned in a book written by Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote. However, it wasn't until the 18th century that Pontoon gained popularity among gambling enthusiasts in Britain. The objective of Pontoon is similar to Blackjack - to get a hand value closer to 21 than the dealer's hand without going over. In this game, players compete against each other instead of playing against the dealer like in Blackjack. This adds an extra element of excitement and strategy to the gameplay. To start a round of Pontoon, players place their bets on designated areas on the table called 'boxes.' The dealer then deals two cards face down to each player and one card face up for themselves. Players are not allowed to touch their cards; they can only view them. One unique aspect of Pontoon is that all face cards (Jack, Queen, King) have a value of ten points while Aces are worth either one point or eleven points depending on what benefits the player more at that moment. Other numbered cards hold their numerical value. After receiving their initial two cards, players have several options available: they can draw more cards ('hit') if they feel their hand needs improvement or stand with what they have ('stick'). They can also choose from additional options such as doubling down (doubling your bet and receiving only one additional card) or splitting pairs (separating two identical valued cards into separate hands). If any player's hand goes over 21 points during play ('busts'), they automatically lose regardless if dealers bust or not. The dealer must hit until they reach a hand value of at least 17 points, after which they must stand. One significant difference between Pontoon and Blackjack is that the dealer's cards remain face down throughout the game. This adds an element of mystery and unpredictability as players have to base their decisions on only one visible card. Another unique aspect of Pontoon is the 'five-card trick.' If a player has five cards in their hand without going over 21 points, it automatically beats all other hands (except for a Pontoon). This rule gives players another opportunity to win even if their initial two cards were not strong enough. The highest-ranking hand in Pontoon is called a 'Pontoon,' equivalent to getting a natural 21 in Blackjack. It consists of an Ace and any ten-point card (Jack, Queen, King) dealt initially. A Pontoon pays out double the bet amount unless the dealer also gets a pontoon, resulting in a push (tie). The payout structure for winning hands can vary depending on where you play; however, typically it follows this hierarchy: - A five-card trick > Pontoon - Hand closer to 21 than dealers' > Dealer's busts > Player's busts Pontoon has been featured in many books and movies as well as being played by prominent historical figures such as Napoleon Bonaparte and Winston Churchill. Its popularity spread globally during World War I when soldiers from different countries came into contact with each other. Over time, variations of Pontoon have emerged such as Spanish 21 or Australian pontoon. These versions introduce additional rules or side bets that add new layers of complexity and excitement to the game. In recent years, with advancements in technology, online versions of Ponto

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Pontoon Bristol Tennessee