Highlights Archives
Ole Evinrude and His Outboard Motor
From the drawing board to factory floor, Wisconsin entrepreneur Ole Evinrude's story and legacy come to life in the new book for kids, Ole Evinrude and His Outboard Motor, written by Bob Jacobson and published by the Wisconsin Historical Society Press. Evinrude was born in Norway in 1877 and immigrated to the United States when he was 5 years old. The Evinrude family settled in Wisconsin and began farming, but it was clear from a very young age that Evinrude would not follow the family tradition — Ole was meant to work with boats. And he had a great idea for how to power boats.
From Setbacks to Success
Building an outboard motor was not easy, though — he suffered numerous mechanical and financial setbacks along the way. After years of hard work and persistence, he founded the Evinrude Motor Company, and his outboard motors were an instant hit around the world. Evinrude continued to improve the design of his motor and attracted other entrepreneurs to the area, making Wisconsin the center of the outboard motor industry for decades.
Evinrude's story, the latest in the Badger Biographies series, is told in a reader-friendly format that includes historic images, a glossary of terms, and sidebars explaining how an outboard motor works.
Ole Evinrude and His Outboard Motor is available for purchase in the Wisconsin Historical Museum Shop or by calling 888-999-1669. Be sure to ask for it at your local bookstore.
:: Posted February 16, 2009
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