1972 | Joseph Van Blerck SR

Van Blerck, Sr., was born in Holland in 1876, and came to the U.S. at the age of 24.

After a 10-year association with Henry Ford, he formed the Van Blerck Motor Company, pioneering development and manufacture of high-performance marine engines. His innovations made Van Blerck engines standard for almost every early hydroplane and racing runabout.

In 1914 he drove the Van Blerck powered Kitty Hawk to a record of 60 MPH. Through 1925 his power plants propelled boats to victories and records in all of the major boat races.

He was also a pioneer in the design and development of stern drive units and many of his inventions are now standard on marine engines.