Marion Mixers, Inc. (originally founded as Rapids Machinery Company in 1933) has been a leader in the design and manufacture of custom, industrial mixers and blenders since 1938. Nearly 65 years ago, Marion developed a specially curved, adjustable paddle blade that provided a unique "figure 8" mixing action. The paddle mixer's rugged design and ability to blend both dry and wet materials proved ideal for feed applications. During the 40's and 50's, feed mills and farmers' cooperatives across the country made the brand name "Marion" a standard within the industry. A "Marion" paddle mixer featured rugged, cast iron arms and hardened adjustable paddle blades. Even with the adverse environmental conditions of feed mills, many of the Marion's batch mixers built in the early 1940's are still in operation today