Originally Posted by: rtb67This was because the mexican factory burned down and they needed to get up and running as quickly as possible. Did anyone ever hear about this?

Sure, though mostly only known to Strat gear heads. :)

"On February 11, 1994, the Fender manufacturing plant based in Ensenada, Mexico burned down. Fender President Bill Shultz decided to temporarily move production from the Mexico plant to the U.S. plant."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fender_Musical_Instruments_Corporation#History

Congrats, you got a great deal on a great guitar. Enjoy playing your Strat!