Samuel Vaughn Merrick

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Samuel Vaughan Merrick (1801-1870) was a 19th century American manufacturer.

Born in Hallowell, Maine, Merrick left school 1816 and moved to Philadelphia. He subsequently studied engineering, and in 1824 founded with chemist, William Keating, The Franklin Institute of the State of Pennsylvania for the Promotion of the Mechanic Arts.

In 1835, Merrick established the Southwark Iron Foundry, which became the one of the most advanced manufacturing plants of its kind in this country.

Merrick took a deep interest in public affairs and was instrumental to the introduction of illuminating gas into Philadelphia. He was also served as president of the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Catawissa Railroad and was a member of the American Philosophical Society from 1833 until his death.