John H. Merrifield

John H. Merrifield, Speaker of the Vermont House of Representatives

John H. Merrifield (June 12, 1847 December 29, 1906) was a Vermont politician who served as Speaker of the Vermont House of Representatives. Merrifield was a Republican.

Biography

John Hastings Merrifield was born in Newfane, Vermont on June 12, 1847. He was educated at the common schools of Newfane and Springfield Wesleyan Seminary, and became a farmer.[1]

He also operated a general merchandise store for several years, and later worked as Station Agent for the Vermont line of the B & W Railroad.[2]

Merrifield was associated with the Vermont House of Representatives for over 30 years, serving as engrossing clerk (1874–78), a member (1878–82, 1896), second assistant clerk (1882–88), first assistant clerk (1890), and clerk (1892–96).[3] Merrifield served again as a member from 1902 to 1906 and was Speaker of the House.[4]

He also held several town offices and was appointed county clerk for Windham County in 1897, serving until his death in Brattleboro on December 29, 1906.[5][6][7] He was buried at Williamsville Cemetery in Williamsville.[8]

References

  1. Vermont Secretary of State, Legislative Directory, 1876, page 100
  2. Jacob G. Ullery, Men of Vermont Illustrated, 1894, page 274
  3. Vermont Secretary of State, Legislative Directory, 1896, page 345
  4. Vermont Archives and Records Administration, Speakers of the Vermont House of Representatives Since 1870, 2009, page 3
  5. Vermont Historical Society, Annual Meeting Proceedings, 1905, page 73
  6. Death Notice, John H. Merrifield, New York Times, December 30, 1906
  7. The Christian Advocate magazine, Personal News, February 7, 1907, page 222
  8. John H. Merrifield at Find a Grave

External links

Political offices
Preceded by
Fletcher D. Proctor
Speaker of the Vermont House of Representatives
19021906
Succeeded by
Thomas C. Cheney