Jeannette Merrilees (1930-2013), born Jeannette Faas York, was an Orange County environmental activist. She received her bachelor's degree in Government and Religion from Smith College and received her law degree from the Western States School of Law. In 1973, she moved to Laguna Beach. She worked to save a portion of Crescent Bay Point from development in order to establish a public park. In the 1990s, she advocated for preservation of beachside cottages as vacation rentals in Crystal Cove State Beach against plans for luxury resorts. Recognized for her advocacy for public coastal access, Jeannette Merrilees' papers document a significant aspect of Orange County history; development and environmental issues, and social change. This collection includes collected publications, correspondences, organizational records, photographs, news clippings, and audiovisual materials documenting Jeannette's activism in Orange County.

9 Linear Feet (9 record center boxes)

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The collection has not been processed but is open for research. Please contact the Department of Special Collections and Archives in advance to request access.