This collection documents Stanley F. Merritt's involvement with and contribution to the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society, beginning as a new member in 1924, and after 1937, as the Secretary-Treasurer of its newly-formed Pacific Coast Chapter.

Stanley Fowler Merritt was born in 1890. A plumber by trade, he had a consuming interest in trains and railroad photography. In 1924, he was invited by David L. Joslyn to join the Railway & Locomotive Historical Society. In 1937, Merritt and Gilbert Kneiss founded the Pacific Coast Chapter of the R&LHS. The first meeting of the Pacific Coast Chapter was held on July 13, 1937 at 836 Alma Ave., Oakland, in the dining room of Stanley Merritt. Seven other members were in attendance, including David Joslyn of Sacramento, Frederic Shaw, Roy Graves, Gilbert H. Kneiss, Allan Meyer, W.E. Gardner and Merle Berryessa. From 1937, until his death on June 25, 1951, Merritt served as the Chapters' Secretary-Treasurer. In addition to being responsible for chapter membership and finances, Merritt also organized numerous excursions held by the Chapter for its members.

2 boxes + 1 half-box + MS OV A1

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