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Merrill (Leslie O.) Collection of Streamliner Railroad Ephemera and Photographs
646607  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
This is a collection of streamliner railroad ephemera, photographs, prints and posters, most of which was produced in the heyday of the American streamliner, the late 1930s to 1955. Also included are items on early aerodynamic experiments of the 19th century; manufacturers and designers; and foreign railroads, particularly in Europe. Passenger brochures and photographs make up the bulk of the collection, with especially extensive files on Union Pacific; Southern Pacific; New York Central; Chicago, Burlington and Quincy; and the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe railroads.
Background
Mr. Leslie O. Merrill (1920-2009) was a life-long collector of streamline railroad materials. His interest began at age 14, when the new "Pioneer Zephyr" streamliner train passed through his hometown of Syracuse, New York, in 1934. He built his collection largely by writing and visiting railroad headquarters, requesting and receiving the newest brochures and photographs. He also made his own photographs of streamliner trains in travels all over the country, and sometimes purchased items. Professionally, Merrill was a director of the San Mateo County Historical Association and Museum for several years in the 1960s-1970s. He died in 2009 in Santa Barbara, California.
Extent
59.25 Linear Feet (29 boxes, 12 oversize folders)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader Services.