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Biographical entry Merrifield, Sam (1904 - 1982)

Born
1904
Victoria
Died
1982
Occupation
Politician - State - Vic (MLA or MLC)

Summary

Born (in 1904) and educated in Moonee Ponds, and later Essendon, Sam Merrifield eventually studied at the Working Men's College where he became a qualified surveyor and draughtsman. Sam Merrifield was an active member of the Australian Labor Party. Elected a member of the Legislative Assembly in 1943 for the seat of Essendon, Merrifield moved to the seat of Moonee Ponds in 1945. After losing his seat in the Lower House, he moved to the Legislative Council where he served the seat of Doutta Galla until his retirement in 1970. Merrifield was involved in many community organisations and was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Letters by Monash University in 1973. After a lifelong interest in labour history, he became a foundation member of the Australian Society for the Study of Labour History and became one of its most active members and historians. This led him being made an Honorary Life Member of the Society. He died in 1982.

Archival resources

State Library of Victoria, Australian Manuscripts Collection

  • Samuel Merrifield - Papers, ca. 1858-ca. 1977, c. 1858 - c. 1977, MS 13045; State Library of Victoria, Australian Manuscripts Collection. Details

Published resources

Journal Articles

  • Fry, E.C., 'Honorary life membership', Labour History, vol. 20, 1971, p. 74. Details

Ross G. Elford