John Abercrombie Merritt was a shipbroker and businessman.
| John Abercrombie Merritt | |
|---|---|
| Born | March 16, 1864 Russell County, Alabama |
| Occupation | Shipbroker, businessman |
| Religion | Presbyterian |
| Spouse | Mary Turner Merritt |
| Parents | Louis M. and Elizabeth Merritt |
Contents
Early life
Merritt was born in Russell County, Alabama, in 1864. His father, Louis Manlius Merritt, was away in England seeking supplies for the Confederacy. The Merritt family came to Pensacola in July 1869 aboard the ship Mine Lizzie.[1]
In 1880, Merritt's father arranged for him to study law under Edward Aylesworth Perry. However, the young Merritt did not enjoy the subject and soon discontinued his law studies. Between 1880 and 1893, Merritt worked in various jobs: as a lumber tally clerk in the Bay; as a deckhand on a tug; as a lumber inspector; and for the George W. Wright Lumber Company.[2]
Business career
In January 1893, the elder Merritt died, and his son took over his shipbroker business, renaming it John A. Merritt and Company. Around 1900, Richard H. Turner, Jr. joined him as a partner. Merritt also operated the Pensacola Supply Company, a stevedoring firm.[1]
Merritt was also active in other fields of business. He served on the boards of the Citizens National Bank and the Pensacola Hotel Company. He was a partner in the Bluff Springs Gravel Company and a one-third owner of the Bayou Chico Land Company. He was also a founding member of the Pensacola Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and in 1923 served as its president.[1]
Political career
In 1894, Merritt was elected Escambia County Tax Assessor. In 1906, he was elected to the Escambia County Commission. In 1931, he was elected to the Pensacola City Council, the first under the new charter passed that year.[1]
Personal life
Merritt was active in a number of social organizations, including the Pensacola Country Club, YMCA, Rotary Club, Osceola Club, and Knights of the Pythias.[1]
Merritt was married to Mary Turner in 1892. The couple had five children. Merritt was buried in St. John's Cemetery.[1]