John Lafayette Merriam (February 6, 1825 – January 12, 1895) was a Minnesota banker, politician and Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives, representing St. Paul. He was instrumental in helping to organize First National Bank of Minnesota, and he served as vice president of Merchants National Bank.

John L. Merriam
11th Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives
In office
1870–1871
Preceded byChester D. Davidson
Succeeded byA.R. Hall
Minnesota State Representative from the 1st District
In office
1870–1871
Personal details
Born
John Lafayette Merriam[1]

(1825-02-06)February 6, 1825
Essex, New York, U.S.
DiedJanuary 12, 1895(1895-01-12) (aged 69)
Political partyRepublican
Residence(s)Saint Paul, Minnesota, U.S.
ProfessionBanker

Merriam was the son of Jane (Ismon) and William Strong Merriam. He began service in the Minnesota House of Representatives in 1870, and was elected speaker that year, serving in the position until 1871. His son, William R. Merriam, later served as speaker of the house in 1887, and was elected governor in 1888.[2]

References

edit
  1. ^ "Obituary Record of Graduates of Yale University". 1925.
  2. ^ Minnesota Legislators Past and Present
Political offices
Preceded by Speaker of the Minnesota House of Representatives
1870–1871
Succeeded by