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Merrill R. Wiseman Scrapbook

 Collection
Identifier: RH-A-4203

Scope and Contents

This collection consists of one scrapbook created by Merrill R. Wiseman (1896-1966), who spent time in the Pacific theater during World War II. The scrapbook contains photos and memorabilia obtained by Merrill R. Wiseman during his time in Manila, Philippines.

The photographs cover a wide variety of topics, based on content the photos were mostly likely taken near the end of World War Two. There are photos of the ruins of Manilla, native people of the Philippines, soldiers from nearby bases as well as Japanese prisoners.

In addition to the photographs there is also 11 officer’s club membership cards from various bases where Merrill was stationed. There are also three letters addressed to Wiseman, one from President Truman, one from the U.S. War department, and one from Joliet Municipal Airport. Each letter thanks Wiseman for his time in service in the U.S. Military.

Dates

  • Creation: 1941-1947

Creator

Biographical / Historical

Merrill R. Wiseman was born on 1896 in Ironton, Ohio. Wiseman spent time in France during World War One. In 1921, Wiseman graduated from Ohio Northern University and taught school in Ohio for a few years and in 1924, he moved to Kalamazoo to teach at WMU.

Wiseman would spent 40 years teaching in WMU Biology Department. In 1930 he received a Master’s Degree from the University of Michigan.

In 1941 Wiseman was called back to serve in the army during World War Two. He served as a Captain and in 1947 was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves. After his service Wiseman would return to Kalamazoo where he would remain a resident until his death in 1967 at the age of 70.

Extent

0.25 Cubic Feet

Language of Materials

English

Physical Description

The size of the scrapbook is 13” x 10” x 1”. The cover is hardbound and the pages appear to be construction paper that is tied to the covers by string. The front cover has the title of Photographs. The pages themselves are in good condition and they show no signs of deterioration, the back half of the book is blank.

The photographs are black and white and each one has a small description written at the bottom of each photo. The photos and the descriptions are still visible and show little signs of deterioration. The photographs are adhered to the pages. The photos appeared to be snapshots and the photographs range in size from 3.5” x 2”, 3.5” x 2.5”, 3.5 x 4.5” and 3.5” x 5”.

General

The contents of this scrapbook are graphic: disturbing images, partial nudity, and offensive language.

Title
Merrill R. Wiseman Scrapbook finding aid
Status
Completed
Author
Stephanie Chapman
Date
2020-09-28
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the Western Michigan University Archives & Regional History Collections Repository

Contact:
Charles C. and Lynn L. Zhang Legacy Collections Center
1650 Oakland Drive
Kalamazoo MI 49008-5307 US
(269) 387-8490