Craftsman earns 'Merritt'

Ed Merritt often travels to Western Illinois to expand his business

Jeff Scott

Issue date: 11/4/09 Section: News

Ed Merritt (left) makes a sale to annual customer Nick Rampson (right), senior art major. Jeff Scott/courier staff

In today's uncertain economic environment, it can be hard to get by. It can be even more difficult to run a business, yet Ed Merritt would tell you a different story.

Merritt has been coming to the Western Illinois University's Union for the past three years selling his handmade knitted hats, gloves, scarves, sweaters, jackets, etc. The quality and diversity of items attracts many students to his booth next to the stairs. ?

One student, senior art major Nick Rampson, has been coming to Merritt's booth for the last three years.

"I usually try to come and see him everyday he's here, Rampson said. I just enjoy the stuff he brings. There aren't many places out here to get this quality of hand-knitted stuff." ? ?

Merritt's business operates on a cash and trade system, which Rampson appreciates.

"I generally do a lot of artwork, and I come and trade him for some stuff, and I give him some prints and some stuff I make in ceramics, and he cuts me some prices down for the artwork I give him," Rampson said. ?

Merritt always thought he would become an entrepreneur, citing a visit from the owner of Happy Joe Witty's Pizza and Ice Cream in Missouri when Merritt was in junior high. Witty was an "inspiring speaker," according to Merritt, and gave money to the students to start businesses. ? ?

Merritt started an import business and also began working at, and later managing Witty's retail store, The Lemon Drop, which was housed in the lower level of an old Grand Hotel located in Missouri.

Merritt learned a lot about business during this period, performing many of the services offered by The Lemon Drop, including shoe shines, dry cleaning and pizza-making.

In addition, Merritt was given the opportunity to manage others. The confidence he gained by working for Witty made him think, 'Maybe I can do this.' ?

Besides running his import business, Merritt also held jobs ranging from teacher to paramedic to social worker. Merritt's passion for mountaineering led him around the country, and during 1984-1985, he journeyed to the Andes. ? ?

One day Merritt had the idea to incorporate his love of travel and his love of business. He decided to travel the United States and Canada selling his goods.

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