Call Number:

44

Repository:

Historical Society of Montgomery County

Extent:

1.75 linear feet

Language:

English

Date:

1943-1947 (inclusive)

Creator:

Heaton, Ronald E., 1898-1987

Abstract:

Synthane Corporation in Oaks, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania manufactured Bakelite laminated products before World War II. They shifted to war production after hostilities broke out, and offered special benefits to employees who left to serve in the military. The Synthane Corporation World War II scrapbooks, 1943-1947, contain correspondence between Ronald E. Heaton, assistant treasurer for Synthane Corporation, and employees who served in the military during World War II. Letters make up the bulk of the collection but there are also a few photographs of servicemen, and some ephemera, pamphlets, newsletters, and circulars produced by Synthane about the war effort.

Synthane Corporation in Oaks, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania manufactured Bakelite laminated products before World War II. They shifted to war production after hostilities broke out. Synthane paid a bonus to employees who left to serve in the military, and also contributed towards their life insurance policies upon request.

Ronald Ellwood Heaton (1898-1987) was assistant treasurer for Synthane Corporation during World War II. He was also a historian, and penned several books including Masonic Membership of the Founding Fathers, Valley Forge, Yesterday and Today, Loud and Clear: The Story of our Liberty Bell.

These scrapbooks contain correspondence between R. E. Heaton, assistant treasurer for Synthane Corporation, and Synthane Corporation employees who served in the military during World War II. Letters received by Synthane Corporation as well as copies of letters sent are included. Most of the letters deal with administering the financial benefits and insurance offered by the company, but some are more personal in nature. There are also a few photographs of servicemen, and some ephemera, pamphlets, newsletters, and circulars produced by Synthane about the war effort. The letters are arranged alphabetically by correspondent.