how is the trunk light on a 69 cutlass actuated. is there supposed to be some sort of switch on the hinge?

 

I believe it's actuated by a mercury switch, just like the underhood light.

 

If it's not working and bulb is known good, try turning the park or head lights on. The courtesy and accessory lamps used to be wired thru the main light switch and 1969 was around time they were changing over from that to constant 12v source. If it still doesn't work and you have 12v at the plug near the LH hinge, the mercury switch in the trunk lamp assembly is bad, or possibly the ground path thru the hinge and torque rods is corroded.

1970 was first use of the hinge mounted lamp and switch to my knowledge.