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JEDEDIAH McKEEN, Shellsburg, came to Benton County Feb. 1, 1876. He was born in Franklin County, Me., Aug. 8, 1836. His parents, Robert and Emeline (Nicholson) McKeen, were also natives of Maine. In 1856 the family emigrated to Illinois and settled in La Salle County, and ten years later removed to Woodford County, in the same State. The parents are now residing in Polk County, Neb.The subject of this sketch was reared on a farm, and in 1858, in La Salle County, Ill., married Eleanor Towner, a native of that county. In 1862 Mr. McKeen patriotically responded to his country's call, enlisting in Co. C, 7th Ill. Vol. Cav., and served three years, participating in many battles and skirmishes, among which were Shiloh, Corinth, Holly Springs, Port Hudson, Guntown, Grierson's raid, Summerville, Franklin and Nashville. He was with the command at all times, never being sick a day while in the service. He was twice wounded, but not disabled. On returning from the service, he engaged in the grain trade at El Paso, Ill., remaining at that place until 1876, then came to Benton County, Iowa, and for two years engaged in the grain and stock trade at Shellsburg, since which time he has been successfully engaged in the livery business. He also keeps several blooded stable-horses.
Mr. and Mrs. McKeen have been the parents of three children — Chester, Laura and Cora D. Laura died when twelve years old. Mr. McKean is a member of the Masonic fraternity, belonging to the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery. In politics he affiliates with the Democratic party.
Source Citation: "1887 Benton County, Iowa Biographies" [database online] Benton County IAGenWeb Project. <http://iagenweb.org/benton/>
Original data: "Portrait and Biographical Album of Benton County, Iowa." Chicago: Chapman Brothers, 1887, p. 207-208.
Transcribed by: Sue Soden. Submitted to the Benton County IAGenWeb Project on January 28th, 2009. Copyright © 2009 The IAGenWeb Project.
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