Martin Sevier Callen, b.1824

SEVIER, CALLEN, SCOTT, SPEERS, KERR

Posted By: Volunteer - Barbara Evans
Date: 6/6/2012 at 15:44:03

Source: Van Buren Co. Genealogical Society Scrapbook A, page 339, Keosauqua Public Library; Keosauqua, IA

[Callen, M.S., at his late home in Bonaparte, Iowa, June 14th, 1899, at 1 p.m.]
Martin Sevier Callen was born in Sevier County, Tenn. Nov. 30th, 1824. Came to Iowa in 1842 and settled in the vicinity of Bonaparte where he has made his home with the exception of one year which he spent in Appanoose County, this state.

He was married to Miss Jane Scott in Harrisburg Township, Van Buren County, August 24th, 1845. To this union seven daughters were born. His wife died April 11th, 1889. Two children died in early life. Anna died June 18th, 1890 and Jennie, September 21st, 1894, leaving three daughters, Mrs. Sarah Speers, Miss Frances Callen and Mrs. Nancy Kerr, three sisters, two brothers and ten grandchildren to mourn the loss.

He united with the Mt. Zion Baptist Church in 1854. He has been a constant attendant and willing supporter of the cause.

Since 1854 he has been a member of the Masonic fraternity. As a business man, he was trustworthy and appreciated. Always prompt, rather too early than too late. For 35 years he was in the employ of Meek Brothers of this place; 30 of which he was on the road as traveling salesman. He was known throughout Iowa and Nebraska as the pioneer traveling man.