Owen Sweeney, farmer, P. O., Marshall. Is a native of Ireland, born in 1831. He followed the sea for six years, during which time he visited many different countries. Finally he landed in New York, and cruised about on dry land a while. His life has been an eventful one, experiencing some hair-breadth escapes, upon the plains, among the Indians. In 1854, he came to Saline county. In 1866, he married Emily Cox, a native of this county, by whom he had eight children, six of whom are now living: Ellen E., Melissa E., Thomas B., Emma A., Orren E., and John. In 1862, he enlisted, at St. Louis, in the Eleventh Illinois U. S. Infantry, Capt. Duncan’s company, under Gen. McPherson. Held the rank of first sergeant. Participated in the following battles: Fort Donelson Shiloh, Vicksburg, Port Gibson, Raymond, Champion Hills, Liverpool Heights, on the Yazoo; Yazoo City, Jackson, Fort Blakely. In 1872, he purchased 160 acres of land, upon which he now resides, contentedly in the bosom of his family, who are never tired of listening to the narration of his experiences and narrow escapes.
