Capen, Nahum, 1804-1886

Capen, born in Canton, Mass., began to study medicine at age 18; however, ill health prevented completion of his apprenticeship and in 1825 he entered into partnership in the publishing firm of Marsh, Capen, and Lyon. He wrote papers, articles, and books on history and politics, and was an advocate of free trade, federal copyright laws, popular education, and various social welfare reforms. He was postmaster of Boston from 1857 to 1861, and is credited with working out the free delivery system. He also organized the Boston Phrenologicl Society, served as its secretary, and wrote an account of its early activities.

From the description of Papers of Nahum Capen, 1783-1885 (inclusive), 1826-1885 (bulk). (Harvard University). WorldCat record id: 281433156