The surname Challen is derived from the Old English word "chaloun," which means "blanket." This word comes from the place named Châlons-sur-Marne, a prosperous industrial center in Europe, where these items were produced.
The name is thought to have been occupational a chaloner,' a manufacturer or seller of chalons, woollen stuffs, especially coverlets or blankets.
"In his owen chambre he made a bedde with shetes, and with chalons fair yspredde," Chaucer, Reve's Tale.
