The (1) Sigma(u)(+) <-- X (1) Sigma(g)(+) electronic absorption system of the carbon chains C-2n+1 (n=3-7) trapped in 5 K neon matrices has been identified. The (1) Pi(u) <-- X (1) Sigma(g)(+) transition has also been observed for C-5 and C-7, as well as a dipole forbidden one for all the species. The spectroscopic information was derived from absorption spectra recorded after neutralization of mass-selected anions and cations that were codeposited with an excess of neon to form a matrix. The assignment is based on the mass-selection, theoretical predictions, and trends observed for this homologous series. These results are related to published absorption spectra of graphite vapor trapped in rare gas matrices. The suggestion that such species may be potential carriers of diffuse interstellar bands is considered.