Benjamin Franklin Chidester (1835 - 1907)

CHIDESTER, GLEASON, CASTLE, GIBSON

Posted By: DJ Scieszinski
Date: 6/17/2023 at 06:14:28

The Albia Republican, Albia, IA
Thursday, April 4, 1907

Benjamin Franklin Chidester

The subject of this sketch was born in Eddyville, Va., June 1st, 1835. Came to Iowa in 1847.

Was married to Harriet Gleason in 1862. To this union was born eight children, only two survive him, William Chidester, of Grinnell, Iowa, and Mrs. Edith Castle of North Dakota. His companion died in 1878, and he was married again to Mrs. Mary Gibson in 1879. To them were born four children, James, Kester and Thurman, with their mother, are left to mourn his departure.

Of late he has been feeling quite well, and on the morning of March 28th he ate a hearty breakfast, later he complained of being tired. Shortly after lying down the summons came.

The deceased was a veteran of the civil war, having enlisted in the 7th Iowa Infantry.

Some years ago he united with the Christian church and was a highly respected citizen, being one of Monroe county’s pioneers.

His funeral discourse was preached by Rev W. J. Hamilton, of Avery, at the Bethel M. E. church from 1st Corinthians 15:58. After which all that was mortal of the veteran father and husband was laid to rest in Bethel cemetery joining the church.