FRANK E. CHASTAIN

Frank E. Chastain, who resides in Eden township, is devoting his attention to farming and stock-raising. He is a native of that township, his natal day being August 17, 1878, and is a son of John M. and Sarah A. (Albaugh) Chastain, a sketch of whom appears elsewhere in this work. He attended the Leon high school and subsequently was a student in the West Side high school of Des Moines, thus fitting himself to be an intelligent citizen and to perform well his work. After his education was completed the family returned to the home farm in Decatur county and he operated the place in partnership with his father until 1905, when the latter retired and took up his residence in Leon. Frank E. Chastain has since had the entire control of the homestead, which comprises two hundred acres of excellent land, and he has proved a very efficient farmer and stock-raiser. He breeds high grade stock and gives considerable attention to raising thoroughbred Barred Plymouth Rock chickens. He is practical but also progressive, and his energy and knowledge of business principles enable him to gain a good income from his land.

Mr. Chastain was married in August, 1902, to Miss Maude Bruner, who was educated at the East Des Moines high school and the Normal Institute and for one year prior to her marriage successfully engaged in teaching. She is a daughter of Joseph and Kate (McMurtry) Bruner, natives of Indiana and Illinois respectively. Her maternal great-grandfather was governor of Illinois at one time. Her father farmed for a few years in Decatur county, Iowa, after which he removed to Des Moines, where he served on the police force and in the fire department for many years, but is now in the employ of the street car company. His wife is also living. Mr. And Mrs. Chastain have two children: Paul J., who is eleven years of age; and Harold, a child of four years.

Mr. Chastain is a democrat and is the present clerk of Eden township, in which connection he is proving very efficient. His religious faith is indicated by his membership in the Christian church and his daily life is proof of the sincerity of his belief. He has not only gained a considerable measure of financial prosperity but has also won the unqualified respect of all who have had dealings with him.