On January 20, 1823 Mary Chastain, widow of John Chastain, signed a renunciation of dower that was recorded in the Pendleton District of South Carolina, although she actually resided at that time in St Claire County, Alabama. The land she signed away her interest in was 50 acres on Wooley Creek of the Saluda River, which John Chastain was living on at the time of his death. His provision for the land was that it go to his wife, Mary, during her lifetime or widowhood, then to their youngest son, William. The details of the document appear to allow William Chastain to sell the land to John Chastain Junior. William and Mary resided in Alabama at the time. John's residence was not stated, but appears to be South Carolina. The witnesses to the document were Peter Robertson and William Chastain. IN 1820 a John Chastain (spelled Chesteen n the census), age 16-26, and his wife, in the same age range, were recorded on page 45 of the Pendleton District census. On the same page were the Amos, Abram and Obediah Chastain (spelled Chesteen) families. I hope this information helps someone sort out their Chastain line.

It appears that this transaction may involve Mary Robinson Chastain, who married John Chastain (1743-1805) in 1798 and bore his three youngest children - Violet, William and Mary. This John's will did give land to his widow, Mary, and it was to go to his youngest son, William, upon her marriage or death. He had an older son, John Junior in about 1766 by his first wife Mary O'Bryan. If this is anyone's line, I have a scanned copy of the renunciation statement that I will share.

Yes, I would appreciate very much a copy of your scan of the renunciation. John is my ancestor.

~Tim Chastain