General Notes

RFN1178
BIOGRAPHY
The Chase Family is said to be of Norman origin - the name being derived from the French word "chasseur" (to hunt). As early as 1326
fam ilies of Chase resided in Suffolk, England.  The family which came to America was from Hundrich Parish of Chesham, Buckinghamshire, some thirty miles northwest from London. A rapidly running river, The Chess, runs through this area, giving its name to the place. This is indicated in the records of the Herald's Visitation 1634, Buckinghamshire.

The Chase arms: Gules four crosses patonce argent (two and two) on a canton azure a lion passant.

It is thought that Thomas and Aquila Chase having a knowledge of navigation, were in the employ of their uncle, Thomas Chase, who
was part owner of the "John and Francis"' which was named in a letter of Marque i n 1626.  The Chase name is so rare in England, it is assumed the flower of the family emigrated to America. They were by nature enterprising and high minded people. Released from the trammels of aristocracy and conservatism of the old country, on entering into the breath and freedom of new circumstances, they at once took the front rank in the new world.

Thomas Chase of Chesham, England was born about 1400 and was descended from an ancient family there. We have a record of one son.
He was named John and he had a son Mathew born about 1486. He was also of Chesham.