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 families 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. This is indicated in the records of the Herald's Visitation 1634, Buckinghamshire. 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 in 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.