Chase Last Name Origin

Choosing a name for your child is a big decision, and many parents like to consider the history and meaning behind a name before making their choice. One popular last name that has a rich history and interesting origin is Chase. In this article, we will explore the origins of the Chase surname, its meaning, and how it has evolved over time. We will also delve into the genealogy of the Chase family and notable individuals who bear the name.

The Chase surname has its roots in England and is derived from the Old French word 'chacier,' which means 'to hunt.' The name was likely given to someone who worked as a huntsman or who lived near a hunting ground. The Chase family was prominent in the county of Somerset in southwestern England, and the name was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086.

Over time, the spelling of the Chase name has evolved. In early records, it was spelled 'Chace' or 'Chayce,' but by the 17th century, the spelling had settled on 'Chase.' The name has also been anglicized in some cases, with variations such as 'Chaise' or 'Chaze.' Today, the Chase surname is most commonly found in the United States, where it is the 246th most common surname according to the 2010 US Census.

The Chase family has a long and storied history, with many notable individuals bearing the name. One of the most famous Chases was Salmon P. Chase, who served as the Chief Justice of the United States from 1864 to 1873. He was also the Secretary of the Treasury under President Abraham Lincoln and played a key role in the development of the US banking system. Another notable Chase was Samuel Chase, who signed the Declaration of Independence and served as a justice on the US Supreme Court.

In addition to Salmon P. Chase and Samuel Chase, there have been many other notable individuals with the Chase surname throughout history. These include:

Chevy Chase is an American actor and comedian best known for his work on Saturday Night Live and in films such as Caddyshack and National Lampoon's Vacation. His real name is Cornelius Crane Chase, but he adopted the name 'Chevy' as a nickname in college.

Caleb Chase was a 19th-century American politician who served as a member of the US House of Representatives from Massachusetts. He was also a prominent businessman and philanthropist.

Ellen Chase was an American artist and illustrator who worked in the early 20th century. She was known for her illustrations of children's books and her paintings of landscapes and still lifes.

Theodore Chase was an American lawyer and politician who served as the Governor of Rhode Island from 1863 to 1866. He was also a member of the US House of Representatives and the US Senate.

The Chase last name has a rich history and interesting origin, and there have been many notable individuals throughout history who bear the name. Whether you are considering the Chase surname for your child or simply interested in genealogy and family history, we hope this article has provided some insight into the origins and evolution of the Chase name.