Somerset Massachusetts Genealogy

Ancestry of William Bowers Moison Chace of Taunton Massachusetts

Old Families of Southeastern Massachusetts

William Bowers Moison Chace, born December 5, 1854, in Somerset, Massachusetts, is the ninth generation of his family in America, tracing lineage back to William Chace, who emigrated from England in 1630. A prominent figure in real estate, insurance, and manufacturing, Chace’s career began as a clerk, progressing to partnership and ultimately founding his own company. Involved in various financial institutions, he has been a leading business figure in Fall River. He married Charlotte P. White, with whom he had four children.

Slade Family of Somerset-Fall River, Massachusetts

For the past hundred years – during almost the lifetime, as it were, of Fall River and its entire industrial life – the name Slade has been continually identified with that industrial life and also prominent in other lines of effort in that great city of spindles. In 1812-13, when the real substantial pioneer establishments in the cloth making industry of Fall River were projected and completed – the Troy Cotton and Woolen Manufactory and the Fall River Manufactory – began the Slade name in this connection, Eber Slade of Somerset being one of the most prominent promoters of one of the corporations; he became its first treasurer and filled the position until in the middle twenties. William Slade of Somerset was one of the owners of the site of these first establishments, and was himself an original proprietor of the Pocasset and Watuppa Manufacturing Companies. The brothers Jonathan and William Lawton Slade were among the founders of the celebrated cotton mills of Fall River, both becoming presidents of the corporation. John Palmer Slade, another of Somerset’s sons, figured largely not only in the industrial life of the city but in other lines, becoming president of both the Shove and Laurel Lake Mills. George W. Slade, one of the “forty-niners” of the Pacific coast, was for full fifty years one of the extensive and wholesale merchants of Fall River and his name, too, is coupled with the city’s industrial life. And of younger generations one or more of the sons of some of these are at this time officially and otherwise connected with this industrial life and in other lines, notably Leonard N. and Everett N. Slade, of the firm of John P. Slade & Son, insurance and real estate; David F. Slade, member of the law firm of Slade & Borden; and Abbott E. Slade, now treasurer of the Laurel Lake Mills.

The Fall River Branch of the Earle Family

The Fall River branch of the Earle family traces its origins to the Portsmouth and Swansea families, established over 270 years ago. Prominent figures include the late Hon. Lloyd Slade Earle, a significant contractor in Fall River, and his son Andrew Brayton Earle, who died young while running a grocery business. Lloyd Slade Earle, born in Somerset in 1812, made notable contributions to local industry and governance, advocating for moral and community improvement within the city.

Ancestors of George Albert Chace of Fall River, MA

The Chace family, originally spelled Chase, has been a significant presence in Fall River, MA, particularly in its industrial sector. George Albert Chace, a prominent figure, was known for his role in establishing and managing several cotton mills, including the Bourne Mill, where he pioneered a profit-sharing system for workers. Born in 1844, he served in the Civil War and was active in community organizations. Chace’s contributions to labor relations and local institutions left a lasting impact, commemorated by notable tributes following his death in 1907.

Descendants of Francis Brayton of Fall River, MA

Francis Brayton, the first of his name in America, arrived in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, in 1643, and became a pivotal figure in New England’s early political landscape. His descendants, notably in Fall River, made significant contributions to the region’s industrial growth, particularly during the 19th century. The family established the influential Brayton Homestead in Somerset and several members thrived in business, law, and education, including the legacy of B. M. C. Durfee High School, which was a gift from Mary Brayton Young, highlighting their commitment to community and education.

Descendants of Rev. George Shove of Fall River, MA

Rev. George Shove, ordained in 1665, served as the third minister of Taunton and contributed significantly to local secular matters, particularly as a landowner. He married Hopestill Newman, followed by two additional marriages, and fathered several children, including Edward, who continued the family legacy. The Shove family became influential in Fall River, with descendants like Charles O. Shove excelling in the textile industry and community service. Charles O. was known for his leadership at the Granite Mills, while his brother Edward pursued a successful career as a cotton broker.

Descendants of Joseph Borden of Fall River MA

The Borden family, descended from Joseph Borden of Fall River, MA, boasts a rich lineage extending back to Richard Borden, an English soldier settled in Portsmouth, R.I., in the 17th century. The Bordens became prominent landowners and industrialists, particularly during the rise of Fall River as a textile manufacturing hub. Nathaniel Briggs Borden, a notable descendant, served in various public offices, advocating for abolitionist causes and contributing significantly to local development. His legacy continues through his descendants, who maintained the family’s influence in Fall River’s civic and business arenas.

Anthony Family of Bristol County Massachusetts

The Anthony family has a notable history in New England, tracing its origins back to William Anthony of Cologne, Germany. The family’s American legacy began with John Anthony, who arrived in 1634 and became a prominent figure in Rhode Island. His descendants played essential roles in local governance, commerce, and journalism. Edmund Anthony, a significant contributor to multiple newspapers, and his descendants continued this tradition, emphasizing civic duty while maintaining strong ties to the Republican Party. Their contributions reflect a deep commitment to community and public service over generations.