Rash's Surname Index
Notes for John CHADS
The John Chads House c. 1725
The John Chads House is the home of the ferryman and farmer for whom Chadds Ford was named. In 1968, Chadds Ford Historical Society purchased this charming bluestone building and has authentically restored and furnished it.
Having fallen heir to his father's five hundred acre "plantation" along the Brandywine, John Chads was already a man of some importance when he had a house built on the banks of the creek,
probably by John Wyeth, Jr. The house's style and appointments suggest moderate wealth; its simplicity reflects Chads' Quaker heritage.
In 1729, about four years after the house was completed, Chads took Elizabeth Richardson as his bride, and this became their home. By 1736, Chads had successfully petitioned for a license to
operate a tavern and, about the same time, began a ferrying service. Chads leased both businesses to a relative in the 1740's.
Although the village bears John's surname, perhaps the house should be referred to as Elizabeth's, for she was at home here for over sixty years. John died in 1760, leaving his widow the use of the
house and forty acres of land. Elizabeth stood fast at the time of the Battle of Brandywine, September 11, 1777, hiding "her silver spoons dailey in her pocket." The widow Chads reportedly observed Hessian and Continental troop movements from the attic window which you see.
Today, the house's pleasing proportions and continuous cornice, and its original oak floors, paneling, and woodwork make it a fine example of early 18th century Pennsylvania architecture. Its prime location on the hillside dictated its being built as a bank house.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Chads House is the anchor in the Chadds Ford Village Historic District. It is also a contributing element of the Brandywine Battlefield National Historic Landmark.
CHADS, JOHN. Birmingham.
October 10, 1760. November 20, 1760.
To wife Elizabeth, tract where I now live, joining land of Isaac Harvey, containing 40 acres; at her death to my cousin Joseph Davis and his heirs, also £30. To cousin Sarah Chalfant £35. To Hannah, wife of
Joseph Davis 20 shillings. To cousin William Baily, for use of his children, £30. To cousin Elizabeth Pugh £20. To cousin Susanna Dougherty £10. To cousin Mordecai Cloud £30. To cousin John Neils
£30. To cousin Betty, alias Elizabeth Painter £20. To cousin Mary Peterson £30. To cousin Joseph Pyle £5. To cousin Eleanor Robinson £20. To cousin Mary Leard £5. To cousin John Pyle £20. To cousin Sarah Pyle £20. To cousin William Pyle £60. To cousin Ralph Pyle £650 and wearing apparel. To Keziah, wife of Amos Harvey 1/2 of bond of about £90 which said Amos owes me if he will pay it without compulsion, but no suit at law to be brought against him for it. Executors to sell tract of land in Marlborough, also tract in Birmingham containing 14 3/4 acres. Remainder to Joseph Davis and Ralph Pyle.
Executor: Joseph Davis.
Witnesses: Isaac Harvey, Henry Hayes, Ann Hayes.
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