Manuel Chaves immigrated to Fall River in 1954 from São Miguel, Açores, at the young age of 18. Like many others, he immigrated to escape the political and economic turmoil present in Portugal and the Açores during this time. Upon arriving, Manuel worked at Darwood Manufacturing where he met his wife, Maria de Conçeicão Chaves, who is also a native of São Miguel, Açores.

"Chaves Market a standout on Columbia Street"

— Herald News