EXHIBIT 1
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CHANCELLOR                                      745 ATLANTIC AVENUE, BOSTON, MA
NEW RELEASE                                                               02111
                                                                 (617) 728-8500

CONTACT:              FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE


      Stephen G. Morison            William J. Guthlein
      President and Chief           Vice President, Treasurer
      Executive Officer             and Chief Financial Officer
      (617) 728-8500                (617) 728-8500


          BOSTON-BASED LEASING COMPANY ANNOUNCES FIRST QUARTER RESULTS
          ------------------------------------------------------------
                                        
      BOSTON, Massachusetts, May 16, 1996, Chancellor Corporation reported a net
loss of $403,000 ($.08 per share) for the three months ended March 31, 1996.
This compares with a net loss of $709,000 ($.11 per share) for the same period
last year. The Company's revenues were $1.3 million for the three months ended
March 31, 1996 as compared to $2.3 million for the corresponding period in 1995.

      Founded in 1977, Chancellor Corporation has, in recent years, concentrated
on the leasing of transportation equipment. It is also involved in the leasing
of aircraft, communications, materials handling and other equipment.  Chancellor
Corporation's common stock is listed on the OTC Electronic Bulletin Board
(symbol "CHCR").

                       CONSOLIDATED SUMMARY OF OPERATIONS
                    (In thousands except per share amounts)
                    ---------------------------------------


 
                   Three Months Ended March 31,
                       1996            1995

                                 
Revenues                $ 1,340         $ 2,334
 
Net Loss               ($   403)       ($   709)
 
Average shares
outstanding               5,136           6,382
 
Net loss
per share              ($   .08)       ($   .11)
 




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