born in chestertown, maryland, chambers was graduated from washington college at chestertown in 1805. he studied law, was admitted to the bar in 1808, and commenced practice in chestertown. chambers served during the war of 1812 as a captain of militia, commanding a company at the battle of caulk's field in 1814. he attained the rank of brigadier general of militia after the war. in 1822, chambers served in the maryland state senate.