Bechmann History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

The surname Bechmann was first used as a hereditary surname in the ancient German province of Westphalia. It identified its original bearer by occupation. Surnames of this type became popular in Germany after the 12th century. Bechmann is a name for a baker, and it is derived from the German word beck. The family name Bechmann is also a cognate of the German name Bach, which either refers to the occupation of baker or to someone who lived by a stream.

Early Origins of the Bechmann family

The surname Bechmann was first found in Westphalia and the duchy of Cleves, where the family contributed to the feudal communities which formed the backbone of Europe society. The family became prominent in local affairs and branched into numerous houses and branches. Many of these houses played important roles in the religious and political conflicts of their regions.

Early History of the Bechmann family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bechmann research. Another 173 words (12 lines of text) covering the years 1749 and 1782 are included under the topic Early Bechmann History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bechmann Spelling Variations

In the medieval era, many different cultural groups lived in the German states. There are thus many regional variations of German surnames from that era. Westphalians spoke Low German, which is similar to modern Dutch. Many German names carry suffixes that identify where they came from. Others have phrases attached that identify something about the original bearer. Other variations in German names resulted from the fact that medieval scribes worked without the aid of any spelling rules. The spelling variations of the name Bechmann include Bechmann, Bechman, Becman, Beckmann, Beckman, Bachmann, Bachman, Backmann, Backman, Beckermann, Beckerman, Bechermann and many more.

Early Notables of the Bechmann family

Another 43 words (3 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Bechmann Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bechmann migration to the United States +

For many Germans, emigration to North America was an inviting alternative to the trials of life in the old country. From the mid-17th into the present century, thousands of Germans migrated across the Atlantic. They capitalized on the chance to escape poverty and persecution, and to own their own land. After 1650, Germans settled throughout the states of Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Illinois, and California. Many also landed in Canada, settling in Ontario or father west on the rich land of the prairies. Among them:

Bechmann Settlers in United States in the 19th Century

Joseph Bechmann, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1832

Contemporary Notables of the name Bechmann (post 1700) +

Tommy Bechmann (b. 1981), Danish footballer