Show ContentsHarshberger History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The roots of the distinguished German surname Harshberger lie in Silesia. The name literally means "deer, hart," and is likely of occupational origin. The initial bearer of the name was probably a herdsman or a keeper of deer.

Early Origins of the Harshberger family

The surname Harshberger was first found in Silesia, where the name emerged in mediaeval times as one of the notable families of the region. From the 13th century the surname was identified with the great social and economic evolution which made this territory a landmark contributor to the development of the nation.

Early History of the Harshberger family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Harshberger research. Another 134 words (10 lines of text) covering the years 1791, 1808, 1818, 1831, 1869, 1888 and 1896 are included under the topic Early Harshberger History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Harshberger Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Hirsch, Hirsche, Hirschel, Hirsh, Hersch, Herschel and many more.

Early Notables of the Harshberger family

Another 35 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Harshberger Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.


United States Harshberger migration to the United States +

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Harshberger Settlers in United States in the 20th Century
  • Dema Harshberger, aged 22, who landed in America, in 1909
  • John W. Harshberger, aged 53, who immigrated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1922
  • Helen Harshberger, aged 41, who immigrated to America from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1923
  • Jane Harshberger, aged 15, who immigrated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1923
  • John Harshberger, aged 34, who settled in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1923

Contemporary Notables of the name Harshberger (post 1700) +

  • John W. Harshberger (1869-1929), American botanist who first coined the term "Ethnobotany" (1895)


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