Schoneck History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

The distinguished family surname Schoneck originated in the lands which eventually became the German state of Prussia. This state was known for its majestic landscape, its rapid industrial growth, its military power, and for its contributions to European culture. However, in the medieval era, Prussia was fragmented and inhabited by numerous barbarian tribes, who fought amongst themselves for control of the land. The borders of the barbarian kingdoms, which were established after the fall of the Roman Empire, changed repeatedly. The region that came to be known as Prussia was roughly divided between the territories of Brandenburg-Prussia, West Prussia and East Prussia. The Schoneck family emerged in Brandenburg-Prussia, which is essentially the birthplace of modern Germany. By the 19th century, Brandenburg-Prussia had incorporated East Prussia, West Prussia and many other German territories. Moreover, in the late 19th century, it led the German states in the unification of Germany.

Early Origins of the Schoneck family

The surname Schoneck was first found in the Electorate of Brandenburg, where this family name became a prominent contributor to the development of the district from ancient times. Always prominent in social affairs, the name became an integral part of that turbulent region as it emerged to form alliances with other families within the Feudal System and the nation.

Early History of the Schoneck family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Schoneck research. Another 223 words (16 lines of text) covering the years 1144, 1282, 1330, 1500, 1691, 1692 and 1735 are included under the topic Early Schoneck History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Schoneck Spelling Variations

Many cultural groups lived in the German states in medieval times. Each had its own dialect and traditions, and unique variations of popular names. Low German, which is similar to contemporary Dutch, was spoken in Westphalia. German names are characterized by additions such as regional suffixes and phrases that tell something about the origin or background of its original bearer. Further contributing to the variation in German names was the fact that there were no spelling rules in medieval times: scribes recorded names according to their sound. The recorded spelling variations of Schoneck include Schoenbeck, Schoenebeck, Schoenbecke, Schoenebeck, Schonbeck, Schoneck and many more.

Early Notables of the Schoneck family

Another 49 words (4 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Schoneck Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Schoneck migration to the United States +

The state of Prussia was a great influence on the shape of modern Germany. After the Second World War, Prussia's land was divided among the Soviet Union, Poland, East Germany and West Germany and the state was abolished. Some Prussians remained in those countries after the war, while many others migrated to North America in search of a new start. Philadelphia was their primary point of entry to the United States, after which many of them moved on to Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. A large number of Prussians also migrated to Ontario and the prairie provinces as United Empire Loyalists. Analysis of immigration records has shown some of the first Schonecks to arrive in North America, and among them were:

Schoneck Settlers in United States in the 18th Century

Johann Michael Schoneck, who settled in Philadelphia in 1753