Show ContentsThur Surname History

Similar to many Austrian family names, the distinguished surname Thur is a proud sign of a rich and ancient ancestry. The earliest forms of hereditary surnames in Austria were the patronymic surnames, which are derived from the father's given name, and metronymic surnames, which are derived from the mother's given name. Austrian and German patronymic names emerged as early as the mid-9th century and the most common patronymic suffix is ez. The patronyms were derived from a variety of given names that were of many different origins. The name Thur is derived from the ancient Germanic personal name Thor, meaning thunder.

Early Origins of the Thur family

The surname Thur was first found in the province of Tyrol in Austria, where the name became identified in early mediaeval times with the feudal society which would play a prominent role throughout European history. The name would later emerge as a noble family with great influence, having many distinguished branches, and become noted for its participation in social, economic and political affairs.

Early History of the Thur family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Thur research. Another 160 words (11 lines of text) covering the years 1165 and 1755 are included under the topic Early Thur History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Thur Spelling Variations

One can encounter great variation in the spelling of surnames: in early times, spelling in general, and thus the spelling of names was not yet standardized; and later, spellings would change with branching and movement of families. Variations of the name Thur include Thor, Thorer, Thoren, Thorn, Torr, Thorr, Thorre and many more.

Early Notables of the Thur family

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

Migration of the Thur family

After the First World War, Austria became a republic. The Treaty of Versailles broke up the empire in 1919 and many of the Sudeten Germans were incorporated into the new nation of Czechoslovakia. In the 20th century, many Austrians migrated to other parts of Germany or Europe, as well as to North America. In the United States, the majority of settlers landed in Philadelphia, and moved on to Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. Many German settlers also migrated to Canada, particularly Ontario and the Prairies. Amongst the settlers in North America with this distinguished name Thur were Johann Friedrich Thor, who came to Philadelphia in 1743.



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