Show ContentsKlempner History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The origins of the surname Klempner are uncertain. Most likely, it comes from the German word "klempern," meaning "to clamp, bolt or rivet," and as such, it would have been an occupational name for a tinker. Other possible origins include the German word "klem," meaning "tight or stingy," "klemer," meaning "day worker" or perhaps the surname was created from the personal (first) name Clemens.

Early Origins of the Klempner family

The surname Klempner was first found in Bavaria, where the name was closely identified in early medieval times with the feudal society which would become prominent throughout European history. The name would later emerge as a noble family with great influence, having many distinguished branches, and become noted for its involvement in social, economic and political affairs.

Early History of the Klempner family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Klempner research. Another 94 words (7 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Klempner History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Klempner Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Klempner, Klemperer, Klemper, Klempert, Klemptner, Klampfer, Klampferer, Klemen, Clemme, Klemer and many more.

Early Notables of the Klempner family

More information is included under the topic Early Klempner Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Klempner family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Johann Klemmer, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1730; William Clempfer, who was on record in Philadelphia in 1770; Elspeth Clemme, who arrived at the port of New York in 1832.


Contemporary Notables of the name Klempner (post 1700) +

  • Mark Klempner (1956-2019), American folklorist, oral historian and social commentator from New York City
  • John Klempner, birth name of John Bjorn Bear, an American businessman in the distance education industry
  • Geoffrey Stephen Klempner, Canadian engineer, named a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in 2013


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