First found in Saxony, where the name was closely identified in early mediaeval 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. The name derives from the designation "Breslauer," which describes a person from the city of Breslau (now Wroclaw, Poland,) the former capital of Lower Silesia. The progenitor of the oldest line is taken to be Johann Bressler, who in 1395 was Secretary of State to Kaiser Wenzel. His son, Bernhard, acquired estates at Pirschen in the region of Neumark in Silesia. Berhard's great-grandson, Johann Bressler, brought one branch of the family to Strasbourg where descendents are still found today.

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Christina Bresller, who came to New York in 1710. Johannes Breslauer came to Philadelphia in 1754; as did Georg Adam Bresler in 1765; and Nikolas Bresler in 1749. M. Breslauer arrived in Texas in 1860.

For more information on the last name Bresse, the PDF Surname History is available for purchase as well as other products.