First found in Swabia, where the family contributed greatly to the development of an emerging nation and would later play a large role in the political conflicts of the area. The family branched into many houses, many of which acquired estates and manors throughout the surrounding regions, where they played significant roles in the social and political affairs. Individual bearers of this name first mentioned in ancient chronicles include Herman der Kelner (Keller) of Rottweil, Wuerttemberg, in 1314.

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Jacob Kelner, who came to Germantown, Pennsylvania, in 1683. Johannes and Eva Maria Keler arrived together in Philadelphia in 1737. Bernard Keller settled in Carolina or Pennsylvania in 1743.

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