First found in Franconia, where this family name became a prominent contributor to the development of the district from ancient times. Chronicles first mention "Heinrich in der lachun" in 1280 in Wuerttemberg, "Lachenman" in 1409 in Reutlingen, Burkhart Lachner of Freiburg in 1434, and by 1452 the variation "Lachenmair" was taken on in Leutkirch. "An der Lache" meant literally "by the pond." Always prominent in social affairs, the name became an integral part of that developing region as they emerged to form alliances with other families within the Feudal System.

European migration to North America began in the mid-17th century and continued unabated until the mid-20th. Many Bavarians made the long trip to escape poverty or persecution based on their religious beliefs. The chance for tenant farmers to own their own land was also a major drawing card. They settled all across the United States in Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Illinois, and California. Many came to Canada also, settling in Ontario and the prairie provinces. Analysis of immigration records has shown some of the first Lachs to arrive in North America, and among them were: Mark Lachman, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1774. Martin Lachner and Vite Lachner came to Georgia in 1741; G.C. Lachenmayer came to Philadelphia in 1798.

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