First found in Silesia, where the name came from humble beginnings but gained a significant reputation for its contribution to the emerging mediaeval society. The literal meaning of the name in its mediaeval context could either be "flatterer" or "smooth talker" as it is in the case of one Rudolph qui dicitur ("so-named") Lieber who lived in the 13th century, or it could mean "one of pleasant disposition," as in Bernhard Lieb of Wuerttemberg in 1290. The name became more prominent as many branches of the same house acquired distant estates and branches, some in foreign countries. They were always elevating their social status by their great contributions to society.

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More about the Lieb History...

Please remember that this page is only a small extract of our complete history that includes:

• Ancient origin of the name (usually pre-1100)
• Known spelling variations
• Early movement of the family name during the Middle Ages
• Noteworthy bearers from the 1500-1600s
• First settlers to North America
• Notable contemporary bearers of the name
• A description and/or full color picture of the Coat of Arms, Crest, and Motto (where available)

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Elisabeth Lieber, who came to Carolina in 1743. William Lieber and Johann Wilhelm Lieber came to Philadelphia in 1754; while Valentin Lieber came to New York City in 1868. Johan Michel Lieb came to Philadelphia in 1750. He was followed by Charles Lieb in 1844 and Michael Lieb in 1860. Henriette Lieb came to Texas in 1850.

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