Show ContentsBrackenhofel History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The German state of Bavaria is the ancestral home of the Brackenhofel family. Brackenhofel is a local name. Brackenhofel is a name for someone who lived in a place called Brackenhofer. There are numerous areas in Germany that are named Brackenhofer or Pracht. Brackenhofel is also nickname type of surname derived from the Low German Brackenhofer, which means brushwood, bushes, and this name was given to a person who lived near a wooded or brushy area. Alternatively, the name is also a nickname, derived from the German word braht, which means noise or loud, for a boisterous person.

Early Origins of the Brackenhofel family

The surname Brackenhofel was first found in Bavaria, where the name Brackenhofer became noted for its numerous branches throughout the region. Each house acquired a status and influence which was envied by the princes of the region, and resulted in the Brackenhofer allegiance being actively sought by these same princes. Over time, the family became a power unto themselves as members of the family were elevated to the ranks of nobility, an honor which served to further enhance their prominence within Bavaria.

Early History of the Brackenhofel family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Brackenhofel research. Another 58 words (4 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Brackenhofel History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Brackenhofel Spelling Variations

Many cultural groups lived in the German states in medieval times. Each had its own dialect and traditions, and unique variations of popular names. Low German, which is similar to contemporary Dutch, was spoken in Westphalia. German names are characterized by additions such as regional suffixes and phrases that tell something about the origin or background of its original bearer. Further contributing to the variation in German names was the fact that there were no spelling rules in medieval times: scribes recorded names according to their sound. The recorded spelling variations of Brackenhofel include Brakenhofer, Brackenhoffer, Brachenhofer, Brachenhoffer, Brakkenhofer, Brakkenhoffer, Brackenho, Braeckenhofer, Braeckenhoffer, Brachenhofer, Braechenhoffer, Braekkenhofer, Braekkenhoffer, Breckenhofer, Breckenhoffer, Brechenhofer, Brechenhoffer, Brekkenhofer, Brekkenhoffer and many more.

Early Notables of the Brackenhofel family

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

Migration of the Brackenhofel family

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 Brackenhofels to arrive in North America, and among them were: Heinrich Brackenhof, who came to New York City in 1847 as well as other people who settled on the eastern seaboard of the United States and in Canada during the 18th and 19th centuries..



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