Show ContentsDorl History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Similar to many Austrian family names, the distinguished surname Dorl is a proud sign of a rich and ancient ancestry. The earliest forms of hereditary surnames in Austria were the patronymic surnames, which are derived from the father's given name, and metronymic surnames, which are derived from the mother's given name. Austrian and German patronymic names emerged as early as the mid-9th century and the most common patronymic suffix is ez. The patronyms were derived from a variety of given names that were of many different origins. The name Dorl is derived from the ancient Germanic personal name Thor, meaning thunder.

Early Origins of the Dorl family

The surname Dorl was first found in the province of Tyrol in Austria, where the name became identified in early mediaeval times with the feudal society which would play a prominent role throughout European history. The name would later emerge as a noble family with great influence, having many distinguished branches, and become noted for its participation in social, economic and political affairs.

Early History of the Dorl family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Dorl research. Another 160 words (11 lines of text) covering the years 1165 and 1755 are included under the topic Early Dorl History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Dorl Spelling Variations

In the medieval era, many different cultural groups lived in the German states. There are thus many regional variations of German surnames from that era. Westphalians spoke Low German, which is similar to modern Dutch. Many German names carry suffixes that identify where they came from. Others have phrases attached that identify something about the original bearer. Other variations in German names resulted from the fact that medieval scribes worked without the aid of any spelling rules. The spelling variations of the name Dorl include Thor, Thorer, Thoren, Thorn, Torr, Thorr, Thorre and many more.

Early Notables of the Dorl family

Another 35 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Dorl Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Dorl family

After the First World War, Austria became a republic. The Treaty of Versailles broke up the empire in 1919 and many of the Sudeten Germans were incorporated into the new nation of Czechoslovakia. In the 20th century, many Austrians migrated to other parts of Germany or Europe, as well as to North America. In the United States, the majority of settlers landed in Philadelphia, and moved on to Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. Many German settlers also migrated to Canada, particularly Ontario and the Prairies. Amongst the settlers in North America with this distinguished name Dorl were Johann Friedrich Thor, who came to Philadelphia in 1743.



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