The surname Gorlach was first found in Dresden, where the name contributed greatly to the development of an emerging nation which would later play a large role in the tribal and national conflicts of the area. In later years the name branched into many houses, each playing a significant role in the local social and political affairs.
One of the most famous of the family was Saint Gerlach (Gerlache, Gerlac, Gerlachus van Houthem, Gerlac of Valkenberg) (d. c. 1170 AD) was a Dutch hermit who lived near Valkenburg in Limburg. Originally a soldier, Gerlache became a pious Christian upon the death of his wife and went on pilgrimage to Rome and Jerusalem. In Rome, he nursed the sick for seven years and accordingly to legend, he transformed local well water into wine three times as a sign that his sins had been forgiven. Later, Jacob von Gerlach received his Knighthood from King Sigismund in 1435.
Loading...
Early History of the Gorlach family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Gorlach research. Another 104 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1838 and 1861 are included under the topic Early Gorlach History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Loading...
Gorlach Spelling Variations
Spelling variations of this family name include: Gerlach, Gerlache, Gerlich, Gerlack, Gerlag and others.
Loading...
Early Notables of the Gorlach family
More information is included under the topic Early Gorlach Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Loading...
Migration of the Gorlach family
Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Conrad Gerlach, with his wife and four children, who arrived in America in 1709. Johann Christopher Gerlach came to New York State in 1710-11.
Germany
