Show ContentsNel History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Early Origins of the Nel family

The surname Nel was first found in Austria, where the name Nelle became noted for its many branches in the region, each house acquiring a status and influence which was envied by the princes of the region. In their later history the name became a power unto themselves and were elevated to the ranks of nobility as they grew into this most influential family.

Early History of the Nel family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Nel research. Another 100 words (7 lines of text) covering the years 1709, 1717 and 1855 are included under the topic Early Nel History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Nel Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Nelle, Nellen, Nell, Neille, Nelli, Nellenburg, Nellen, Nellessen, Nellie, Nelly, Nellenberg, Nellberg and many more.

Early Notables of the Nel family

During this period prominent bearers of the name Nel were

  • the Nelle family of Austria

Nel Ranking

In South Africa, the name Nel is the 50th most popular surname with an estimated 84,016 people with that name. 1


United States Nel migration to the United States +

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Nel Settlers in United States in the 19th Century
  • Casp. Nel, who settled in Baltimore in 1833

Contemporary Notables of the name Nel (post 1700) +

  • Nel Noddings (1929-2022), American feminist, educator, and philosopher best known for her work in philosophy of education, educational theory, and ethics of care


  1. "Most Common Last Names in South Africa." Forebears, https://forebears.io/south-africa/surnames


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