Show ContentsBartensleben History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Bartensleben

What does the name Bartensleben mean?

The German state of Prussia, which reached the zenith of its power in the late 19th century, is the glorious birthplace of the distinguished surname Bartensleben. In the medieval era, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the German lands were inhabited by a variety of Barbarian tribes. The borders of the Barbarian kingdoms changed frequently, but the region that became known as Prussia was roughly divided between the areas of Brandenburg-Prussia, West Prussia, and East Prussia. The colorful history of East Prussia, which was located on the southern shore of the Baltic Sea and was bordered by Poland and Lithuania, provides a glimpse at the oldest origins of the Bartensleben family.

Early Origins of the Bartensleben family

The surname Bartensleben was first found in Brandenburg, where the name was closely identified in early mediaeval times with the feudal society which would become prominent throughout European history. The name would later emerge as a noble family with great influence, having many distinguished branches, and become noted for its involvement in social, economic and political affairs. They were one of the oldest and most respected noble families of Lower Saxony and Brandenburg; the family owned the Castle Wolffburg on the Aller in the Kingdom of Hanover. The founder of this family is said to be Bardo who was knighted by Carl the Great. Guentzel von Bartensleben served Duke Henry the Lion against the Wenden tribe, and was named Count of Schwerin.

Early History of the Bartensleben family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bartensleben research. Another 68 words (5 lines of text) covering the year 1237 is included under the topic Early Bartensleben History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bartensleben 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 Bartensleben include Bartensleben, Bardensleben, Barteleben, Bartenleben and many more.

Early Notables of the Bartensleben family

  • Friedrich Bartensleben, who became the bishop of Schwerin in 1237

Migration of the Bartensleben family

The state of Prussia was a great influence on the shape of modern Germany. After the Second World War, Prussia's land was divided among the Soviet Union, Poland, East Germany and West Germany and the state was abolished. Some Prussians remained in those countries after the war, while many others migrated to North America in search of a new start. Philadelphia was their primary point of entry to the United States, after which many of them moved on to Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. A large number of Prussians also migrated to Ontario and the prairie provinces as United Empire Loyalists. Analysis of immigration records has shown some of the first Bartenslebens to arrive in North America, and among them were: Franz Ferdinand Von Bardeleben, who settled in North America in 1775; and Johann Henrich Von Bardeleben, who came to North America in 1775.



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