Becklen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

Etymology of Becklen

What does the name Becklen mean?

The Becklen surname is derived from the Middle High German words "bach," meaning a "stream," and the suffix "ler," indicating an inhabitant of. As such, it was a topographic name for someone who lived by a stream.

Early Origins of the Becklen family

The surname Becklen was first found in southern Germany, where the family was closely identified in early mediaeval times with the feudal society of early Europe. The earliest individual to be mentioned in chronicles is one Cunrat Baecheler of Konstanz in the year 1259.

Early History of the Becklen family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Becklen research. Another 73 words (5 lines of text) covering the year 1589 is included under the topic Early Becklen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Becklen 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 Becklen include Bechler, Bechlere, Bechlen, Bechel, Bechller, Bechllere, Bechllen, Becler, Beclere, Beckl, Becklere, Beckler, Becklen, Beckle, Beckller, Bechl, Bechle, Becheler, Bechel, Baechler, Baechl, Baecheler, Bechlel and many more.

Early Notables of the Becklen family

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

Migration of the Becklen 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 Becklens to arrive in North America, and among them were: Heinrich Bechner who was recorded as having arrived in Pennsylvania in 1749; Simon Bechler, who settled in Philadelphia in 1754; Peter Bechler, who came to Philadelphia in 1754.