Show ContentsBerghof History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Berghof

What does the name Berghof mean?

The German surname Berghof emerged in the lands that formed the powerful German state of Prussia, which at one time was an immense German territory that stretched from France and the Low Countries to the Baltic sea and Poland. After the fall of the Roman Empire, the German territories 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 Berghof family emerged in Brandenburg-Prussia, which is essentially the birthplace of modern Germany. By the 19th century, Brandenburg-Prussia had incorporated East Prussia, West Prussia and many other German territories. Moreover, in the late 19th century, it led the German states in the unification of Germany.

Early Origins of the Berghof family

The surname Berghof was first found in Prussia, where the name Burghoff came from humble beginnings but gained a significant reputation for its contribution to the emerging mediaeval society. It later became more prominent as many branches of the same house acquired new estates, often in new regions which, combined with their great contributions to society, served to elevate their social status.

Early History of the Berghof family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Berghof research. Another 52 words (4 lines of text) covering the year 1798 is included under the topic Early Berghof History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Berghof Spelling Variations

One can encounter great variation in the spelling of surnames: in early times, spelling in general, and thus the spelling of names was not yet standardized; and later, spellings would change with branching and movement of families. Variations of the name Berghof include Burghoff, Burghoffe, Burghof, Berghof, Berghoff, Berghoffe, Burgoff, Burggoff, Burgoffe and many more.

Early Notables of the Berghof family

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


Berghof migration to the United States +

Much of German history has been shaped by the state of Prussia. It was an enduring military power until after the Second World War. At that time, the state was abolished altogether and its land divided between the Soviet Union, Poland, East Germany and West Germany. While some Prussians were content to remain in those countries, others moved away, many of them migrating to North America. They entered the United States mostly through Philadelphia, moving on to Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. Others went to Canada, settling on the prairies and in the province of Ontario. Among those of this surname listed in various historical records were:

Berghof Settlers in United States in the 19th Century
  • John Berghof who arrived in Missouri in 1848

Contemporary Notables of the name Berghof (post 1700) +

  • Ernie Berghof, American politician, Independent American Candidate for U.S. Senator from Nevada, 2000 1
  • Herbert Berghof (1909-1990), Austrian stage and film actor


  1. The Political Graveyard: Alphabetical Name Index. (Retrieved 2015, November 4) . Retrieved from http://politicalgraveyard.com/alpha/index.html


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