Bernholdt History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

Etymology of Bernholdt

What does the name Bernholdt mean?

The German state of Bavaria is the ancestral home of the Bernholdt family. Bernholdt is a local name. Bernholdt is a name for someone who lived in Franconia. The Bernholdt family emerged as a notable family in Bavaria in the Middle Ages and became noted for its involvement in social, economic and political affairs. During this time, when Europe was characterized by feudalism, chivalry, and knighthood, heroic battles over power and prestige were fought between the noble families. In an age of rapidly changing political and religious alliances, the Bernholdt declared their loyalty to many different nobles and princes who sought their support in the conflicts of the day. Consequently, the Bernholdt family made a vital contribution to the ancient German traditions of military initiation, legality, and chivalry.

Early Origins of the Bernholdt family

The surname Bernholdt was first found in Franconia, 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.

Early History of the Bernholdt family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Bernholdt research. Another 122 words (9 lines of text) covering the year 1742 is included under the topic Early Bernholdt History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Bernholdt 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 Bernholdt include Bernhold, Bernholdt, Bernholde, Bernholt, Bernehold, Berneholdt, Berneholt, Baernhold, Baernholdt, Baerenholdt, Baerenhold, Barenhold and many more.

Early Notables of the Bernholdt family

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

Migration of the Bernholdt 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 Bernholdts to arrive in North America, and among them were: Johan Bernhold, who came to Maryland in 1772. Anton Bernhold arrived in Philadelphia in 1860.