Show ContentsSchönfeld History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The German state of Silesia is the glorious birthplace of the distinguished surname Schönfeld. In the medieval era, Germany was fragmented and inhabited by numerous Barbarian tribes, who fought amongst themselves for control of the land. The ancient dukedom of Silesia derived its name from the Germanic tribe named the Silingers, who occupied Silesia between the 2nd and the 6th centuries.

Early Origins of the Schönfeld family

The surname Schönfeld was first found in Saxony, 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 economic, political, and in particular military affairs.

Early History of the Schönfeld family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Schönfeld research. Another 180 words (13 lines of text) covering the years 1260, 1594, 1609, 1648, 1684, 1739, 1788, 1793 and 1870 are included under the topic Early Schönfeld History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Schönfeld Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Schoenfeld, Schoenfelder, Schonfelder, Schoenfeldt, Schonfeld and many more.

Early Notables of the Schönfeld family

Prominent bearers of the family name Schönfeld at this time were

  • Johann Heinrich Schönfeld (1609-1684), a German Baroque painter


United States Schönfeld migration to the United States +

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Schönfeld Settlers in United States in the 18th Century
  • Christian Schonfeld, who settled in Philadelphia in 1733

Australia Schönfeld migration to Australia +

Emigration to Australia followed the First Fleets of convicts, tradespeople and early settlers. Early immigrants include:

Schönfeld Settlers in Australia in the 19th Century
  • Ferdinand Schonfeld, aged 24, who arrived in South Australia in 1847 aboard the ship "Gellert" 1


  1. State Records of South Australia. (Retrieved 2010, November 5) GELLERT 1847. Retrieved from http://www.slsa.sa.gov.au/BSA/1847Gellert.htm


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