Gollnitz History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The surname Gollnitz was first found in Holland, where the name became noted for its many branches in the region, each house acquiring a status and influence which was envied by the princes of the region. The name was first recorded in North Holland, a province of the Netherlands, whose principal cities are Amsterdam, Haarlem and Hilversum. These were the locations of the seats of the old Counts of Holland, and so Brederode Castle near Haarlem, is the seat of one of the oldest families. There are many old and quaint towns in the province, including Medemblik, Enkhuizen, Hoorn, Edam, and Monnikendam. In the later history of the surname, the family became a power unto itself and its members were elevated to the ranks of nobility as they grew into a most influential family.