Gunster Surname History

• Origins Available:
• England

Etymology of Gunster

The Gunster name, like many surnames, is most likely occupational in origin, coming from the Old French "geste," meaning "joke" or "exploits" or the Middle English "gester," meaning "buffoon, mimic or professional reciter of romances." The first bearer of the name would therefore probably be a jester by profession, though at the time jesters were closer to the latter meaning of one who recites romances, than to the modern concept of the court fool. It is also possible that the name originated as a nickname, being given to one who displayed jester-like characteristics.

Early Origins of the Gunster family

Early History of the Gunster family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Gunster research. Another 61 words (4 lines of text) covering the years 1377, 1665, 1666 and 1802 are included under the topic Early Gunster History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Gunster Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Jester, Gestour, Gester and others.

Early Notables of the Gunster family

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

Migration of the Gunster family

Some of the first settlers of this family name or some of its variants were: Sebastian Gester, who arrived in Pennsylvania in 1798; as well as Martin Gester, who arrived in Allegany County, Pennsylvania in 1855.