Herzen History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

Etymology of Herzen

What does the name Herzen mean?

The ancestral home of the Herzen family is in the German province of Bavaria. Herzen is a German nickname surname. Such names came from eke-names, or added names, that described their initial bearer through reference to a physical characteristic or other attribute. It is a name for a kindhearted or stalwart individual, and is derived from the German word herz, which means heart.

Early Origins of the Herzen family

The surname Herzen was first found in Bavaria, where this family made important contributions toward the development of this district from ancient times. Always prominent in social and political affairs, the family formed alliances with other families within the Feudal System and the nation. Individual bearers of this name first mentioned in ancient chronicles include Martin Hercz, who lived in the Bohemian town of Iglau around the year 1383.

Early History of the Herzen family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Herzen research. Another 89 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1803, 1835, 1888 and 1902 are included under the topic Early Herzen History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Herzen 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 Herzen include Hertz, Hertze, Herttz, Herttze, Herz, Herze, Herzz, Herzze, Haertz, Haerz, Herts and many more.

Early Notables of the Herzen family

Henri Herz (1803-1888), who was a German pianist and composer. A celebrated concert pianist, he also founded his own piano factory and built a concert hall. Wilhelm Hertz (1835-1902)...
Another 28 words (2 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Herzen Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Herzen 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 Herzens to arrive in North America, and among them were: Hans Herts, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1738. Johannes Hertz came to Philadelphia in 1754; while M. Hertz landed in New Orleans in 1823. Christian Herz arrived in Philadelphia in 1834..