The surname Staerkel is a Westphalian-German nickname. Such surnames were very common in Westphalia. They were adapted from traditional eke-names, or added names, that described physical characteristics of their bearers. Staerkel is a hereditary surname for a person who was noted for being strong and powerful. The name Staerkel was originally derived from the German word "starc," which means "strong."
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Early Origins of the Staerkel family
The surname Staerkel was first found in Westphalia, where the name was associated with the noble family whose seat was in the area around Bochum. They gained a significant reputation for contributions to the emerging mediaeval society. It later became more prominent as many branches of the same house acquired distant estates and branches, some in foreign countries, always elevating their social status by their great contributions to society.
Early History of the Staerkel family
This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Staerkel research. Another 161 words (12 lines of text) covering the years 1742, 1811 and 1874 are included under the topic Early Staerkel History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
Staerkel Spelling Variations
One can encounter great variation in the spelling of surnames: in early times, spelling in general, and thus the spelling of names was not yet standardized; and later, spellings would change with branching and movement of families. Variations of the name Staerkel include Starck, Starcke, Stark, Starke (Lausitz), Staerk, Staerkel, Staerkle and many more.
Early Notables of the Staerkel family
More information is included under the topic Early Staerkel Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.
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Migration of the Staerkel family
Many Germans emigrated across the Atlantic to seek better lives in North America. This great migration began in the middle of the 17th century and continued into the 20th century. Resettlement was particularly attractive to those from Westphalia as a means of escape from poverty and religious persecution. For many Westphalian farmers, the chance to own one's own land was also a major incentive. The process of the widespread colonization of the United States began in 1650, when many immigrants from Germany settled in pockets in Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Illinois, and California. In Canada, German settlements centered around Ontario and the Prairie provinces. Among them: Johann Georg Starck, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1753. Johann Ludwig Starck came in 1771; while Conrad, Dorothea, Christiana, and Margaret Starck all arrived in New Orleans in 1820. Jacob Stark came to Philadelphia in 1750.
