Show ContentsStarn History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The Starn surname is derived from the Middle High German word "stern," meaning "star."

Early Origins of the Starn family

The surname Starn was first found in the regions of Hannover and Mecklenburg, where the name Stern was anciently associated with the conflicts between rival tribes. They declared allegiances to many nobles and princes of this early period in history, using their influence in struggles for power and status within the region. They branched into many houses, and their support was sought by many leaders in their search for power.

Early History of the Starn family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Starn research. Another 126 words (9 lines of text) covering the year 1645 is included under the topic Early Starn History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Starn Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Stern, Stearn, Sturn, Sterne, Sturne, Stirn, Styrne, Stearne, Stirne and many more.

Early Notables of the Starn family

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


United States Starn migration to the United States +

Some of the first settlers of this family name were:

Starn Settlers in United States in the 19th Century
  • Josef Starn, aged 59, who arrived in New York in 1894 aboard the ship "Werkendam" from Rotterdam via Boulogne 1
  • Dirk J. Starn, aged 29, who arrived in New York in 1896 aboard the ship "Werkendam" from Rotterdam, Netherlands 1

Contemporary Notables of the name Starn (post 1700) +

  • Orin Starn, American Professor of Cultural Anthropology and History and Chair of the Cultural Anthropology Department at Duke University


  1. Ellis Island Search retrieved 15th November 2022. Retrieved from https://heritage.statueofliberty.org/passenger-result


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