Show ContentsTilke History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The German state of Prussia, which reached the zenith of its power in the late 19th century, is the glorious birthplace of the distinguished surname Tilke. In the medieval era, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the German lands were inhabited by a variety of Barbarian tribes. The borders of the Barbarian kingdoms changed frequently, but the region that became known in Prussia was roughly divided between the areas of Brandenburg-Prussia, West Prussia, and East Prussia. The colorful history of Brandenburg-Prussia, which is essentially the birthplace of modern Germany, provides a glimpse at the oldest origins of the Tilke family.

Early Origins of the Tilke family

The surname Tilke was first found in northern Germany, especially Hamburg, where the name acquired prominence for its contribution to the emerging mediaeval society. It later became more recognized as many branches of the same house acquired distant estates and branches, some in foreign countries, elevating their social status through their great contributions to society. Chronicles suggest that the name is a northern German variation of Dietrich or Diederich. Chronicles first mention one Tidemannus (Tidericus) of Hamburg in 1262.

Later, Tiedemann Giese (1480-1550), was Bishop of Kulm was Bishop of Kulm (Chelmno) first canon, later Prince-Bishop of Warmia. He mentored a number of important young scholars, including Copernicus.

Early History of the Tilke family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Tilke research. Another 178 words (13 lines of text) covering the years 1724, 1812 and 1821 are included under the topic Early Tilke History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Tilke 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 Tilke include Tiedeman, Tiedmann, Tiedman, Tiedermann, Tiederman, Tidman, Tidmann, Teedman, Teedmen, Teideman, Teidemann, Thiedemann and many more.

Early Notables of the Tilke family

Another 42 words (3 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Tilke Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.


New Zealand Tilke migration to New Zealand +

Emigration to New Zealand followed in the footsteps of the European explorers, such as Captain Cook (1769-70): first came sealers, whalers, missionaries, and traders. By 1838, the British New Zealand Company had begun buying land from the Maori tribes, and selling it to settlers, and, after the Treaty of Waitangi in 1840, many British families set out on the arduous six month journey from Britain to Aotearoa to start a new life. Early immigrants include:

Tilke Settlers in New Zealand in the 19th Century
  • Ann Tilke, aged 30, who arrived in Wellington, New Zealand aboard the ship "Adelaide" in 1858 1


  1. Shadow Time Settlers (Retrieved 5th November 2010), retrieved from http://shadowsoftime.co.nz/settlers.html


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