Show ContentsVan Heck History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Van Heck

What does the name Van Heck mean?

The Van Heck name comes from the Middle High German word "hecke," or "hegge," meaning "hedge;" as such it was likely originally a topographic name for someone who lived near a hedge. This name is common in southern Germany and the Rhineland.

Early Origins of the Van Heck family

The surname Van Heck was first found in Flanders, where the name Heck became noted for its many branches in the region, each house acquiring a status and influence which was envied by the princes of the region. In their later history the name became a power unto themselves and were elevated to the ranks of nobility as they grew into this most influential family.

Early History of the Van Heck family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Van Heck research. Another 64 words (5 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Van Heck History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Van Heck Spelling Variations

Spelling variations of this family name include: Heck, Hecke, van Heck, van Hecke, van den Hecke and others.

Early Notables of the Van Heck family

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


Van Heck migration to the United States +



Van Heck Settlers in United States in the 17th Century
  • Olliver VanHeck, aged 35, who arrived in Virginia in 1635 aboard the ship "Transport" 1
  • Peter VanHeck, aged 7, who landed in Virginia in 1635 aboard the ship "Transport" 1
  • Mrs. Katherin VanHeck, aged 34, who arrived in Virginia in 1635 aboard the ship "Transport" 2


  1. Filby, P. William, Meyer, Mary K., Passenger and immigration lists index : a guide to published arrival records of about 500,000 passengers who came to the United States and Canada in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries. 1982-1985 Cumulated Supplements in Four Volumes Detroit, Mich. : Gale Research Co., 1985, Print (ISBN 0-8103-1795-8)
  2. Pilgrim Ship's of 1600's Retrieved January 6th 2023, retrieved from https://www.packrat-pro.com/ships/shiplist.htm


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