Show ContentsWorsten History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Etymology of Worsten

What does the name Worsten mean?

Bavaria, Germany is the ancestral home of the Worsten family. The Germans began using hereditary surnames in the 12th century. Worsten is an occupational name, which was derived from the kind of work done by the original bearer. It is a name for a person who made sausages, a skill which has been held in high regard since the Middle Ages. The surname Worsten is derived from the Old German word Wurst, or Wurstmacher, which denotes a sausage-maker.

Early Origins of the Worsten family

The surname Worsten was first found in Bavaria, where the Wurster family held a family seat from ancient times. Their allegiances were sought eagerly by princes of the region in attempts to enhance and consolidate their political power.

Early History of the Worsten family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Worsten research. Another 72 words (5 lines of text) covering the years 1746 and 1765 are included under the topic Early Worsten History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Worsten 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 Worsten include Wurster, Wursten, Wurstel, Wurstere, Wurstle, Wurst, Wuester, Wuersten, Wuestel, Wuestere, Wuerstle, Wuerst, Worster, Worsten, Worstel, Worstere, Worstle, Worst, Woerster, Woersten, Woerstel, Woerstere, Woerstle and many more.

Early Notables of the Worsten family

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

Migration of the Worsten 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 Worstens to arrive in North America, and among them were: Richard Worster arrived in Virginia in 1635; Rebeca Worster arrived in New England in 1656; Peter Worster arrived in New York, New York in 1663; Hans Worster arrived in Pennsylvania in 1738.



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