Egelhoff Surname

The Origin of the Surname Egelhoff

The surname Egelhoff is of German origin and is a combination of two elements. The first part, "Egel," is derived from the Middle High German word "egel," which means hedgehog. The second part, "hoff," comes from the word "hof," which means farm or yard. Therefore, Egelhoff can be loosely translated to mean "hedgehog farm."

Early Origins of the Egelhoff Surname

The Egelhoff surname has been documented in historical records as far back as the 16th century in Germany. It is believed to have originated in the region of Westphalia, which is located in western Germany. The name Egelhoff was likely given to individuals who owned or worked on farms where hedgehogs were present, or perhaps had a connection to the animal in some way.

Egelhoff in the United States

The Egelhoff surname has a relatively high incidence in the United States, with 610 individuals bearing the name according to recent data. The first recorded instance of the name in the US dates back to the early 19th century, when German immigrants began arriving in the country in search of a better life. Many of these immigrants settled in the Midwestern states, such as Ohio, Illinois, and Wisconsin, where the Egelhoff name became more common.

Egelhoff in South Africa

In South Africa, the Egelhoff surname has a smaller incidence compared to the US, with 52 individuals carrying the name. The name likely arrived in the country during the colonial period, when Dutch and German settlers came to the region in search of new opportunities. Today, the Egelhoff name can still be found in various parts of South Africa.

Egelhoff in Germany

Unsurprisingly, the Egelhoff surname has a significant presence in its country of origin, Germany, with 28 individuals bearing the name. The name is most common in the Westphalia region, where it is believed to have originated. Descendants of the Egelhoff family may still reside in Germany today, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors.

Egelhoff in New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Norway, and Poland

While the Egelhoff surname is less common in countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Norway, and Poland, with only a few individuals carrying the name in each country, it is still present. The spread of the name to these countries likely occurred through migration and emigration patterns over the centuries.

Notable Individuals with the Egelhoff Surname

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals with the Egelhoff surname who have made significant contributions in various fields. From business leaders to artists, the Egelhoff name has left a mark on society in different ways. One such individual is John Egelhoff, a successful entrepreneur who founded a chain of restaurants in the Midwest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Egelhoff surname has a rich and diverse history that spans across different countries and time periods. From its origins in Germany to its spread to the United States, South Africa, and beyond, the Egelhoff name continues to be a part of the cultural tapestry of these regions. Through the stories of individuals who bear the name, the legacy of the Egelhoff family lives on.

The surname Egelhoff within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same occurs in the case of Egelhoff, which as you're able to corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname that can be found in the majority of the countries associated with globe. In the same manner you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of individuals using the surname Egelhoff is more than in other countries.

The map associated with Egelhoff surname

1. United States (610)
2. South Africa (52)
3. Germany (28)
4. New Zealand (16)
5. Australia (3)
6. Malaysia (1)
7. Norway (1)
8. Poland (1)