Gilster Surname

The surname Gilster is not a very common surname, but it has a strong presence in several countries around the world. In this article, we will explore the origins and history of the Gilster surname, as well as its prevalence in the United States, Germany, and Canada.

Origins of the Gilster Surname

The surname Gilster is of German origin, derived from the Old High German word "gaul," meaning "a person from Gaul."

The Gauls were a group of Celtic people who inhabited the region known as Gaul, which is modern-day France and parts of Belgium, Switzerland, and Italy. It is likely that the surname Gilster was originally used to identify someone who hailed from this region or who had ancestors from Gaul.

History of the Gilster Surname

The Gilster surname has a long history, dating back to the medieval period in Germany. The surname likely originated as a descriptive name for someone from Gaul or someone who had Gaulish ancestry.

Over time, the surname Gilster spread to other regions of Europe, including the United States and Canada, as German immigrants brought their surnames with them when they settled in these countries.

Prevalence of the Gilster Surname

United States

In the United States, the Gilster surname is most commonly found in the Midwest, particularly in states like Illinois, Missouri, and Indiana. According to data from the US Census Bureau, there are approximately 509 individuals with the surname Gilster in the United States.

Many of these individuals are descendants of German immigrants who settled in the Midwest in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These immigrants often anglicized their surnames upon arriving in America, leading to variations in spelling and pronunciation of the Gilster surname.

Germany

In Germany, the Gilster surname is predominantly found in the southern regions of the country, particularly in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. According to data from the German Federal Statistical Office, there are approximately 144 individuals with the surname Gilster in Germany.

The prevalence of the Gilster surname in Germany can be attributed to its origins in the country and the migration patterns of German citizens throughout history.

Canada

In Canada, the Gilster surname is relatively rare, with only a small number of individuals bearing this surname. According to data from Statistics Canada, there are approximately 8 individuals with the surname Gilster in the country.

Most of these individuals are likely descendants of German immigrants who settled in Canada in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Gilster surname may have been passed down through generations, maintaining its presence in the country to this day.

Conclusion

The Gilster surname may not be as common as some other surnames, but it has a rich history and a strong presence in several countries around the world. From its origins in Germany to its spread to the United States and Canada, the Gilster surname has endured through generations, reflecting the migration patterns and cultural influences that have shaped the modern world.

The surname Gilster in the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it can be done to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same happens when it comes to Gilster, which as you are able to corroborate, it may be stated that it is a surname that can be present in most of the nations regarding the world. In the same manner you will find countries by which truly the density of people utilizing the surname Gilster is higher than far away.

The map regarding the Gilster surname

1. United States (509)
2. Germany (144)
3. Canada (8)