Oberholtzer Surname

Introduction

The surname Oberholtzer is of German origin and is derived from the combination of two words: "ober" meaning upper or higher, and "holtz" meaning wood or forest. This surname likely originated as a topographic name for someone who lived near or in an upper forest or wooded area.

History

The Oberholtzer surname has a long history, dating back centuries in Germany. It is believed to have originated in the region of Bavaria or Baden-Württemberg, where forests and wooded areas were common. The first documented instance of the surname Oberholtzer dates back to the 14th century in Germany.

Early Immigration

In the 18th and 19th centuries, many German immigrants with the surname Oberholtzer came to the United States, Canada, South Africa, and other countries in search of better opportunities. The largest influx of Oberholtzer immigrants occurred in the United States, with over 2500 documented cases.

United States

In the United States, the Oberholtzer surname is most commonly found in Pennsylvania, particularly in Lancaster County. This area has a large population of Pennsylvania Dutch descendants, many of whom have German surnames like Oberholtzer. The surname is also present in other states such as Ohio, Illinois, and Texas.

Canada

In Canada, the Oberholtzer surname is much less common, with only 84 documented cases. The surname is found primarily in Ontario and Alberta, where German immigrants settled in the 19th century. Many Oberholtzers in Canada are descendants of Mennonite or Amish immigrants.

South Africa

In South Africa, the Oberholtzer surname is also relatively rare, with only 44 documented cases. The surname is found mainly in the Western Cape and Gauteng provinces, where German immigrants settled in the 19th century. Many Oberholtzers in South Africa are descendants of farmers and merchants.

Other Countries

In addition to the United States, Canada, and South Africa, the Oberholtzer surname is found in a few other countries such as Italy, Sweden, Germany, Bulgaria, Ireland, and Liechtenstein. However, it is much less common in these countries, with only a handful of documented cases in each.

Current Distribution

Today, the Oberholtzer surname is most prevalent in the United States, particularly in Pennsylvania. It is also found in smaller numbers in Canada, South Africa, and a few other countries. The surname has spread globally due to migration and emigration patterns over the centuries.

Notable Individuals

There have been several notable individuals with the surname Oberholtzer, including politicians, academics, and business leaders. One of the most prominent figures is John L. Oberholtzer, a former member of the US House of Representatives from Pennsylvania.

Conclusion

The Oberholtzer surname has a rich history and has spread to various parts of the world over the centuries. It is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of German immigrants and their descendants. The surname continues to be passed down through generations, keeping the legacy alive.

The surname Oberholtzer within the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to find African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Exactly the same takes place in the case of Oberholtzer, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that may be found in all the countries associated with globe. In the same manner there are nations in which certainly the thickness of individuals because of the surname Oberholtzer is higher than in other countries.

The map of this Oberholtzer surname

1. United States (2528)
2. Canada (84)
3. South Africa (44)
4. Italy (16)
5. Sweden (8)
6. Germany (2)
7. Bulgaria (1)
8. Ireland (1)
9. Liechtenstein (1)