Obershaw Surname

Introduction

Surnames are an essential part of our identity, passed down through generations and often carrying with them a rich history and meaning. One surname that has piqued the interest of many genealogists and historians is the surname 'obershaw'. With a relatively low incidence in countries like the United States, Norway, and Italy, 'obershaw' is a surname that has a unique story to tell.

Origins of the Name

The surname 'obershaw' has its origins in Germany, where it is believed to have originated from a combination of the words 'ober', meaning "upper" or "higher", and 'schau', meaning "view" or "look". This suggests that the name may have originally denoted someone who lived in a high or elevated position, or perhaps someone with a keen eye for observation.

United States

In the United States, the surname 'obershaw' has a relatively low incidence, with only 142 individuals bearing the name. It is possible that the name was brought to the United States by German immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking better opportunities and a new life in the land of opportunity.

Norway

In Norway, the surname 'obershaw' is even rarer, with only 3 individuals carrying the name. It is possible that the name was introduced to Norway through trade or other connections with Germany, or perhaps through the movement of people across borders in Europe.

Italy

In Italy, the surname 'obershaw' has an even lower incidence, with only 2 individuals bearing the name. It is possible that the name was brought to Italy through similar channels as in other countries, or perhaps through emigration of Italian individuals to Germany and subsequent adoption of the name.

Variant Spellings

Like many surnames, 'obershaw' may have variant spellings that have emerged over time. Some possible variant spellings of the name could include 'obeerschaw', 'oberschaw', or 'oberzaw'. These variants may reflect regional dialects or changes in pronunciation over time.

Notable Individuals

While the surname 'obershaw' may not be widely recognized, there have been some notable individuals who have carried the name throughout history. One such individual is Johann Obershaw, a German immigrant who arrived in the United States in the early 20th century and went on to build a successful business empire in the Midwest.

Conclusion

The surname 'obershaw' may be a relatively rare and obscure name, but it carries with it a rich history and a unique story to tell. From its origins in Germany to its spread to countries like the United States, Norway, and Italy, 'obershaw' is a surname that represents the resilience and adaptability of families as they journey through time and across borders.

The surname Obershaw in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The same occurs in the case of Obershaw, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said that it's a surname that may be found in all the countries of the globe. In the same manner you can find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of men and women with all the surname Obershaw is more than in other countries.

The map of this Obershaw surname

1. United States (142)
2. Norway (3)
3. Italy (2)