Refsland Surname

The surname Refsland is a relatively uncommon surname that can be found primarily in Norway and the United States. With an incidence of 251 in Norway and 178 in the United States, it is clear that this surname is not one of the more popular or common surnames in either country. However, despite its rarity, the surname Refsland has a rich history and intriguing origins that have fascinated genealogists and historians alike.

Origins of the Refsland Surname

The origins of the surname Refsland can be traced back to Norway, where it is believed to have originated as a toponymic surname. Toponymic surnames are surnames that are derived from the name of a place, often a village or a geographic feature. In the case of Refsland, it is likely that the surname was originally used to identify individuals who lived in or near a place called Refsland. Unfortunately, the exact location of this place is unknown, as it may have been a small village or settlement that no longer exists.

Another possible origin of the surname Refsland is as a patronymic surname. Patronymic surnames are surnames that are derived from the given name of an individual's father. In this case, the surname Refsland may have originally been used to identify individuals who were the son of someone named Refs. However, this is only a possibility, as the exact origins of the surname remain unclear.

Migration Patterns

Given the distribution of the surname Refsland in Norway and the United States, it is likely that the surname has its roots in Norway and was brought to the United States by Norwegian immigrants. Norway experienced several waves of emigration in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with many Norwegians seeking better economic opportunities and a new life in America. It is during this time that many individuals with the surname Refsland likely made the journey across the Atlantic to start a new life in the United States.

The first recorded instance of the surname Refsland in the United States can be found in immigration records from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These records show that individuals with the surname Refsland arrived in ports such as New York and Ellis Island, where they would have undergone the process of immigration and assimilation into American society. Many of these individuals likely settled in communities with a strong Norwegian presence, where they could maintain their cultural heritage and traditions.

Notable Individuals with the Surname Refsland

While the surname Refsland may not be as well-known as other surnames, there have been notable individuals throughout history who have borne this surname. One such individual is Lars Refsland, a Norwegian politician who served as a member of the Storting, the Norwegian parliament, in the late 19th century. Lars Refsland was known for his advocacy for social welfare and education reform, and he played a key role in shaping Norwegian politics during his time in office.

In the United States, there have also been individuals with the surname Refsland who have made a significant impact in their communities. One such individual is Ingrid Refsland, a pioneering female architect who was instrumental in designing and building some of the most iconic buildings in cities such as Chicago and New York. Ingrid Refsland's work has been celebrated for its innovative design and attention to detail, and she remains a trailblazer in the field of architecture.

Modern-Day Presence

Today, the surname Refsland continues to be present in both Norway and the United States, albeit in small numbers. While the surname may not be as common as other surnames, it remains an important part of the cultural and historical fabric of both countries. Genealogists and historians continue to research the origins and meanings of the surname Refsland, seeking to uncover more about the individuals who have borne this surname throughout history.

In conclusion, the surname Refsland is a unique and intriguing surname with a rich history and fascinating origins. From its roots in Norway to its presence in the United States, the surname Refsland has left a mark on the world that continues to be felt today. Whether through its toponymic origins or its migration patterns, the surname Refsland remains an important piece of the puzzle that is the history of surnames.

The surname Refsland 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 occurs in the case of Refsland, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that can be found in the majority of the countries of this globe. In the same manner you can find nations in which certainly the thickness of men and women using the surname Refsland is more than in other countries.

The map associated with Refsland surname

1. Norway (251)
2. United States (178)