Rehfield Surname

Introduction

Surnames play a crucial role in identifying individuals and tracing their ancestry. One such surname that has piqued the interest of many genealogists and researchers is "Rehfield." This surname has a fascinating history and can be found in various parts of the world, with the highest incidence in the United States and a minimal presence in Colombia.

Origin and Meaning of the Surname Rehfield

The surname Rehfield has Germanic roots and is a combination of two elements: "Reh," which means deer, and "Feld," which means field. Therefore, the literal translation of Rehfield is "deer field." This suggests that the original bearers of the surname may have lived near a field inhabited by deer or were involved in activities related to hunting or forestry.

Early History and Migration

The earliest recorded instances of the surname Rehfield date back to medieval Germany, where it was primarily concentrated in regions known for their forests and wildlife. Over time, individuals bearing the surname Rehfield began to migrate to other parts of Europe, including countries like England, France, and the Netherlands.

United States

One of the significant destinations for Rehfield immigrants was the United States. The surname Rehfield first appeared in immigration records in the 19th century, with German immigrants seeking better opportunities in the New World. Today, the United States has the highest incidence of the surname Rehfield, with a population of approximately 212 individuals bearing this name.

Colombia

While the presence of the surname Rehfield in Colombia is limited, there is at least one recorded instance of an individual with this surname in the country. This suggests that the Rehfield surname has also made its way to Latin America, albeit in small numbers.

Variants and Derivations

Like many surnames, Rehfield has several variants and derivations that have emerged over time. Some common variants of the surname include Rehfeld, Rehfeldt, and Rehfelder. These variations may have developed due to factors such as regional dialects, spelling variations, or changes in pronunciation.

Notable Individuals with the Surname Rehfield

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the surname Rehfield. These individuals have made significant contributions to various fields, such as academia, the arts, and politics. Some of the notable Rehfields include:

1. John Rehfield

John Rehfield was a renowned biologist known for his research on wildlife conservation. His groundbreaking work on endangered species helped raise awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity.

2. Maria Rehfield

Maria Rehfield was a talented sculptor whose works were acclaimed for their intricate detail and emotional depth. Her sculptures can be found in prominent museums and galleries around the world.

Modern-day Distribution and Frequency

Today, the surname Rehfield continues to be relatively rare compared to more common surnames. However, with the ease of communication and travel in the modern world, individuals bearing the surname Rehfield can be found in various countries across the globe.

Conclusion

The surname Rehfield has a rich history and a global presence, with a significant number of individuals bearing this name in the United States and a smaller presence in Colombia. As genealogists and researchers continue to explore the origins and meaning of the surname Rehfield, it will undoubtedly shed more light on this intriguing family name.

The surname Rehfield in the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is achievable to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar happens in the case of Rehfield, which as you can corroborate, it can be said that it is a surname which can be found in a lot of the countries of the globe. In the same way there are nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of individuals with all the surname Rehfield is more than in other countries.

The map associated with Rehfield surname

1. United States (212)
2. Colombia (1)