Reichow Surname

The History of the Reichow Surname

The surname Reichow is of German origin and has a long and rich history. It is believed to have originated as a habitational name for someone who lived in a place named Reichow. The name itself is derived from the Old High German word "rih," meaning "realm" or "kingdom," and "hov," meaning "farm" or "settlement."

Origins in Germany

Germany has the highest incidence of the Reichow surname, with over 1,000 individuals bearing the name. The surname likely has its roots in the medieval period, when surnames were first beginning to be used to distinguish between individuals with the same given name. It is possible that the original Reichows were landowners or nobility, given the regal connotations of the name.

Over time, the Reichow surname spread to other German-speaking regions such as Austria and Switzerland, where it is still found today. The incidence of the surname in these countries is relatively low compared to Germany, but it still retains its Germanic roots.

Migration to the United States

The United States has the second-highest incidence of the Reichow surname, with over 600 individuals carrying the name. The surname likely arrived in the United States during the mass migration of Germans in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Many Germans sought better economic opportunities and political freedom in America, bringing their surnames with them.

Today, there are Reichows scattered across the United States, from coast to coast. Some have anglicized their surname to "Reich" or "Rich," while others have retained the original German spelling. The Reichow surname has become a part of the diverse tapestry of American surnames.

Other Countries with Reichow Surnames

While Germany and the United States have the highest incidences of the Reichow surname, it is also found in several other countries around the world. Brazil, Canada, and Switzerland each have a small number of individuals with the surname, likely due to German immigration to these countries.

In countries such as England, the Netherlands, and Spain, the incidence of the Reichow surname is much lower, with only a few individuals bearing the name. Despite this, the surname has managed to establish a presence in these countries, albeit a small one.

Overall, the Reichow surname has a fascinating history that spans centuries and continents. From its origins in Germany to its migration to the United States and beyond, the surname has evolved and adapted to new cultures and languages. Today, individuals with the Reichow surname can be found all over the world, each with a unique connection to their Germanic heritage.

The surname Reichow in the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is possible to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Similar happens when it comes to Reichow, which as you're able to corroborate, it may be stated that it is a surname that may be present in all the nations regarding the world. In the same way you will find countries by which definitely the density of men and women aided by the surname Reichow is more than far away.

The map regarding the Reichow surname

1. Germany (1058)
2. United States (652)
3. Brazil (404)
4. Canada (11)
5. Switzerland (10)
6. Austria (9)
7. Australia (7)
8. England (6)
9. Netherlands (2)
10. Dominican Republic (1)
11. Spain (1)
12. Japan (1)
13. Malaysia (1)
14. Thailand (1)
15. Uganda (1)
16. Kosovo (1)