Surname Tuerkels - Meaning and Origin
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Tuerkels: What does the surname Tuerkels mean?
The surname Tuerkels does not have a known or documented meaning in any of the commonly referenced surname databases, dictionaries, or ancestral records. This could be due to a variety of reasons, including it being an extremely rare surname, a recent or modern creation, or a derivative of another surname that has lost its original form and meaning over time. The spelling suggests it could have roots in Germanic or Turkic languages; however, without more precise information or historical context, this is purely speculative. For a definitive meaning and origin, it would be recommended to pursue personal genealogical research or consult with a professional genealogist.
Order DNA origin analysisTuerkels: Where does the name Tuerkels come from?
The last name Tuerkels is an uncommon name today, but has its roots in central Germany. It is thought to have derived from a medieval word meaning 'warrior' or 'fighter'. The Tuerkel family is believed to have originated from the Middle Franconian city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the 16th century. It is likely that the family left Rothenburg to seek a new life in Prussia before immigrating to the United States several centuries later.
In the present day, Tuerkels are most commonly found in the United States and Germany. While the name is not widely used, those who do bear the name remain proud of their German heritage. Many have found relationships and connected family histories through Clan Tuerkel, a non-profit group dedicated to preserving the heritage and honor of the family.
In the United States, the majority of those with the name Tuerkel reside in the states of New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, and California. Interestingly, no Tuerkels have been found in Rothenburg ob der Tauber since the 16th century, creating a long history for the family name.
Though the last name Tuerkel has traveled far and wide and is held by people of different backgrounds, it continues to evoke a feeling of solidarity and pride among its members. This connection is a unique reminder of past journeys and strong, shared roots.
Variations of the surname Tuerkels
The Tuerkels surname has several variants and spellings as well as similar surnames originating from the same source. Tuerkels can be found spelled in a variety of ways, such as Turkles, Turcel, Turkel, Türkel, Tuerkel, and Türkle. It is believed to be of German origin and originated as a nickname for a person of Turkish origin.
Those with the Tuerkels surname may also be related to or have derived from some variation of the name Turkle. This surname is likely related to the word “turkel” which originated in the German language and referred to a Turk or person of Turkish origin. A variant of Turkle is also Tuerkel.
Similarly, another surname associated with the Tuerkels surname is the name Turcel. This surname is derived from the Turkish word “türk” meaning "Turkish or Turkish-speaking." It is also possible that Turcel is related to Tuerkel, as well as Turkles. The spelling of Turcel is more common in Russia and the Ukraine than in Germany.
The surname Turkel may also be related to the Tuerkels surname, as it likely derived from the German word “turkel." This word has been in use since at least the 14th century and also referred to a person or family that originated from Turkey or was of Turkish descent.
Overall, people with the surname Tuerkels have a variety of spelling alternatives, related surnames, and lineage tracing back to the German language and a Turkish origin.
Famous people with the name Tuerkels
- Ulrich Türkel: German film director and producer best known for his work on the 2002 Disney release The Country Bears.
- Merle Türkel: German-born poet best known for her poignant poetry collections South Wind and Constellations.
- Rainer Türkel: German actor who appeared in television and film including Heart on a Plate in 1987 and Roecklplatz in 1996.
- Oskar Türkel: Austrian bass-baritone known for his work with the Vienna State Opera and other opera houses around Europe.
- Hugo Türkel: German violinist popularly known for being the concertmaster for the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra.
- Foster Türkel: Austrian pianist who has appeared with several orchestras around the world, including the Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.
- Karl Türkel: German sculptor who was known for creating fantastical figures for the Circus Türkel in Hamburg.
- Konrad Türkel: Austrian composer best known for his works Der Himmel über Wien and Der Lindenbaum.
- Josef Türkel: Austrian organist and choir conductor who served as the organist of the Cölner Dom from 1893 to his death in 1927.
- Gustav Türkel: German-born pianist and composer of French ballet music whose works are still performed regularly in France today.