Surname Wagenhals - Meaning and Origin
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Wagenhals: What does the surname Wagenhals mean?
The surname Wagenhals is an occupational name of German origin that literally translates to “wagon handle,” which indicates the family likely belonged to the wagon making profession. The earliest recorded instance of the surname appears in 1586 in the village of Ingelheim am Rhein, in the region of Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany. As the surname suggests, it is believed that the Wagenhals family of this region was descended from a wagon maker, which was an important trade in much of Europe at the time.
Wagon making was an incredibly important trade during the Middle Ages, as it enabled travelers to carry larger amounts of goods and supplies. During this era, wagons literally served as vessels for transportation – and wagon makers were essential for constructing these vehicles and ensuring they were equipped to handle the rough terrain over long distances. While it is unknown how long the Wagenhals family had been involved in this trade at the time of its first record in 1586, it is likely the family had either learned the trade or been part of it for several centuries prior.
In modern times, the surname Wagenhals continues to be widely used in Germany, as well as in several other parts of the world, including the United States. The legacy of this family, which began in 1586, can still be seen in the surnames Wagenhals and its various derivatives – Wagnalls, Wagenaar, Wagenhall, and Wagenhals – all of which continue to be used today.
Order DNA origin analysisWagenhals: Where does the name Wagenhals come from?
The last name Wagenhals is most commonly found in Germany, specifically in areas near the border with the Netherlands. It is also seen in Scandinavian countries such as Norway as well as Denmark and Holland. Wagenhals is also found in the United States, though it is less common than elsewhere in the world. Records from the 2000 national census show approximately 945 people with the last name Wagenhals in the United States, primarily concentrated in states such as Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Wagenhals is a patronymic surname, meaning that it is derived from the first name of a father or other ancestor. As such, it is part of a larger group of surnames originating from the first name "Wagen", with the suffix "-hals" meaning "neck". This suggests that the original descendants of the Wagenhals family were living in the neck of a region.
In the modern day, there remain several different branches of the Wagenhals family, each with their own distinct variations of the surname. Some are more common than others, and some of these variations are now well established around the world.
Variations of the surname Wagenhals
The surname Wagenhals is a German name derived from a location, a house or an inn. The original root of this surname relates to a place known for crafting wagons, wheels, and other forms of transport. Variations of this surname, and related spellings and surnames, include Waggenhals, Wagenschlager, Wagianals, Wagener, Wageners, Wagenero, Wagenhaupt, Wagenscheler, and Wagenhauser.
Waggenhals and Wagenschlager both share the same root word, “wagen”, which means wagon or cart. Waggenhals is derived from the phrase “wagen hals” and literally translates to “wagon neck”, while Wagenschlager is derived from “wagen schlager”, or “wagon maker”.
The variations Wagener, Wageners, and Wagenero are also derived from “wagen”, but with a slightly different spelling. These spellings refer to “wagen er”, which translates to “wagon driver”, while Wagenhaupt translates to “wagon master”.
The surname Wagenscheler is derived from the phrase “wagen scheler”, which means “wagon wheel maker”, and Wagenhauser translates to “wagon house”. Both of these names were likely adopted by families with members who where involved in the craft.
In sum, the surname Wagenhals is derived from a location, and its variations and related spellings are associated with various professions. The variants Waggenhals, Wagenschlager, Wagianals, Wagener, Wageners, Wagenero, Wagenhaupt, Wagenscheler, and Wagenhauser all share the common root word, “wagen”, which translates to wagon or cart.
Famous people with the name Wagenhals
- Dave Wagenhals: American actor, writer, and producer known for his work on shows such as New Girl, Super Fun Night, and Key and Peele.
- Rachel Wagenhals: Former Miss Wisconsin and model who is currently an independent agency advisor.
- Briton Lee Wagenhals: American film producer best known for his work in the films Congo, The Exorcist III, and Judgment Night.
- Tom Wagenhals: Founder of non-profit organization Planet Boston which works to promote sustainable living and organizes both fundraising activities and educational events.
- Charles Wagenhals: American cell biologist and professor at the University of California, Irvine.
- Carl Wagenhals: President and CEO of California-based real estate firm Wagenhals Development Group.
- Carlisle Wagenhals: Vice Chairman of Los Angeles-based advertising agency Southwest Media Group.
- Jenny Wagenhals: Fashion model represented by Wilhelmina Models, who has completed campaigns for brands such as ASOS and We-Talk Magazine.
- Robert Wagenhals: Retired Professor of Political Science, Hawaii Pacific University. 10.Kelly Wagenhals: American fashion designer and pattern maker for numerous celebrities, such as Rihanna and Lady Gaga.