Surname Wetzlau - Meaning and Origin
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Wetzlau: What does the surname Wetzlau mean?
The surname Wetzlau is a German occupational name derived from the Middle High German word “wetzlouwe”. This word was a type of fabric, specifically a type of fine linen. The occupation associated with this surname was that of a weaver of fine linens, a craft that was highly valued in medieval Germany.
Wetzlau is an ancient surname, and is likely to have originated in medieval Germany. Records show that the earliest known bearer of the name was Johannes Ysom Wetzlau, who lived in the year 1300. During the Middle Ages, work such as weaving, spinning, dyeing, and sewing of fine linens was highly valued in Germany, and these tradesmen were known as the “Textile Workers” or “Textile Makers”. It is likely that this is where the surname Wetzlau originated, as a sign of respect and recognition given to a fine craftsman.
The surname Wetzlau is not overly common, but it continues to be used by descendants of the original bearers of the name. It is found in many countries today, and represents a long history of artistry and craftsmanship. It is a unique name that signifies the effort and dedication of accomplished textile workers throughout German history.
Order DNA origin analysisWetzlau: Where does the name Wetzlau come from?
The last name Wetzlau is most commonly found today in areas of Germany, namely in the region of Upper Silesia, and the western part of present day Poland. The name is of German origin, possibly derived from the medieval personal name Vitus, which denoted a person of endurance. It was probably originally bestowed on someone who lived on a wet or marshy land.
The spelling of the name has varied between Wetzlau and Wetzel over the centuries, but is predominantly retained as Wetzlau. Rank and title, or even nobility, was associated to some of the people bearing this name in the Middle Ages. As such, spellings on early records may vary greatly due to translation errors, phonetic translations, or the whims of the record keeper.
In the contemporary world, people with variants of the Wetzlau surname reside in parts of Europe, the United States, Australia, Canada, and other countries. They are generally descendants of German immigrants who, starting from the mid-17th century, left their homeland in search of a better life. These immigrants established themselves in various places, leading to a scattering of the Wetzlau name around the world.
The largest concentration of Wetzlaus remains in Germany. These individuals are likely descendants of those German Wetzlaus who lived in villages in Upper Silesia and the western part of present day Poland. This area was part of the former Prussian province of Silesia, and today is the port of entry for many Wetzlaus who have returned to their ancestral homeland.
Variations of the surname Wetzlau
The surname Wetzlau has multiple variants, spellings, and surnames of the same origin. It originally comes from the German, "Wetzlauer," and literally translates to mean “plow man.” Other versions of the Wetzlau name include Wetzel, Wetzelau, Wetzeler, Wetzelauer, Wetzeler, Wetzler, Witzel, Witzelau, and Witzler.
The name is most commonly found all along the Eastern shores of the United States, especially in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and other states where German individuals immigrated. The name has strong roots in the surrounding communities, and is often found among families that have had roots in the area for centuries.
The Wetzlau surname, and its many variants, can also be found in Germany, where the family first got its start. This spelling of the name is most common in regions along the Main, Danube, and Rhine rivers in Germany. It is especially found in Bayern, Niedersachsen, Rheinland-Pfalz, and Baden-Wurttemberg.
The Wetzlau surname is still highly common in the United States and throughout Europe. It is a large and proud part of the German heritage in the United States, and has been a part of countless communities all across the world.
Famous people with the name Wetzlau
- Frank J. Wetzlau: Descended from a German-American family, Frank J. Wetzlau was the owner of a well-known restaurant in Chicago during the 1950s and 60s. He was also a prominent Chicago-area philanthropist who served on the boards of multiple charities and institutions.
- Charlotte Wetzlau: A popular opera singer, Charlotte Wetzlau achieved fame and success in the early 20th century. She was particularly popular in her native Austria.
- Jane Wetzlau: Jane Wetzlau is a contemporary American artist best known for her landscape and seascape paintings. She has exhibited in art galleries and shows throughout the United States.
- Jon Wetzlau: A venture capitalist in Silicon Valley, Jon Wetzlau was a significant figure in the early development of venture capitalism in the region. He has served as a mentor and advisor to numerous tech start-ups.
- Gustav Wetzlau: Gustav Wetzlau was a wealthy 19th century German industrialist who made a fortune in the sugar industry. He was known as one of the wealthiest men in Europe during his lifetime.
- Gotthold Wetzlau: Gotthold Wetzlau was an Olympic sailor who represented Germany in the 1912 Summer Olympics in Stockholm, Sweden. He competed in the 6 metres class event and finished in 11th place.