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Last Name Hammel

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What is the origin of the last name Hammel?

The surname Hammel is of German origin, derived from various places named Hammel in Germany. The name is thought to be associated with the Old High German word "hamal," meaning swineherd or pig-keeper. This is due to the association between the place names and the presence of pigs in those areas. It's also possible that the name could have been an occupational surname for someone who raised pigs as a profession.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Hammel

The meaning and origin of the last name Hammel

The surname Hammel originates from Germany, specifically from regions such as Lower Saxony and North Rhine-Westphalia. It is an occupational name derived from the Middle High German word "hamel," meaning "swineherd" or "pig keeper." During the Middle Ages, it was common for surnames to be given based on one's profession, residence, or physical characteristics. Over time, variations of the name such as Hammelmann, Hammell, and Hamel have emerged due to spelling changes in different regions and migration patterns. The name spread beyond Germany with the diaspora of German settlers, particularly to North America where it is still widely found today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Hammel

The last name Hammel is predominantly distributed across Germany and the United States, with significant populations originating from these two countries. In Germany, it is most commonly found in the northern states such as Schleswig-Holstein and Lower Saxony, reflecting its potential Old Norse roots. In the United States, a large number of Hammels can be traced to German immigration in the 19th century, primarily from the Rhineland region. The name is also found in smaller numbers in other European countries like Denmark, Norway, and Sweden due to historical ties with Germany. Additionally, some Hammels can be found in Africa, notably in South Africa and Namibia, as a result of German colonial influence.

Variants and spellings of the last name Hammel

The surname Hammel has various spellings and variations, reflecting its origins and changes over time. Some common variations include Hammel, Hammell, Hammelll, Hammels, Hammelle, and Hammalls. These variations can stem from differences in spelling conventions, regional dialects, or transcription errors during immigration. The name is likely of German origin, deriving from the Middle High German "hamal" meaning "smith." It is also possible that it could have origins in Dutch, Old Norse, or other Germanic languages with similar words for "smith." These variations and their origins further highlight the diverse history and cultural influences that shape family names.

Famous people with the last name Hammel

Notable individuals with the surname Hammel include:

1. Jake Hammell: An American politician and activist who serves as the executive director of Georgia Equality, an organization advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. He is recognized for his work in promoting equal rights and opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community in Georgia.

2. Jim Hammel: A retired American journalist who worked for WCVB-TV in Boston for over 30 years as a news anchor and investigative reporter. He was known for his hard-hitting investigations and dedication to journalism ethics.

3. Jason Hammel: An American professional baseball pitcher who played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for teams like the Chicago Cubs, Baltimore Orioles, and Colorado Rockies. He is a two-time All-Star selection and has been recognized for his significant contributions to the sport.

4. Lutz Hamel: A German psychologist and researcher known for his work in cognitive neuropsychology and neuroimaging. He is particularly renowned for his studies on memory and language processing in the brain.

5. Karl Hammel: A Swiss mathematician who made significant contributions to mathematical analysis, including function theory, topology, and complex analysis. His work has had a lasting impact on modern mathematics.

Genealogical research on the last name Hammel

The surname Hammel originates from Germany and is derived from the Middle High German word "hamel," meaning swineherd or pig-keeper. It is one of several occupational names that emerged during the High Middle Ages, when an increasing number of Germans took up trades and professions. The Hammels are believed to have migrated from Germany to other parts of Europe, including Denmark, Switzerland, and later North America. In the United States, the Hammel family is found predominantly in Pennsylvania, where many German immigrants settled during the 18th century. Notable figures with the last name Hammel include William Henry Hammel, a U.S. Representative from Pennsylvania; Frank Hammer, an American labor leader and Communist Party USA member; and Hans-Joachim Hammell, a German chess grandmaster.

Last name distribution maps

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NomOrigine Team
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NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

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