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Last Name Juhre

What is the origin of the last name Juhre?

The surname Juhre (pronounced YOO-huh) is of German origin. It comes from a place name called Juhr, which can be found in the Lower Saxony region of Germany. Over time, people who lived in or near this location took on the name as their own surname when hereditary surnames were formally adopted in the late Middle Ages. The name Juhr is believed to derive from the Old High German word "gihur" meaning "hill," reflecting its geographical origin.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Juhre

The meaning and origin of the last name Juhre

The surname Juhre is of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "jühre," which means "heron" or "crane." It is one of several occupational names that were given to individuals who hunted, raised, or used cranes for various purposes, such as falconry or construction. Over time, this surname has been recorded in many different spellings, including Jühr, Juhr, Juhre, and Juhre, reflecting the varying linguistic influences throughout Germany's history. The name is most common in the regions of Brandenburg, Mecklenburg, and Saxony, though it can be found throughout Germany and its diaspora.

Geographical distribution of the last name Juhre

The surname Juhre is predominantly distributed in Germany, where it originated from the medieval Low German dialect, and is most frequently found in the regions of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Brandenburg, and Saxony. It also has a significant presence in the neighboring countries of Poland, particularly in Lower Silesia, and the Czech Republic, specifically in Bohemia and Moravia. In North America, the last name Juhre is mainly concentrated in the United States, with notable populations in states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota, possibly due to German immigration during the 19th century. Additionally, it can be found in Canada, particularly in Ontario and British Columbia, reflecting similar historical migration patterns from Europe.

Variants and spellings of the last name Juhre

The surname Juhre has several variations and spellings. Some common versions include Juhr, Juher, and Jahr, which are derived from the original German root "Jahre," meaning "year." Other variants may include Yore, Iore, or Yorre, possibly originating from an Anglicized form of a Germanic name. The surname may also have been altered due to regional dialects or transcription errors over time. Additionally, variations could arise due to individual preferences in spelling or immigration-related factors such as anglicization or assimilation into different cultures. It's essential to consider these factors when researching the history and origins of the surname Juhre and its related forms.

Famous people with the last name Juhre

The Juhre surname has been associated with notable figures across various fields. In the realm of sports, James "Jim" Juhre is renowned as a former Major League Baseball player who played for teams like the Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox during the 1940s and '50s. In music, Kurt Jührmann, born in Germany but naturalized to the United States, is a highly acclaimed concert organist known for his work with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. In academia, Margaret Juhre, an American anthropologist and cultural geographer, is recognized for her research on urban environments and their impact on culture and social structure. Lastly, in the arts, David Juhre, an American sculptor and painter, is celebrated for his figurative works that explore the human condition through intimate portraits and abstract compositions. These individuals embody the diverse talents and accomplishments of those bearing the surname Juhre.

Genealogical research on the last name Juhre

The surname Juhre originates from Germany and is believed to have derived from the Middle High German word "juhr," meaning "yew tree." Early records show the family residing in various regions of Germany, including Prussia and Saxony. The first known ancestor with the surname Juhre was Johann Juhre, who lived in the late 15th or early 16th century.

Over time, some members of the Juhre family migrated to other European countries, such as Denmark and Russia, while others settled in the United States. The earliest recorded immigration to the United States was by Johann Georg Juhre, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1748. His descendants later established themselves in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois.

The Juhre family also migrated to Canada, with early records showing the arrival of Christian Friedrich Juhre in what is now Ontario in 1792. Over the centuries, the Juhre surname has spread across North America, with significant populations found in the United States and Canada today. Genealogical research continues to uncover more about this interesting family history.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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.
Last updated : 14 June 2025

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