Last Name Koster

The surname Koster has Dutch and German origins. In Dutch, "koster" means custodian, referring to someone who takes care of church property. In German, it could have different meanings but often refers to a small landowner or a servant in charge of a store. These names were likely brought to other countries by Dutch and German immigrants over the centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Koster

The meaning and origin of the last name Koster

The surname Koster originates from Dutch and German roots, deriving from the occupation-based name "Koster" which means a caretaker or warden, specifically for churches, monasteries, or estates. The name's origin dates back to the Middle Ages when individuals who were responsible for maintaining and protecting these institutions were often given this title. Over time, it evolved into a hereditary surname. In Dutch-speaking regions like the Netherlands and Belgium, Koster remains a common family name. Variations of the name can also be found in other countries due to migration, such as Costa or Kozer in some Eastern European countries and Costers in English-speaking ones.

Geographical distribution of the last name Koster

The surname Koster is predominantly distributed across Western Europe, particularly in Germany and the Netherlands, due to its Germanic origins. In Germany, it is most prevalent in North Rhine-Westphalia, Lower Saxony, and Bavaria. In the Netherlands, it is most common in the provinces of North Holland, South Holland, and Friesland. The name has also spread to other countries due to migration from these regions, with significant populations found in countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and South Africa. Variations of the surname, such as Kosterus, Koester, Koether, and Coster, can be found across Europe. In recent years, there have been efforts by genealogists to trace the history and origins of the name, providing insights into its spread and evolution over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Koster

The surname Koster has multiple variations and spellings due to regional pronunciation differences and historical transcription errors. Some common versions include Koester, Koester, Coester, and Coster, among others. These variations originate from the German and Dutch names, which are derived from the occupation of a coat-maker (Mantelkoster in Dutch). The name can also be found as Costers or Costar in some English-speaking regions. Additionally, the name may have been Anglicized from the original Dutch or German spellings during migration periods.

Famous people with the last name Koster

Notable individuals with the surname Koster include:

1. Albertus Johannes Koster (1926-2018), a Dutch astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of variable stars and was the first to propose the existence of cataclysmic variables.

2. Cornelius "Corny" Koster (born 1935), a retired Dutch footballer who played as a midfielder for Ajax Amsterdam, PSV Eindhoven, and the Netherlands national team. He won several major titles, including three European Cups with Ajax.

3. Jan Pieterszoon Koster (1624-1679), a Dutch explorer and pirate who led numerous expeditions in search of the Northwest Passage and was one of the first Europeans to explore the Hudson Bay region.

4. Ria Koster van Groos (born 1963), a Dutch mathematician and computer scientist known for her work on algorithmic game theory, auctions, and mechanism design. She is a professor at Delft University of Technology.

5. Willem Koster (1894-1970), a Dutch painter who was part of the De Stijl art movement. His works often featured abstract geometrical forms in primary colors.

Genealogical research on the last name Koster

The surname Koster originates from the Dutch and German languages, meaning "brewer" or "innkeeper." Historically, it is one of several occupational names that emerged during the Middle Ages when individuals often took their profession as part of their identity.

In the Netherlands, Koster was a common name among brewers, while in Germany it was more frequently associated with innkeepers. Over time, the name spread to other countries through migration waves, particularly to the United States and South Africa during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Notable individuals bearing the surname Koster include Dutch painter Hendrik Pieter Koster (1826-1905), South African politician Jacobus Johannes Koster (1846-1932), and American football player Mike Koster (born 1966). Genealogical research suggests that the Koster family has diverse origins, with branches tracing back to various regions in Europe.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Koster"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

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 : 28 July 2025

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