The surname Resch originates from Germanic roots, specifically from a regional name for someone from the Rhine region (Rhein in German). The name is derived from the Old High German Hrīu, meaning "river," and Heim, meaning "home" or "settlement." Over time, the name evolved to Rheinisch, which meant "from the Rhine," and eventually shortened to Resch. It's worth noting that surnames did not become widespread in Europe until the Late Middle Ages, around the 11th to 14th centuries, so it is likely that the specific Resch lineage originated during this period.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Resch
The surname Resch is of German origin, derived from various regional names, such as Reischach, Reisach, and Reitzenhain, which were originally place names. These locations are found primarily in Bavaria and Swabia, regions of Germany that experienced extensive territorial alterations during the Middle Ages, contributing to the spread of these place names as surnames among residents. The name is thought to be derived from the Old High German "reihh" meaning row or range, and "aha" meaning stream or brook, which could refer to a settlement located between streams or on a ridge. Over time, the spelling variations have emerged due to regional dialects and scribes' interpretations when transcribing records by hand.
Geographical distribution of the last name Resch
The surname Resch is primarily found in regions with Germanic origins, particularly Germany and Austria. It's also common in Switzerland, where it is considered one of the most frequent family names. Migrations over the centuries have led to the dispersal of individuals bearing the name Resch across other parts of Europe, such as Italy, Poland, and Russia. In North America, the surname Resch is predominantly found in areas with high German-American populations, notably in states like Pennsylvania, Illinois, Wisconsin, and California. In Australia, it's most prevalent in New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland due to immigration from Germany and the UK during the 19th century.
Variants and spellings of the last name Resch
The surname Resch can be found with various spelling variations due to differences in transliteration, transcription, and spelling conventions over time. Some common variants include Reisch, Reich, Riesch, Resche, and Reishe. These variations may originate from regional dialects, historical spellings, or individual preferences. In some cases, the name might also be found with diacritical marks such as Resch' (with a grave accent above the 'e') in German-speaking regions. Additionally, surnames can sometimes change due to immigration and assimilation processes when families move to new countries, resulting in further variations of the name Resch.
Famous people with the last name Resch
Notable individuals with the surname Resch include:
1. Jake Resch (born 1987), American professional ice hockey player who played for teams including the Philadelphia Flyers and Nashville Predators.
2. John Resch (1926-2013), an American baseball outfielder who played for three Major League Baseball teams in a career spanning from 1948 to 1954.
3. Kathy Resch (born 1952), an American former professional tennis player who reached the singles final at Wimbledon and the US Open in 1977.
4. Klemens Resch (born 1978), a German politician who has been serving as a member of the Bundestag since 2013, representing the Christian Social Union.
5. Mike Resch (born 1961), an American professional ice hockey coach who has served in various roles for teams such as the New York Islanders and New Jersey Devils.
6. Rainer Resch (born 1963), a German former professional footballer who played as a defender and won the UEFA Champions League with Bayern Munich in 1974.
Genealogical research on the last name Resch
The surname Resch originates from Germany, specifically in regions such as Bavaria and Swabia. It is an occupational name derived from the Middle High German word "reise" meaning journey or travel, which was later modified into "Reis(s)ch" due to vernacular variations. The name was originally given to individuals involved in trade or transportation, such as innkeepers or carters. Over time, the spelling evolved with migrations and settlements, leading to various forms like Reisch, Reich, Reischke, and Resch, among others. Notable individuals with this surname include August Resch, a German politician, and Karl Resch, an Austrian ski jumper. The name remains common in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and regions settled by German immigrants.
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