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Last Name Schilling

What is the origin of the last name Schilling?

The last name "Schilling" is of German origin. It is an occupational surname derived from the Middle High German word "schillinc" or "schilling," which was a monetary unit or a silver coin used during the Middle Ages. People who earned a living through the minting or handling of coins were commonly referred to by this surname. The name "Schilling" can be found primarily in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, as well as among German-speaking communities around the world.

origin of the last name Schilling

Here are the ancestors of the family Schilling

Learn more about the origin of the last name Schilling

The meaning and origin of the last name Schilling

The surname Schilling is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "schilling," which was a monetary unit used in medieval Europe. The name originally referred to someone who paid rent or a tax of one schilling. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for someone who worked as a moneylender or a tax collector. The name Schilling is primarily found in Germany and Austria, but it has also spread to other parts of Europe and the United States due to migration patterns. Throughout history, variations of the surname, such as Schilin, Schilink, and Schellen, have emerged. In modern times, individuals with the surname Schilling can be found engaged in various professions and industries, but their name reminds them of their ancestral ties to medieval financial transactions.

Geographical distribution of the last name Schilling

The last name Schilling is primarily found in Germany, as it originates from the German word "Schilling," which means shilling. It is believed that the name was initially used to denote someone who worked as a minting or coinage official. Germany, being the ancestral home of the Schilling family, still has a significant population with this last name. However, the surname has also become scattered throughout the world due to migration and globalization. In the United States, the largest population of Schillings can be found in states with significant German settlement history, such as Wisconsin, Illinois, and Pennsylvania. Other countries with notable Schilling populations include Austria, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. Overall, while Germany remains the primary geographical distribution of the last name Schilling, it has spread across various regions due to historical and modern factors, reflecting the global migration patterns over time.

Variants and spellings of the last name Schilling

The last name Schilling has a few variations and possible spellings. Some variations include Chilling, Schillinge, and Schillings. These variations may have originated from different regions or dialects where pronunciation and spelling can vary. As for possible spellings, the name can also be spelled as Shilling, Schiling, or even Skilling. It is important to note that the spelling of surnames can change over time due to language differences, migration, or personal preference. Therefore, it is not uncommon to find individuals with the last name Schilling spelled in different ways. These variations and spellings highlight the fluidity of names throughout history and serve as a reminder of the diverse origins and influences that shape our identity.

Famous people with the last name Schilling

One prominent figure with the last name Schilling is Curt Schilling, a renowned American baseball player. A dominant pitcher, Schilling played for multiple teams throughout his career and is best known for his integral role in the World Series victories of the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2001 and the Boston Red Sox in 2004 and 2007. His exceptional performances led to him being named the World Series Most Valuable Player in 2001. Besides his on-field achievements, Schilling has also made headlines for his outspoken nature and involvement in various entrepreneurial and political ventures, including video game development and conservative activism. Another notable individual is Shonda Schilling, the wife of Curt Schilling. She has gained recognition as a bestselling author and has been actively involved in philanthropy, primarily focusing on causes related to ALS, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

Genealogical research on the last name Schilling

The surname Schilling has a rich genealogical history rooted in Germanic origins. It is derived from the German word "Schilling," which translates to "shilling" in English. The name first appeared during the Middle Ages when currencies were denoted by different coins. It is believed that the surname originally belonged to families involved in coin-making or merchants dealing with currency exchange. Historical records indicate that the Schilling family was predominantly concentrated in German-speaking regions, particularly in Bavaria and Upper Austria. Over time, members of the Schilling family migrated to various parts of Europe and even further afield, including the Americas. Today, descendants of the Schilling lineage can be found across the globe, which is a testament to the adventurous spirit and resilience of their ancestors. Engaging in genealogical research can help individuals uncover more about their own specific branch of the Schilling family tree and connect with distant relatives who share this illustrious surname.

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