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Last Name Vogg

What is the origin of the last name Vogg?

The surname Vogg is of German origin. It is a topographic name for someone who lived near a bog or swamp, derived from the Middle High German word "voge," meaning marsh or bog. Alternatively, it may be an occupational name for a birdcatcher, from the Middle High German word "vogel," meaning bird. The spelling variations include Vogh, Vohge, and Voog.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vogg

The meaning and origin of the last name Vogg

The surname Vogg is of German origin, stemming from various regional variations such as Voog, Voogt, and Vohr. It is derived from an occupational name for a bailiff or steward, from the Middle High German word "vog(e)" meaning "watchman" or "guardian." Over time, it may also have been used as a topographic name for someone living near such a steward's estate or castle. The name became more common in northern Germany and the Netherlands. Variations in spelling over the centuries are due to changes in pronunciation and differences in regional dialects.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vogg

The surname Vogg is primarily found in German-speaking regions, with a significant concentration in Switzerland and Austria. In Switzerland, it is most prevalent in the cantons of Aargau, Basel-Landschaft, and Zurich. In Austria, it is frequently found in the provinces of Vorarlberg, Tyrol, and Salzburg, which border Switzerland. The name may also be found in Germany, particularly in Baden-Württemberg, Bavaria, and North Rhine-Westphalia. Additionally, due to immigration and historical events, some individuals with the surname Vogg reside in other parts of Europe and North America. Notably, there is a community of Swiss Germans in Pennsylvania, USA, who may carry the name Vogg.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vogg

The surname Vogg can have several variations and spellings due to differences in transliteration, regional dialects, and family lineage. Some common variations include: Vogh, Voeg, Voegg, Vohg, Voog, Vueg, Vuog, Wogg, Wohg, and possibly others. These variations may stem from the same root but have evolved over time due to factors such as immigration, local customs, and individual preference. It is also important to note that the name's origin is German, derived from the Middle High German word "wog" meaning 'wave.'

Famous people with the last name Vogg

The most notable individuals with the surname Vogg are primarily associated with the field of music. One prominent figure is the German guitarist Alex Vogel, also known as Sascha Vogel, who is best recognized for his work as a member of the heavy metal band Blind Guardian. Another significant musician with the same last name is Stefan Vogel, a renowned bassoonist from Germany, who has been the principal bassoonist of the Berlin Philharmonic since 2016. Additionally, there is Chris Vognar, an American journalist and music critic, currently working at The Dallas Morning News. These individuals have made significant contributions in their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact in music.

Genealogical research on the last name Vogg

The surname Vogg is believed to have German origins, stemming from various regions including Bavaria and Swabia. Early records suggest that the name was derived from vocations, such as "Woge," meaning wave or wave-maker, associated with a profession related to water mills. One of the earliest known mentions of the Vogg family is in the town of Wiesentheid in Bavaria, where Johannes Vogt is recorded in 1632. The name's spelling and pronunciation have evolved over time, leading to variations like Voeg, Vohge, Voge, and Vogg found across Europe. Notable individuals bearing the name include Swiss physicist Jean-Louis Vogt (1890-1963) and German violinist Emil Vogt (1857-1924). The family tree of the Vogg lineage continues to expand as new records and genealogical research are uncovered.

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 : 28 July 2025

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