Last Name Von-kruger

The surname "von Kruger" is a German and Dutch patronymic surname, deriving from the given name Kruger, which means "crooked hook" in German. The "von" prefix in German-speaking countries indicates nobility or knighthood. It's important to note that the exact origin of each instance of the name can vary, as surnames often developed from a variety of factors such as geographical location, occupation, or personal attributes.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Von-kruger

The meaning and origin of the last name Von-kruger

The surname Von Kruger is a German name, derived from two elements: "von," which indicates noble lineage, and "Kruger," a topographic name or an occupational name. The root word "Krug" means a tub, barrel, or vat in German, suggesting that the original bearer of this surname may have lived near such a container or perhaps worked with them. The prefix "von" is often used among the nobility and was adopted by families who were ennobled or wanted to emphasize their aristocratic lineage. The exact origin and first known bearer of the name Von Kruger are not definitively known, but it's clear that it has its roots in German history.

Geographical distribution of the last name Von-kruger

The surname Von Kruger is predominantly found in Germany, specifically in regions such as Saxony, Brandenburg, and Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, where it has historical roots dating back to the Middle Ages. The name is derived from the Old High German 'Huchhug' or 'Kruo', meaning 'corner' or 'crook', and 'Burg', denoting a fortified settlement. Over time, the name spread through migration waves, particularly during the 18th and 19th centuries, to other parts of Europe, including Russia, Scandinavia, and the United States. In the US, significant concentrations can be found in states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, and North Dakota, where German immigration was prominent during the 19th century. Today, the Von Kruger surname is also present in various other countries as a result of diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Von-kruger

The surname Von Kruger can have several variations and spellings due to differences in translation, phonetics, and historical recordkeeping. Some of these versions include:

1. Von Krueger
2. Von Kuether
3. Von Crugier
4. Von Kruegler
5. Von Crooger
6. Van Kruger
7. Van Crugier
8. Von Kreuger
9. Von Krüger
10. Von Kruegler (German spelling with umlaut)
11. Von Kuhr
12. Von Kröger
13. Von Krueger-Lowe (hyphenated form)
14. Van Kruyers (plural form in Dutch)
15. DeKruger (Dutch variant without the noble prefix 'Von')

These variations may arise from different translations of the name from German to other languages, or due to the varying methods used for spelling and pronunciation over time and across regions.

Famous people with the last name Von-kruger

Notable individuals with the surname Von Kruger include:

1. Otto von Bismarck (1815-1898), a Prussian and German statesman, known as the "Iron Chancellor" for his leadership role in unifying Germany.

2. Ferdinand von Bernhardi (1849-1934), a German general and military theorist, best known for his book "Germany and the Next War," which advocated for aggressive warfare.

3. Rudolf von Bennigsen (1752-1804), a Russian field marshal of German descent, who served in the Imperial Russian Army during the Napoleonic Wars.

4. Ernst Wilhelm Naegele von Kruger (1813-1900), a Prussian general who participated in the Danish War and Austro-Prussian War.

5. Adolf Friedrich von Krug (1731-1796), a German architect, known for designing several buildings in Potsdam, including the Marble Palace.

These individuals have made significant contributions across various fields such as politics, military, and architecture in their respective eras.

Genealogical research on the last name Von-kruger

The surname Von Kruger is of German origin, derived from the geographical location "Krüger" or a nickname referring to a craftsman known as a "Krugermeister," meaning master of a barrel or cask. The name was first recorded in the 14th century, with prominent families originating from various regions in Germany, particularly Westphalia and Pomerania.

As German settlers migrated globally, so did the Von Kruger family. In the 1700s, they were among the early German immigrants to settle in South Africa, specifically in what is now known as the Eastern Cape province. The most notable Von Kruger was Paul Kruger, who served as the President of both the South African Republic and later the Transvaal Colony from 1883 to 1900. His leadership during the Second Boer War earned him international recognition.

The Von Kruger family also spread across North America, with notable figures in the United States and Canada, contributing to various industries and government roles throughout history. Today, the surname remains relatively uncommon but maintains its historic roots in Germany and South Africa.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "von-kruger"
• 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 : 30 July 2025

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