History and Significance of the Surname Rockel

The Origin of the Surname Rockel

The surname Rockel is of German origin and is derived from the Middle High German word "rockel," which means "rock" or "stone." It is believed that the surname was originally used to describe someone who lived near a prominent rock or stone formation, or perhaps someone who worked with rocks or stones in some way.

German Distribution of the Surname Rockel

In Germany, the surname Rockel is relatively common, with a total incidence of 1,666. It is most commonly found in the southern regions of Germany, particularly in the states of Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. The surname has deep roots in German history and culture, and many families with the surname Rockel can trace their ancestry back to medieval times.

United States Distribution of the Surname Rockel

The surname Rockel has also made its way to the United States, where it has a total incidence of 484. German immigrants to the United States in the 19th and early 20th centuries brought the surname with them, and today there are Rockel families scattered across the country. The surname has become anglicized over time, with variations such as Rockwell and Rockhill also being used.

Canadian Distribution of the Surname Rockel

In Canada, the surname Rockel has a total incidence of 114. It is most commonly found in the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia, where many German immigrants settled in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The surname has become part of the rich tapestry of Canadian surnames, reflecting the country's cultural diversity.

British Distribution of the Surname Rockel

In England, the surname Rockel has a total incidence of 31. While not as common as in Germany or the United States, the surname has a presence in England, particularly in the southern regions of the country. The surname is a reminder of the historical connections between England and Germany, and the influence of German immigrants on English culture.

Other International Distribution of the Surname Rockel

Outside of Germany and English-speaking countries, the surname Rockel is less common but still present in various parts of the world. In New Zealand, the surname has a total incidence of 26, while in Brazil it has a total incidence of 25. In France, the surname has a total incidence of 22, reflecting the historical connections between France and Germany.

In Australia, the surname Rockel has a total incidence of 6, while in Jamaica it has a total incidence of 5. In Switzerland, Denmark, Ecuador, Grenada, Japan, and Kazakhstan, the surname Rockel has a lower total incidence, with only 2 occurrences in each country. In China, the Czech Republic, Guatemala, India, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, the surname is even rarer, with only 1 occurrence in each country.

Overall, the surname Rockel is a fascinating example of a surname with German roots that has spread around the world, reflecting the movements of people and the connections between different cultures and countries.