History and Significance of the Surname Zehner

The Origins of the Surname Zehner

The surname Zehner is of German origin and is derived from the word "zehn" which means ten in German. It is believed that the surname Zehner may have originally been used to denote a person who was associated with the number ten in some way, such as a tax collector or someone who owned ten of something.

Germany

In Germany, the surname Zehner is relatively common with a reported incidence of 1955. It is found throughout the country, with concentrations in regions such as Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Hesse. The name has likely been in use in Germany for centuries, and many families with the surname Zehner can trace their roots back to the region.

United States

In the United States, the surname Zehner is also fairly common with an incidence of 3301. German immigrants likely brought the name with them to the United States in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, descendants of these immigrants can be found in states such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Illinois.

Austria

In Austria, the surname Zehner has a reported incidence of 231. It is found primarily in the eastern regions of the country, such as Vienna and Lower Austria. Austrian families with the surname Zehner may have originated from German-speaking areas or have other connections to Germany.

France

In France, the surname Zehner has a reported incidence of 170. It is not as common in France as it is in Germany or the United States, but there are still families with the name scattered throughout the country. The name may have been brought to France by German immigrants or may have originated in the Alsace region, which has historically been a mix of German and French cultures.

Other Countries

While the surname Zehner is most commonly found in Germany, the United States, and Austria, it can also be found in smaller numbers in countries such as Poland, Luxembourg, Canada, and Switzerland. The name has even made its way to countries outside of Europe, such as Australia and South Africa.

Overall, the surname Zehner has a rich history and has been carried by families across multiple generations and continents. Its origins in Germany and its spread to other countries demonstrate the interconnectedness of family names and the ways in which they can be passed down through the centuries.