Barnstein History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

Etymology of Barnstein

What does the name Barnstein mean?

The German state of Prussia, which reached the zenith of its power in the late 19th century, is the glorious birthplace of the distinguished surname Barnstein. In the medieval era, after the fall of the Roman Empire, the German lands were inhabited by a variety of Barbarian tribes. The borders of the Barbarian kingdoms changed frequently, but the region that became known as Prussia was roughly divided between the areas of Brandenburg-Prussia, West Prussia, and East Prussia. The colorful history of Brandenburg-Prussia provides a glimpse at the oldest origins of the Barnstein family.

Early Origins of the Barnstein family

The surname Barnstein was first found in Prussia, where the name was anciently associated with the tribal conflicts of the area. They declared allegiances to many nobles and princes of early history, lending their influence in struggles for power and status within the region. They branched into numerous houses, and their contributions were sought by many leaders in their search for power.

Early History of the Barnstein family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Barnstein research. Another 81 words (6 lines of text) covering the years 1812 and 1884 are included under the topic Early Barnstein History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Barnstein Spelling Variations

Many cultural groups lived in the German states in medieval times. Each had its own dialect and traditions, and unique variations of popular names. Low German, which is similar to contemporary Dutch, was spoken in Westphalia. German names are characterized by additions such as regional suffixes and phrases that tell something about the origin or background of its original bearer. Further contributing to the variation in German names was the fact that there were no spelling rules in medieval times: scribes recorded names according to their sound. The recorded spelling variations of Barnstein include Bernstein, Baerenstein, Baernstein, Barnestein, Barnstein, Bernsteine, Bernestein, Bernstien, Bernestien and many more.

Early Notables of the Barnstein family

More information is included under the topic Early Barnstein Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Barnstein family

Since medieval times, the state of Prussia has played an important part in the history of Germany. The state's military powers were historically very strong, and endured until after the Second World War, when the territory was broken up and divided between the Soviet Union, Poland, East Germany and West Germany. A spurt of migration followed, with some Prussians going elsewhere in Europe and many others crossing the ocean to North America. Most entered the United States through Philadelphia. Some remained there, while more moved on to the states of Ohio, Texas, Illinois, California, New York, and Maryland. Others traveled to Canada and settled Ontario and the prairie provinces. Research into the origins of individual families in North America revealed records of the immigration of a number of people bearing the name Barnstein or a variant listed above: Edward Bernstein, who came to Philadelphia, Pa. in 1856; Joseph Bernstein arrived in Texas in 1844; Peter Bernstein settled in Philadelphia in 1868.