Becman History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

Origins Available:
Germany

Etymology of Becman

What does the name Becman mean?

The surname Becman was first used as a hereditary surname in the ancient German province of Westphalia. It identified its original bearer by occupation. Surnames of this type became popular in Germany after the 12th century. Becman is a name for a baker, and it is derived from the German word beck. The family name Becman is also a cognate of the German name Bach, which either refers to the occupation of baker or to someone who lived by a stream.

Early Origins of the Becman family

The surname Becman was first found in Westphalia and the duchy of Cleves, where the family contributed to the feudal communities which formed the backbone of Europe society. The family became prominent in local affairs and branched into numerous houses and branches. Many of these houses played important roles in the religious and political conflicts of their regions.

Early History of the Becman family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Becman research. Another 173 words (12 lines of text) covering the years 1749 and 1782 are included under the topic Early Becman History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Becman Spelling Variations

One can encounter great variation in the spelling of surnames: in early times, spelling in general, and thus the spelling of names was not yet standardized; and later, spellings would change with branching and movement of families. Variations of the name Becman include Bechmann, Bechman, Becman, Beckmann, Beckman, Bachmann, Bachman, Backmann, Backman, Beckermann, Beckerman, Bechermann and many more.

Early Notables of the Becman family

Another 43 words (3 lines of text) are included under the topic Early Becman Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Becman family

Many Germans emigrated across the Atlantic to seek better lives in North America. This great migration began in the middle of the 17th century and continued into the 20th century. Resettlement was particularly attractive to those from Westphalia as a means of escape from poverty and religious persecution. For many Westphalian farmers, the chance to own one's own land was also a major incentive. The process of the widespread colonization of the United States began in 1650, when many immigrants from Germany settled in pockets in Pennsylvania, Texas, New York, Illinois, and California. In Canada, German settlements centered around Ontario and the Prairie provinces. Among them were: Francis Bechman, who arrived in Philadelphia in 1855. Joseph Bechmann arrived in Philadelpia in 1832; while both Frank Bechman and Frederick Bechmancame to Philadelphia in 1853..