Foerster Name Meaning, Facts & Family History

Foerster Name Meaning and Family History

The surname Foerster is of German origin and derives from the word "Forster" or "Forstmann," meaning "forest keeper" or "forest warden." The name was originally given to individuals who worked in or had authority over the forests, primarily in Austria and Germany.
In terms of family history, individuals with the Foerster surname were likely to have held the position of forest supervisor or manager and were responsible for maintaining, protecting, and overseeing the forests. The surname was likely passed down through generations within families who continued to work in this profession.
As with many surnames, variations may exist over time and across regions. In some cases, the spelling may change to Förster, Förstner, Färster, or similar variations. It is always recommended to conduct a more personalized genealogical research to trace the specific family history and origins of the Foerster surname.

Facts About the Surname Foerster

1. Foerster is a German surname derived from the occupational name for a forester or gamekeeper.
2. The surname Foerster is derived from the Middle High German word "vorster" or "vorsteren," meaning "forest warden" or "forester."
3. Variations of the surname Foerster include Förster, Forster, Forstner, and Forester.
4. The Foerster surname is fairly common in Germany, particularly in the regions of Saxony, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg.
5. The first recorded instance of the Foerster surname dates back to the 13th century in the city of Berlin, Germany.
6. Many people with the Foerster surname emigrated from Germany to the United States during the 19th and 20th centuries, seeking better economic opportunities and religious freedom.
7. Notable individuals with the Foerster surname include Jonathan Safran Foer, an American writer known for his novels "Everything Is Illuminated" and "Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close."
8. The Foerster surname can also be found in other countries with Germanic roots, such as Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.
9. The Foerster surname is relatively easy to recognize and spell due to its consistent spelling and pronunciation in German.
10. Today, individuals with the Foerster surname can be found in various professions and industries worldwide, reflecting their diverse backgrounds and interests.

Famous People With the Surname Foerster

1. Karl Foerster - German horticulturist and landscape architect
2. Jonathan Safran Foer - American novelist
3. Werner Foerster - German border guard and police officer involved in the 1977 hijacking of a Lufthansa aircraft
4. Reinhard Foerster - German actor
5. John Foerster - American businessman and philanthropist
6. Robert Förster - German professional road bicycle racer
7. Adolf Foerster - German politician and writer
8. Herbert Foerster - German architect and urban planner
9. Gustav Foerster - German philosopher and educator
10. Theodor von Oppolzer Foerster - Austrian mathematician and astronomer

All People Whose Last Name is "Foerster"