How common is the Herschel surname?

There are approximately 35,000 people with the surname Herschel in the United States.

Are there Herschel soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 43 soldiers with the Herschel surname appear in Civil War records.

Herschel

Q: What does the surname Herschel mean?

The surname Herschel means "Derived from the Hebrew name Herschel, a diminutive of Hersch, meaning 'deer'.". It is of Yiddish, Hebrew origin.

Patronymic

Meaning

Derived from the Hebrew name Herschel, a diminutive of Hersch, meaning 'deer'.

Etymology

From Yiddish Herschel, a diminutive form of Hersch, which derives from Hebrew 'ayyal' (deer) or possibly from Germanic roots. The name was common among Ashkenazi Jewish communities.

About the Herschel Surname

Herschel is a Yiddish surname derived from Hebrew origins, common among Ashkenazi Jewish communities. The name gained prominence through the famous astronomer William Herschel and his sister Caroline.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 35,000 bearers in the United States #652 most common surname

Rare Common

Found primarily among Jewish populations, particularly Ashkenazi Jews, with presence in Europe, Israel, and North America.

Herschel Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Herschel Surname

W.H. Herschel

Quick Facts

Origin: Yiddish, Hebrew
Classification: Patronymic
Earliest Record: Medieval period (Ashkenazi Jewish communities)
Estimated Bearers: 35,000

War Records

43 soldiers with the Herschel surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →