Kirchofer

Topographic

Meaning

One who lives near a church or church courtyard.

Etymology

Derived from German 'Kirche' (church) and 'Hof' (court, farmstead). The suffix '-er' indicates a person associated with or living at such a location.

About the Kirchofer Surname

A Swiss-German surname indicating residence near a church or its associated courtyard. Such surnames were common in Alpine communities where churches served as central landmarks.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 3,500 bearers in the United States #2,086 most common surname
Rare Common

Found in Switzerland, Germany, and surrounding Alpine regions.

Kirchofer Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Kirchofer Surname