How common is the Knappen surname?

There are approximately 1,200 people with the surname Knappen in the United States.

Are there Knappen soldiers in Civil War records?

Yes, 13 soldiers with the Knappen surname appear in Civil War records.

Knappen

Q: What does the surname Knappen mean?

The surname Knappen means "One who snaps, bites, or works with a snapping motion; possibly related to button-making or similar crafts.". It is of German/Dutch origin.

Occupational

Meaning

One who snaps, bites, or works with a snapping motion; possibly related to button-making or similar crafts.

Etymology

The surname derives from the German or Dutch verb 'knappen' (to snap, bite, or crack), combined with the agent suffix '-en' or '-er'. It may indicate an occupational origin related to a craft involving snapping or breaking materials.

About the Knappen Surname

This surname likely has occupational origins, though the specific trade remains uncertain. It appears sporadically in German and Dutch records.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 1,200 bearers in the United States #3,484 most common surname

Rare Common

Found in German-speaking and Dutch-speaking regions, particularly in the Rhineland and Netherlands.

Knappen Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer

People with the Knappen Surname

T.M. Knappen

Quick Facts

Origin: German/Dutch
Classification: Occupational
Earliest Record: 17th century
Estimated Bearers: 1,200

War Records

13 soldiers with the Knappen surname found in Civil War records.

Search war records →