Welker

Occupational

Meaning

One who works with wool or a fuller who processes cloth.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle High German 'walken' meaning 'to full' or 'to work cloth,' with the agent suffix '-er' indicating an occupational role. The name originated among textile workers in German-speaking regions.

About the Welker Surname

An occupational surname referring to cloth workers or fullers in medieval German communities. The name reflects the skilled textile trades that were central to medieval European economies.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 12,000 bearers in the United States #1,040 most common surname
Rare Common

Found primarily in Germany and German-speaking regions, with some presence in North America through German immigration.

Welker Surname Distribution

Geographic distribution based on Civil War military records.

Fewer
More

Notable Bearers

People with the Welker Surname