Please note that Kidadl is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon. They are very strict about cutting your hair concerning the women, no television, no make-up etc. 97. It is also considered as a feminine version of the name Victor. 45. Elizabeth continues to be one of the most favored names for young girls in the Amish community. Bechler (Amish and German origin) means "stream". Im not sure when my family left the Amish but I have traced them to Juniata county PA where Christian Sieber the second is buried near Mifflintown PA. I have a pen pal in Sri Lanka. Oesch (Esch), such an Amish surname is common in Amish from Indiana. A persons job may identify him, as in the example of Silo Mervin or Printer Mo. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. My uncle tried to get a researcher to find out more details about the Indian forefather, but nothing has been found. You can opt for this name if you want a unique name for your daughter. I did not notice them in the list, though I saw some in this pages photos. This is an interesting series of postings. Such names are very popular in the Amish community in Westphalia. Less common names among Amish include Jones, Girod, Phillips, Kuhns, Barkman, Kurtz, Whetstone, Bowman, and Bawell. I [], Check to be notified of comments on this post, Miller and Stoltzfus are among the most typical Amish last names, The Amish church directory | Amish America, History of Amish names: Hershberger | Amish America, History of Amish names: A Smiley Amishman by way of the British Isles | Amish America, Saturday brain dump: Rhymie Aaron, Big Valley Blues, and secrets of Amish heating. So which names do the Amish choose to name boys? That name is Mast. Originating from the Latin word Merces, Mercy stands for compassion, forgiveness, or pity. Her mothers name was Lizzie Miller, dont know when she was born. I dont know of any Moyers of Spanglers among Amish today, and dont recall having seen the name in historical context about Amish. Could your great grandfathers family have belonged to a different Anabaptist or Plain group? Miller is the family name. (September 6th, 2010 at 10:31), Saturday brain dump: Rhymie Aaron, Big Valley Blues, and secrets of Amish heating Learn more inour closer look at 10 of the most common Amish surnames. If you like flowers and nature, the name Susie would be the right choice for your daughter. I enjoy my new order Amish friends near where I live. It can be a cool name for your son. Bishop Jacob Mast had a brother Johannes (John) who went to North Carolina about 1757 to 1761. Scott (German origin) means "person From Scotland". I was born in 1963 in northern Indiana, and I have a long deceased younger brother named Scott, and a younger sister named Debbie or Debra. Often shortened to Josh, Joshua is a prominent Christian name that means savior or deliverer. She was asking me for more information on the Amish people, so I found myself here. The Amish have some of the most unique names for girls. 9 years ago. My great grandfather I have been told was from Pennsylvania and had the last name Enman. In many cases, an Amish individual will not have a middle name. (December 1st, 2010) In my church (Beachy Amish Mennonite) Gingerich, Yoder, Miller, Hostetler, Beiler, and Byler are most common, pretty much in that order.. A short and cute name, Elmo has German origins and derives from helm or helmet, meaning protection. You could consider it as a nickname if not as a first name for your child. Shop by category . Smith (German origin) means "one who works with metal". they are good, honest and loving people. His mothers maiden name was Miller. Johnathan (Also Jonathan) Johnathan is perhaps the most common male name in Amish communities. 2. Dorothy means gift of God. She named her daughter Rhoda. 37. I am also fascinated that you write Amish novels. This uncommon name is Hebrew for the god is light. They have a peacefulness about them that is infectious. Conrad (Amish and German origin) means "bold counsel". This is because of its heritage with the biblical "John," who was John the Baptist. Sweitzer (German origin) means "someone who is from Swiss". The name Amanda is girl's name of Latin origin meaning "she must be loved".. Ada. As in all segments of society there are a few who give the rest a bad name. Comment on What are common Amish names? Emma was also the name of the strong-minded heroine of a Jane Austen novel by the same name. Thanks. 39. Hence Irene signifies peaceful or peace. Bearing Hebrew origins, Ivan is a Russian variant of John, and stands for a gracious gift from God. A popular name among the Amish, Faith means confidence, trust or belief. This can be a great alternative to Jacob. Evan can be a great first name for your baby if you want one with an old-world charm. Lydia would be a beautiful name for your little girl. Perfect name for your white horse. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. Good. I also am related to a family of Masts from my mothers side. Certain last names are particularly common among the Amish, due to the fact that certain founders in this community had oversized influence on following generations. Hi Deb, Yowler is not an Amish name. Another common Christian name, Joseph was the Husband of Virgin Mary and Jesus legal father. Holding biblical roots, Gabriel was the name of the angel who informed Mary that she was going to give birth to Jesus. This name comes from Norse kempa which means a champion, just like your little son. Shop by category. In Hebrew, Jeremiah stands for exaltation of God. The horses were grazing happily in a big room pasture, with grass still on the ground. Hershberger (Amish and German origin) means "deer hart". Fisher, King, Lapp, Miller, Stoltzfus, and Yoder are very common Amish surnames. This will be an unusual, but solid name for your daughter. I had asked my father for more information about my family history many years ago, but he didnt know very much about that and now he is deceased. They are all ralated to English and the North Germanic languages of Scandinavia and Iceland but have evolved to the point where they are not intelligible to one another, but the relationship is easy to see in the everyday words and written language. So, if you're looking for Amish last names for your books, characters, or even online games, then we can help you. Thanks, OMII is now SAGA, which is Swiss Antibaptist geaneolgy association. 15. If my dad and Felty were right, then my cousins Glenn, Richard and late twin sister Sharon, Lyle, Earl, and Mark are slightly more than just 1st cousins. Hershberger has the alternate forms Herschberger and Harshberger. Unser Leit by Leroy Beachy (Amazon) is an amazing 1,000 pp. It is a Greek name with its origins in Hebrew. Finley - brave and fair warrior. Harrison means son of Harry. Kasdorf, such common Amish surnames are very popular among Old Order Amish in Pennsylvania. I currently live in Huntingdon County, not far from the Big Valley Amish settlement. If youd like to read a history of the Amish, Steven Nolts A History of the Amish is a good choice. Certain groups, such as New Order Amish, may be more likely to give their children less traditional first names. I know if a book is self published, you are pretty much on your own. 70. Christian came over I beleive in 1742 and Hans in 1736 both to the Northkill area. It has Saxon roots and is used quite often in the Amish community. Amish names have an old-world charm making them beautiful and devout. I do not know. While nearly 63 percent of the Amish live in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Indiana, smaller pockets can be found in as many as 31 states. The Amish are our neighbors and we highly value and respect them as members of our community. Mullet (German origin) means "fisherman or seller of these fish". 53. Yes, I know that the membership is low priced, but I am between jobs right now. 2) The easiest (and maybe the best) way to buy horses from the Amish, might be at auction facilities. A steed named after Shemp could have a personality that is a bit timid but eventually comes through in the end. Made famous in a novel written by Charles Dickens, Oliver comes from Olivier, which is German-French for an olive tree. Interesting and makes me wonder my husbands family is from northern Indiana. Springer (German origin) means "to jump or leap". He was born Thomas Weaver October, 30, 1863. 2. Thanks again for that information. This is a result both of the Amish reluctance to proselytize, and also the difficulty of joining a group with specific patterns of behavior, language, dress, and approach to technology. Derived from the Latin word Caritas, Charity means generous love.. Apart from being well-received among the Amish, it is a trendy name in England. My late father was Ervin J Mast, and he was born in northern Indiana in 1937. There are even Mast African-Americans now in Texas. Eicher (Amish and German origin) means "oak tree". 33. He was born 1811 or 10 I had a perfect day enjoying the National Percheron Show, that happened to be held on my day off from the Post Office. The horse looked strong and tall, which shiny coats, white . Such a last name is common in Amish and Mennonite families living in Pennsylvania. Tessa can be a sweet and short name for your little countess. Maria is a form of the Hebrew name Miriyam which means a sea of sadness or a sea of bitterness. ); could be why I have such an itense interest in your culture. The closest town is Butler, PA in Butler County. 25. Rebecca comes from the Hebrew word Rivquah which means a tie, join, or bond. Troyer (Amish and German origin) means "someone who lived by a cattle track". The whole district directory only at ten different surnames. Peter may be common, but a short and sweet name for your baby boy. It could also be a derivative of Ishtar, who was a Near Eastern goddess. 38. 26. Noah, although quite formal, is becoming popular in todays world. Swartzendruber (Schwartzentruber) (German origin) means "grape". Bailey - Cream-based. Thank you for any assistance you can provide. James is the Greek form of the name Jacob and means supplanter. Read for more information. This cool name has a French past as it is derived from le and roi, meaning the King. He had children with his first wife in Switzerland and his offspring with her used the Beyeler spelling; his second wife also from Switzerland brought their children to PA and soon after arriving his second wife died, and he married the third time. I can find no record of his birth, siblings, or forebears. There are usually buggy and riding horses available at these sales also. Don (Donovan) J. Beyeler, I would love to correspond with you but I do not have your email address. 96. Some girls name is our church are: Linda, Edna, Regina, Rhoda, Mary Ella, Mary Edna, Marietta, Rosetta, Ida Mae, Josephine, Marilyn, Pricsilla, Rosanna, etc. Phone: (330) 674-2300, Furniture Services: Manufacturing & Components. I _know_ that I read in the book that my paternal family got here in the 1700s, but my father was born in 1737; so my earlier statement that my family got here in 1737 might be off by a few years or decades. I have been trying to do some research on my family and that is how I stumbled upon this website. It is a dignified name for your daughter and will command respect from others. 31. If your baby doll likes to play with a Barbie, shed be happy to share her name with her. Walker is an occupational name for a road maker or a fuller. I think we need to do some research! Maria is another name of the Virgin Mary and can also mean wished-for child. 18. Loved this informative article. I just purchased an antique whirligig. Many Amish names come from the Bible. Bishop named his sons Eli, Isaac, Jason and John. 82. My great grandpa(unfortunately in the late stages of Alzheimers Disease in his 90th year, please pray for him)always said that he met my great grandma in Akron, OH at Firestone when she was a riveter during WW 2.Any hints about possible links to Amish roots would be greatly appreciated for me! My grandparents were born and raised in Pennsylvania and were farmers all of their lives. While they have the ability to canter, they generally have been trained to trot or pace. The majority of the Amish love their horses, some like they are a member of their family. William or Willa essentially stands for valiant protector. In addition to Amos, other Amish boy names include Jacob, Eli, Willis, and Abram. 106. His parents spoke PA Dutch and his brother who still lives up there also speaks it. Lavonne fanciness does factor in as you say, though as you know in your neck of the woods you do find some Amish giving their children non-traditional names. There is a recent book written about this. Jantzi (Amish and German origin) means "a pet form of Jantzen". These names were common in his old district. I have been doing some genealogy as of late and found that I have a huge number of Amish ancestors among them Isaac Kauffman and his wife Anna Streit from Switzerland,Also Christain Yoder and his wife Barbara Gerber,Andreas Holly/Hooley and wife Ann Troyer..there were also Fishers,Hartzlers,Zugs,Masts, It seems many of them were associated with the Northkill settlement early on.. Evan is a Welsh form of John or the Yhnn in Hebrew, meaning God is gracious. Most directories are updated every five to seven years. We also link to other websites, but are not responsible for their content. Because of Idunn's loving duties, this name could work for a strong, noble mare who is always up for a challenge. Trina is a short form of Katrina and derivation of the Latin word for triple, and used to refer to the Holy Trinity. This is also a common Christian name, as Saint Peter was the most prominent of the apostles. 2. Simon was one of the Apostles mentioned in the Bible. The names reflect their culture of simplicity and belief in peace. Ive traced my Biel family back to 1686 in a small town named Thalwenden,Germany. Dios bendiga Este hogar. I needed more names then Yoder Zook and Esh. She guards the apples that keep the Norse gods youthful. A feminine name of Jewish origins, Naomi is an exotic name that stands for pleasantness. Brandenberger (German origin) means "someone from a place called Brandenburg". While the Amish don't have any rules regarding the horse they use, most choose a standardbred. Evan could also be the shortened version of the Greek names Evangelos and Evander, which mean good messenger and good man, respectively. Sullivan - a name for a dark-eyed pet. Berkey (Burki) (Amish and German origin) means "unexplained". there was a Mary Farmer. It can be shortened to Gertie. We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents. Gingerich (Amish and German origin) means "powerful man". 39. This was in vogue since the 18th century and never really went out of fashion. Bontrager (Amish and German origin) means "water carrier". 64. Elmo (German origin), this cute name means "protection." 37. I specifically liked how you ranked the usage of names by different areas in the country. Shikha is a writer-turned-associate editor at MomJunction, with over seven years of experience in the field of content. The Amish are members of a Christian group in North America, and hence, Amish names usually have their roots in Christianity and may be religious. Comment on What are common Amish names? Donnermeyer, such Amish family names are common in Indiana. Bawell, a common Amish and German origin surname used by families living in Canada. Donegal - Name of Town. Wallace Wayne -b. Feb. 6, 1928 Legend has it that Noah built a giant ark that allowed him, his family and all species of animals to survive the Great Flood. The name Edna is refreshing and stylish. Height (hh) 13.1. The Amish believe strongly in education, but only provide formal education through the eighth grade. After my fathers coal mining accident we moved to central PA. My G-Grandfather Jonas joined the army during the civil war which moved our branch of the Yoder away from its amish roots. However, in Greek, Martha means bitter. Maria is a very prominent name and has variations in almost every language. 76. I have many photos/video of this area from being there in 2013. I would like to know if we have some Amish roots in us. This Persian-derived name, meaning light, gained popularity after the Game of Thrones star Lena Head Leadey. A character from the Old Testament, Hannah was Elkanahs wife and the mother of Samuel. 11. Picking this name would be ideal, considering youd want her to be both brilliant and memorable in the future. I know there is a Kistler Valley in PA, but dont know if its in the Amish area. Hi JD, In Holmes County, a Swartzenbruber women shared with me that after having 6 boys, she was having a girl. Did you know the Amish name Yoder had many alternative spellings, like Yoeder, Ioder, and Jotter? Not many among the Swartzentrubers though. The Amish and Mennonites are branches of the Anabaptist Christian religion, and many of the most common Amish baby names are biblical names such as Sarah and Amos. My family started in PA and then moved to Ohio, then to northern Indiana so we have kind of a mix of the more area specific names. My father has mentioned over the years that they were Amish. I have photographed the buildings that have been identified as a part of the property of Jacob Mast, immigrant of 1737, identified by J. Lemar and Lois Ann Mast of Morgantown, PA. It was very helpful for my book. Pick Chandler, and who knows, your son might turn out to be as witty and sarcastic as the fictional Chandler! Most everyone calls him Bishop Zack-he also introduces himself as Bishop Zack-unless it is something formal or where his legal name is needed. Brian, welcome and glad you commented. Who hasnt heard of the great King Solomon? Since the Amish people speak German, most of the names are of German origin. An ancient Hebrew name and a diminutive of Isaac, Ike means to laugh or laughter. You must remember that there was no standard German language at the time most of the Amish and Mennonite immigrants came to the new world. Loisa is a traditional Christian name that comes from the name Lois, who according to the Old Testament, was the pious and religious grandmother of Saint Timothy. Typically, Amish names are names with German or Biblical roots. Color. Dow - Best for Dark. Thanks, My grandparents are also Musser but from VA and PA not sure if they were Amish, The SAGA-OMII databases list over 6000 mussers. Wagler, is a German origin surname that is very popular in the Pennsylvania Amish families. There is a huge settlement of Amish communities in the United States and Canada. Finnegan - white and fair. He was born holding the heel of his twin brother, hence referred to as the holder of heel or supplanter. The name also refers to St. Elmo, or Erasmus, who is the patron of sailors. I just thought that was such a strange name and almost sounded like the Mexican name Juanita. It means servant of God and well accepted by The Amish. I was interested to see that it must be a pretty common name in order to make your list! Walker originates from walkere, an Old English word meaning to walk or to tread. Oliver also stands for peace, as an olive branch is a symbol of peace. It is a name of Hebrew origin, meaning beloved or drop of the sea.. Lengacher (Amish and German origin) means "celebration". 2 of his other brothers were talking of leaving the Amish as well and my ggranfathers parents decided to leave the order because they did not want to lose their sons. This information is for educational purposes only and not a substitution for professional health services. He asked his mom about it and she reluctantly informed him that his grandfather was a Cherokee who taken in during a snow storm by his great grandparents. I may have misinterpreted the statement. Erik, in the history of the Amish church (post New World settlement), was there a time when there was more conversion to the church that could possibly explain some of the English sounding last names? They were not of Swiss extraction as some Amish surnames are. Kids bring hope to our lives, so what better name to give your child than Hope! 87. If you can find the name in the Bible, in particular the Old Testament, there's a good chance it will be popular among Amish communities. I have studied the history of the Bishop Jacob Mast, his uncle Jacob Mast, and many other Masts rather extensively over the years. 94. Well, then why not call your baby boy Harrison? At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world. The Hebrew meaning of Daniel is God is my Judge. Then why not name her Charity? Click here for the list Amish Novels Moyer has been seen among Mennonites though, more on that here: http://www.gameo.org/encyclopedia/contents/M694ME.html. That uncles name was and is Felty, and he lives in Shipshewana, Indiana. Idunn was a goddess in Norse mythology. I googled it and only came up with the Spanish American Genealogical Association. The name Amanda is an adorable choice for your little daughter as it means worthy of love or lovable. This Latin name is quite popular and has many diminutive forms like Amy and Manny, to name a few. I was also pleased to see that my first and last names were listed as still being so common . 2, 1934 Comment on What are common Amish names? http://www.mcusa-archives.org/library/omh/pdf/1.3.pdf An Old English name, Fletcher stands for maker of arrows. It is a name of Latin origin that means sweet. It is the alternative form of the Latin name Melinda. Did you know that the given name of Prince Harry, of the Royal Family of Britain, is Henry? I am trying to find any information on my G Grandfather who left the Amish Mennonite Church in the 1880s. The biblical reference would be Saint Laurence, who was killed in Rome. That having been said: Here is strong evidence IMO that the Amish arrived in this country in the 1700s: Daniel J. Kauffman -b. Feb. 27, 1891 and Lovina Miller b-nov. 28 ,1907 I learned to know your brother-in-law, David Hershberger a bit. Graber (Amish and German origin) means "to dig or excavate". Albrecht: My novel is titled A White Christmas, Finally! The Most Common Amish Surnames. A very common Amish last name that was missed. As a mother, you understand the significance of giving life to a new human and how precious your daughter is to you. Hartzler (Hertzler) (German origin) means "resin". 30. Beth also means lively. 42. This beautiful name has Hebrew origins and stands for faithful. The name Lena could be a diminutive form of many other names like Helena or could be the first name by itself. But I would know if this is true and I belive as farther did is why they cant find the link where we came to the US in 1706 by the church in Germany . I also have some Amish relatives with the last name of Stutzman that wasnt mentioned. 46. Sadie used to be a variation of Sara, which means lady or princess. Brian. The birth order may be incorrect. Miller is most common in the Midwest. I also have a daughter named Anna Mae and mein husband is named Jonas. Millersburg, OH 44654 Also my great grandma was named Margaret Geneva Hoffman Snawder, could they have been Amish, too? A few classic names for boys loved by Amish communities are listed here. Keep trying, its well worth the money, for Amish and Mennonite. Whats more, you can even shorten it to Liddie. Derived from German beraht, which means bright or famous, Bertha is an old-fashioned but an excellent name for your baby girl. Within these 3 marriages his offspring used the surnames Beyeler in Switzerland and Beiler, Byler, Biler, and Boiler in PA. Other Beyelers were spelled Beieler and Beyler most of whom were not Amish-Mennonite. Bender (Amish and German origin) means "to bend". Barbara is derived from Greek Barbaros, meaning foreign or strange. Berkey (Burki) (Amish and German origin) means "unexplained". The name could be a nice choice for your son, who might imbibe the same qualities if you choose this royal name for him. You hear a lot of stories of Amish treating horses poorly. Albrecht (Amish and German origin) means "bright or famous". Its not a common Lancaster County name, Im not sure how many Amish Masts might even be in that settlement or Lancaster sister settlements. In the Bible, Ike was the name of the only son born to Sarah and Abraham. I cannot access that book in order to verify _everything_ that I remembered reading as a child, so it is entirely possible that I got some facts screwed up. 72. One of the most prominent first names in the world, Henry is derived from the German words heim or home and ric or ruler. Your happy baby girl deserves a unique name. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. They looked great. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. From lino cutting to surfing to childrens mental health, their hobbies and interests range far and wide. There is also a great mystery on my moms Amish side that surfaced only a few years ago. His Dad uses the full Zachariah. It was initially a Hebrew name and means borne by God, strong. We found this name to be very interesting and perfect for your baby boy. Lloyd comes from Llwyd, which in Welsh means grey. A form of Hannah, often mentioned in the Old Testament. Albrecht means intelligent or noble and bright. If you love horses, the good-old-days, or if you're intrigued by Amish culture. Kraybill (German origin) means "crow". I love it when they have church at their house because I get to see all the buggies and other Amish in the neighborhood go by. It is a short and sweet name for your baby girl. 95. 1. 3. We could have added a number of names to this list in fact. Then this Amish first name of German origin is for your bundle of joy. 91. 90. Some surnames are found in particular communities and regions. Although it is also a surname, it is fast becoming a preferred choice for a first name. I am 13 and writing a book called Amish Grace. Can you provide the URL? Maggie has had one home with an Amish family for 12 years. Heiser (Amish and German origin) means "hoarse". A common Amish name, Jonah means a dove. Your babys birth marked a new morning in your life, so why not name her Dawn? Choosing this name for your baby boy will make Isaac Newton his namesake. 79. Another Hebrew meaning of Jacob is may God protect. Most Amish and related faiths came from the Rhineland or Switzerland and what today is Alsace part of France. Pricey, but worth every penny for serious students of Amish history. Skip to main content. Amish typically choose Biblical first names, or names with a long tradition in the particular family or community. Poor guy. There are large sales held every spring and fall called Draft Horse Sales. I also dont recall seeing it among former/extinct lineages in Amish histories. Bob Farmer. My great-great grandmothers surnameback in Germany in the mid-1800s, before she came to the U.S. was Zimmerman. I do not know his mothers name. Miller is the most common Amish name, seen most prevalently in the Midwest, in communities such as Holmes County, Ohio and northern Indiana. It is quite poignant if you ask us. Support our efforts by sourcing your Wood-Fired, Organic, Pure, Vermont Maple Syrup from https://ruggedridgeforest.com/ !While growing our team of standardb. Amish Country Horses Berlin, OH 330-715-4885 wade@amishcountryhorses.com Moorhead Reduction Buckeye Dutch . It is such a graceful name for your baby girl, isnt it? Don't like the names? Both my mom and one of her sisters (maiden name Miller) married a Mast. A fan of Chandler Bing from the TV show Friends? Having done a certification in Relationship Coaching, her core interest lies in writing articles that guide couples through their courtship to marriage and parenthood. Anything you can tell me would be most appreciated. These include [], History of Amish names: Hershberger | Amish America Joanna Sommer. Click to enlarge. Further, most Amish people have similar surnames. 41. Some Amish names are no longer seen today, often because the last of a "line" may have assimilated with a higher church, or did not have sons who joined the Amish. I know LeRoys fathers name was Edgar Kistler. 3. Kinisger, such last name is common among Amish family. Lucius stands for born at daylight or dawn or of light complexion. Camp (Kemp) (Amish and German origin) means "the field". Jodie is the female form of Jude or Judas which derived from Saint Judas. Tanner comes from the act of tanning hides and is an often used occupational name among the Amish. It is a poignant name for your little gift from God. 21. A Roman name, Victor means the conqueror. Hi Brian, my mother was a Mast from Holmes County, Ohio. This is a typical Amish first name. Also, how does someone go about finding more information about a history into a family of Amish background? This probably will sound frivolous to most of you. A very trendy name in the 1900s, Mildred is reduced to usage among only the Amish and scattered states. Imhoff (German origin) means "farmstead. My ancestors kept it only for about one generation here when they settled in PA. 12. You can also check out our articles on Amish first names and saint names for boys, right here on Kidadl.