Map of Switzerland showing where the Knochel arms are recorded
The Knochel arms were recorded in Berne, c. 1745.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Switzerland in this period.
How Arms Worked in Switzerland
In Switzerland, coats of arms were not restricted to the nobility and were often adopted by common citizens and families. These symbols were passed down through generations to show family identity. When branches of a family grew, they often changed small details of the design to distinguish their own line from the original group.
Granting authority
Cantonal and civic authorities managed the use of coats of arms within their specific regions and local jurisdictions.
How they got arms
Families typically assumed their own coats of arms based on local custom rather than receiving them from a central monarch.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in various cantonal and civic registers starting from the fourteenth century throughout the Swiss region.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Switzerland.
Origin & History of the Knochel Family in Switzerland
The family name Knochel originates from the German-speaking regions of Europe, with deep roots tied to the historic city of Berne. By the year 1745, records confirm that members of the family were already established residents within this area. The name itself is thought to be a variation of the Middle High German word "knoche," which translates to bone or knuckle. In medieval times, such names were often used as descriptive nicknames for individuals who possessed a sturdy physical build or perhaps worked in a trade related to butchery or bone carving. As families grew and moved across borders, the spelling evolved to fit local dialects, eventually settling into the form recognized today. These early ancestors were likely part of the hardworking artisan or farming classes who helped shape the social and economic landscape of the region during the eighteenth century.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Knoche
A Middle High German term referring to a bone or knuckle.
This name
KnochelA topographic or occupational name for someone with a bony physique or a bone carver.
also spelled
Cnuchel
Knuch
Nukel
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Brechenmacher, Josef Karlmann. Etymologisches Wörterbuch der deutschen Familiennamen. 1957
Heintze, Albert. Die deutschen Familiennamen: geschichtlich, geographisch, sprachlich. 1903
Staatsarchiv des Kantons Bern. Kirchenbücher der Stadt Bern. 1745
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
eagleNobility, strength and a keen mind
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
eagleNobility, strength and a keen mind
