Schmidtke family crest and coat of arms

The family name Schmidtke is of European origin and is derived from the German word "Schmidt," meaning "smith," and the suffix "-ke," which is a common diminutive in German surnames. Therefore, the meaning of the surname Schmidtke is likely "son of the smith" or "little smith." It could also mean "descendant of a blacksmith," as "Schmidt" can refer to a blacksmith in some regions of Germany.

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

Schmidtke is a family name that has various variations across different regions and cultures. These variations reflect the diverse history and migration patterns of the people who bear this name. In Germany, where the name is most commonly found, variations such as Schmidtknecht, Schmidtko, and Schmidtkamp can be seen. These variations may have originated from different occupational or geographical associations.

Outside of Germany, variations of Schmidtke can be found in countries with Germanic influences. In Poland, for example, the name may appear as Szmitek or Szmitekowicz. In the Netherlands, it could be spelled as Smitke or Smitkamp. These variations demonstrate how the name has adapted to the linguistic and cultural nuances of different regions.

Furthermore, as families migrated to new countries, additional variations of Schmidtke emerged. In the United States, for instance, the name may be anglicized to Smithkey or Smithka. These variations reflect the assimilation and integration of families into their new environments.

Overall, the variations of the Schmidtke family name highlight the rich tapestry of human history, migration, and cultural exchange.

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources:

• Get your official family crest here.
• Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
• See an introduction at wikipedia.com