Kern Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kern come from? What does the surname Kern mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kern and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Kern Origin: What does the last name Kern mean?
The surname Kern has German origins, first appearing in records from Germany in the early 16th century. It has remained closely associated with Germany throughout history and started to grow significantly in the United States during the 18th century. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Kern surname grew significantly in the United States, where it remains prominent today.
YourRoots data confirms the presence of the Kern surname in Germany since the early 16th century. The surname's history is closely tied to Germany, but it has also spread to the United States, where it has become a common surname. The Kern surname has a rich history and continues to be prominent in both Germany and the United States.
Kern Last Name History: Where did the last name Kern come from?
Origin of Kern Surname: Where does the last name Kern originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Kern first appeared in records from Germany around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Kern spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Kern: What does the Kern surname history look like in the early days?
The Kern surname remained closely associated with Germany in the 16th century, and later started growing significantly in the United States during the 18th century.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kern surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Kern surname grew significantly in the United States. The Kern surname remains prominent in the United States.
Explore Kern last name heritage and Kern surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kern Surame?
Jerome Kern
Jerome David Kern (Jan 27, 1885 – Nov 11, 1945) was an American composer known for his contributions to musical theatre and popular music. With over 700 songs and more than 100 stage works, Kern created classics like "Ol' Man River," "The Way You Look Tonight," and "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes." Collaborating with renowned lyricists and librettists of his time, Kern's innovations in music, including 4/4 dance rhythms and jazz progressions, set the standard for future musicals. His work continues to be performed and adapted, with his musical "Show Boat" being regularly revived. Kern's legacy as a pioneering composer in American theatre endures.
Joey Kern
Joseph Daniel Kern (born Sep 5, 1976) is an American actor and director best known for his roles in the films Cabin Fever and Grind. Kern started his career on stage before breaking into feature films in the late '90s. He has appeared in various indie films and TV shows, including a recurring role on TNT's Good Behavior. Kern also wrote, directed, and starred in the film Big Bear. Outside of his career, he dated actress Ginnifer Goodwin and comes from a talented family, with his brother being Broadway actor Kevin Kern.
Richard Kern
Richard Kern (born 1954) is an American underground filmmaker, writer, and photographer known for his provocative and experimental work. He rose to fame in the 1980s East Village scene with films like "The Right Side of My Brain" and "Fingered," featuring iconic figures such as Lydia Lunch and Sonic Youth. Kern's unique aesthetic explores themes of extreme sex and violence, aligning with the Cinema of Transgression movement. Transitioning to still photography in the 1990s, he gained recognition for his celebrity portraits and nude photography. Kern continues to be a prominent figure in the art world, contributing to various publications and directing projects like "Shot By Kern."
Christian Kern
Christian Kern (January 4, 1966 -) is an Austrian businessman and former politician who served as Chancellor of Austria and chairman of the Social Democratic Party. Starting as a business journalist, he later became CEO of the Austrian Federal Railways, emphasizing historical reflection and migrant crisis support. Known for his progressive policies and dedication to workers' rights, Kern brought a fresh perspective to Austrian politics during his tenure. His leadership style and commitment to social issues have made him a prominent figure in modern Austrian history.
John W. Kern
John Worth Kern (Dec 20, 1849 – Aug 17, 1917) was a Democratic U.S. Senator from Indiana, known as the first Senate majority leader and the 1908 Democratic vice presidential nominee. He was a progressive ally of President Woodrow Wilson, helping pass significant legislation. Kern was an advocate for union workers and children's rights, shaping his legacy as a defender of the poor. Despite his defeat for re-election in 1916, Kern's impact on American politics and his dedication to progressive values are remembered in history.
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