Kistler Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Kistler come from? What does the surname Kistler mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Kistler and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Kistler Origin: What does the last name Kistler mean?
The surname Kistler is of German origin, with records dating back to the 18th century. It is believed to have originated as an occupational name, possibly referring to someone involved in barrel-making or a profession related to wood. Notable individuals with the surname Kistler include German composer Cyrill Kistler and American scientist Steven Kistler. The surname saw significant growth in countries like Germany and the United States during the 18th century, with a historical presence in these regions.
YourRoots data indicates that the surname Kistler first appeared in records from the United States in the early 1700s. By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Kistler surname grew significantly in the United States and also spread to countries like Germany. Today, the Kistler surname remains prominent in the United States and has a global presence in various regions, showcasing its historical significance and continued impact across different cultures.
Kistler Last Name History: Where did the last name Kistler come from?
Origin of Kistler Surname: Where does the last name Kistler originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Kistler first appeared in records from the United States during the 1701.0. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Kistler spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Kistler: What does the Kistler surname history look like in the early days?
The Kistler surname started growing significantly in the 18th century, with notable frequencies in countries like Germany and the United States. YourRoots data indicates a strong historical presence of the Kistler surname in these regions during this period.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Kistler surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Kistler surname grew significantly in the United States. The Kistler surname remains prominent in the United States and has also spread to various other countries, including Germany and other top regions.
Explore Kistler last name heritage and Kistler surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Kistler Surame?
Darci Kistler
Darci Claire Kistler (June 4, 1964 - ) is an American ballerina known for being the last muse of choreographer George Balanchine. Starting ballet at age 4, she joined the New York City Ballet (NYCB) at 16 and became a principal dancer at 17, the youngest ever. Despite facing injuries, including a broken ankle, she performed iconic roles like the Sugarplum Fairy. Kistler penned her autobiography, "Ballerina: My Story," and retired in 2010. Married to NYCB's Peter Martins, she has a daughter. Her legacy in ballet continues to inspire dancers worldwide.
Steven Kistler
Samuel Stephens Kistler (Mar 26, 1900 – Nov 6, 1975) was an American scientist and chemical engineer best known for inventing aerogels, one of the lightest solid materials. Born in California, Kistler studied chemistry and chemical engineering at Stanford University. He made significant contributions to glass strengthening technology and worked for Monsanto Company. Kistler's innovation paved the way for products like Gorilla Glass. Despite his passing in 1975, his legacy lives on in the field of material science.
Walter Kistler
Walter P. Kistler (1918 – November 2, 2015) was a Swiss-born physicist, inventor, and philanthropist known for his pioneering work in quartz instrumentation. He held patents on over 50 inventions and published numerous papers in scientific journals. Kistler founded the Kistler Instrument Company, which became a leader in developing sensors used in Apollo spaceflights. He co-founded the Foundation For the Future, awarding the Kistler Prize for contributions to the study of the human genome and society. Kistler's legacy includes advancements in aerospace instrumentation and sensor development, as well as his efforts in promoting education and future-focused research.
Rives Kistler
Rives Kistler (born 1949) is an American attorney and judge known for his tenure on the Oregon Supreme Court. Graduating with honors from Georgetown University Law Center, he worked in private practice before joining the Oregon Department of Justice. Appointed to the Oregon Court of Appeals in 1999, he later moved to the Oregon Supreme Court in 2003. Kistler has been a trailblazer as one of the few openly LGBTQ state supreme court justices in the United States. He has also taught state constitutional law and served on various legal boards and groups.
Doug Kistler
Douglas C. Kistler (March 21, 1938 – February 29, 1980) was an American basketball player known for his time at Duke University and brief stint in the NBA. Standing at 6'9" and weighing 210 lbs, Kistler was a talented power forward who earned the ACC men's basketball tournament Most Valuable Player Award in 1960. He was drafted by the Detroit Pistons in 1961 and played five games for the New York Knicks during the 1961–62 NBA season, averaging 1.6 points per game. Tragically, Kistler passed away in a car accident in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1980.
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