Schenck Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Schenck come from? What does the surname Schenck mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Schenck and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Schenck Origin: What does the last name Schenck mean?
The surname Schenck is of Jewish and German origin, derived from the word "schenken," meaning to pour out or serve. It was an occupational surname used to describe the medieval profession of cup-bearer, wine server, or tavern keeper. In the Russian empire, only Jews were allowed to sell alcohol, leading to the commonality of the Shenk surname and its variants like Schenck.
YourRoots data indicates that the Schenck surname first appeared in records from Germany in the early 16th century. Over the centuries, the name spread globally, with significant growth seen in the United States during the 17th and 18th centuries. Today, the Schenck surname remains prominent in the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, and other countries around the world, reflecting its enduring legacy and widespread presence.
Schenck Last Name History: Where did the last name Schenck come from?
Origin of Schenck Surname: Where does the last name Schenck originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Schenck first appeared in records from Germany around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Schenck spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Schenck: What does the Schenck surname history look like in the early days?
The Schenck surname started growing significantly in the 17th and 18th centuries, primarily in the United States. YourRoots data also shows Schenck family records in countries like Germany and other European nations, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Schenck surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Schenck surname grew significantly in the United States. The Schenck surname remains prominent in the United States. It appears in many countries, including Germany, Netherlands, and other regions globally.
Explore Schenck last name heritage and Schenck surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Schenck Surame?
Ernst-Günther Schenck
Ernst-Günther Schenck (3 Oct 1904 – 21 Dec 1998) was a German doctor and SS member in Nazi Germany. His memoirs provided valuable insights into Hitler's final days during World War II, featured in works by Joachim Fest and the film Downfall (2004). Schenck's controversial role in medical experiments and nutrition for the SS led to his post-war medical career ban. Despite this, his bravery and medical aid during the Battle of Berlin earned him recognition. After his release from Soviet captivity, Schenck worked at Chemie Grünenthal and contributed to historical accounts of Hitler's health, suggesting Parkinson's disease.
Ferdinand Schureman Schenck
Ferdinand Schureman Schenck (February 11, 1790 – May 16, 1860) was an American physician and politician who served as a U.S. Representative for New Jersey from 1833 to 1837. He also held positions in the New Jersey General Assembly, as a trustee of Rutgers College, and as a judge. Schenck was involved in banking and manufacturing in Newark. He continued practicing medicine until his retirement in 1859. Schenck passed away in 1860 at the age of 70.
Nicholas Schenck
Nicholas M. Schenck (November 14, 1880 – March 4, 1969) was a Russian-American film studio executive and businessman. Born in Russia, he emigrated to the U.S. with his family and rose to prominence in the entertainment industry. Schenck played a crucial role in shaping the success of MGM during the Golden Age of Hollywood, managing a vast theater chain and overseeing the production of numerous iconic films. His business acumen and leadership helped MGM thrive, even during the Great Depression. Schenck's legacy continues to influence the entertainment world to this day.
August Friedrich Schenck
August Friedrich Albrecht Schenck (23 Apr 1828 - 1 Jan 1901) was a renowned painter known for his landscapes and animal paintings. Born in Glückstadt, he trained in France under Léon Cogniet and gained fame for his emotional piece, Anguish. Schenck's works were exhibited internationally, with pieces like "Lost" and "Lamb of God - Agnus dei" now in prestigious museums. He settled in Écouen, France, where he became part of an artist colony. His legacy lives on in the town through streets and artworks dedicated to him. Schenck's contributions to art continue to be celebrated worldwide.
George Schenck
George William Schenck (February 12, 1942 – August 3, 2024) was an American television writer and producer known for his work on popular shows like NCIS. Born into a family with a Hollywood background, Schenck had a successful career spanning decades, collaborating with industry veterans and eventually becoming a showrunner. His contributions to the entertainment industry left a lasting impact, and his legacy continues through the work of his son, Jeffrey, who is an accomplished film producer.
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