Exploring Our Surname and Coat of Arms

Image credit: Coat of arms taken from Robert Joseph Curfman's book "The Curfman-Kurfman-Corfman-Korffmann Genealogy" 1971

Korffmann Surname

The surname Korffmann finds its roots in the Latin word "CORBIS," meaning "basket." It signifies a connection to the ancient craft of basket making, one of the oldest trades known to humankind. Alternatively, it might indicate dwelling in a basket-like hut or living within a settlement shaped like a basket.

The surname Korff or von Korff has early origins in Westphalia, as was mentioned in this blog on the earliest Curfmans. In the United States, variations of the name have emerged, including Korffmann, Kurffman, Korbmann, Curfman, Korfman, Kurfman, and Corfman. These variations often resulted from clerical interpretations, with clerks and census workers spelling the name based on how it sounded or looked to them. Over time, spellings in the U.S. have evolved into Curfman and Corfman. (see blog on the first Korffmann to spell his name Curfman and a founder of Cassville.)

The earliest known bearer of the Korffmann form of the surname was Conrad Korffmann of Neuss am Rhein, Westphalia, born around 1498. It is believed that his lineage estends to Johann Philipp Korffmann (1653-1726) of Alzey and Stein-Bockenheim, Germany, the grandfather of emigrants Daniel and Conrad. They carry forward the rich legacy of the Korffmann family.

Coat of Arms

The Korffmann (Curfman) Coat of Arms was granted to Johann Daniel Korffmann (1681-1732) in recognition of his role as Schultheiss (mayor or chief magistrate) of Stein-Bockenheim from 1727-1732. The origins of the coat of arms can be traced to two stone carvings adorning the house that Johann Daniel built, which still stands today. One carving is on the courtyard gate wall facing the street, bearing the date 1727 and the initials DK (Daniel Korffmann). The other is located above the house door.

The coat of arms, officially entered as number 5870, 60 on the German Roll of Arms by the Board of Heralds in Berlin on 10 July 1970, holds historical significance. Such arms were commonly adopted by those in offices requiring private seals. The design features a basket and ostrich feathers, a nod to the family surname. The colors—gold, black, and silver—represent the ostrich plumage.

Direct paternal descendants of Johann Daniel are eligible to obtain a certificate personalized in their name. The coat of arms displayed on the house includes lions and leopards on either side, enriching its symbolism. For a more detailed description, refer to Robert Joseph Curfman’s 1971 book on the family genealogy.

References:

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The Curfman-Kurfman-Corfman-Korffmann Genealogy. Robert Joseph Curfman. Selbstverl., 1971 - 143 pages.

Ruth Curfman research