Spells History, Family Crest & Coats of Arms

The roots of the German surname Spells lie in the kingdom of Bavaria, where the name originated. Spells is an occupational name, deriving from the Middle High German verb “spillen,” meaning “to play, jest, sport.” Thus, it is likely that the name was originally borne by an actor or a jester.

Early Origins of the Spells family

The surname Spells was first found in the city of Offenburg, in modern Baden-Wuerttemburg, where the name Spielman could be considered to make a great early contribution to the feudal society which became the backbone of early development of Europe. The name Spielmann became prominent in local affairs and branched into many houses which played important roles in the savage tribal and national conflicts, each group seeking power and status in a constantly changing territorial profile.