Origin and History of GILCHE

Description:

GILCHE is a German surname derived from the name Gilch, which is a diminutive of the personal name Giselher. The name Giselher is composed of the Germanic elements gisil, meaning “pledge” or “hostage” and heri, meaning “army” or “host.” The name was popular in Germany during the Middle Ages and was the name of a 7th-century Duke of Bavaria. The Gilche surname is most commonly found in the northern German states of Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg, and Lower Saxony. It is also found in Austria, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic. The variations of the Gilche surname include Gilch, Gilcher, Gilchen, Gillch, Gillcher, and Gillchen. The culture and customs associated with the Gilche surname are those of northern Germany. Common traditions include celebrating Christmas and Easter, and the exchange of gifts.