Johann Theobaldus Scherer, Sr

• Reference: Ancestry Genealogy - SmartCopy: Mar 4 2018, 3:21:34 UTC
• Reference: Ancestry Genealogy - SmartCopy: Mar 4 2018, 3:23:18 UTC

  ---

  
  

The German surname Scherer is of occupational origin, belonging to that category of names based on the trade or profession once pursued by the original bearer. In this instance, the name can be traced back to the Middle High German word 'scheraere', meaning 'a barber', and the name came to denote one who pursued such a profession. During the early Middle Ages, before the development of the hereditary system of surnames which exists today, it was common practice to identify a man with the job he did and to refer to him in this manner. Since during this period people were very fashion conscious, one's clothes indicated one's status in society, and an appropriate coiffure being as important as the right costume, 'Scherers' were much sought-after and patronished by the nobility. It must be remembered that at this time the barber had another more important function. Before the foundation of medical schools at the close of the Middle Ages (in Montpelier, Padua, Bologna and Paris), the local barber performed whatever dentistry and surgery that was necessary. Consequently he was a respected man in society.