The Dutch surname of BAAS was a nickname for a short fat man, originally rendered in the Latin from BASSUS meaning 'thickset' meaning wide as opposed to tall. The name is also spelt BAARS. In the later Middle Ages the word was also used metaphorically to mean 'of humble origin' but apparently without contemptuous overtones. The Dutch language is most closely related to Low German, and its surnames have been influenced both by German and French naming practices. The preposition 'van' is found especially with habitation names, and the 'de' mainly with nicknames. Notable members of the name include William Henry BAAR, who was born on the 30th December 1919. He was a clergyman, and the Appointments he held include Exective Secretary for University work in 1955. The Director of the Anglican Theological Fellowship at the University of Chicago, 1958. He resided at Glencoe, Illinois. Conrad Walter BAARS who was born in the Netherlands in 1919, held the post of Psychiatrist at Anoka State Hospital from 1950-1951. He resided at Rochester, Minnesota, United States of America. The associated coat of arms is recorded in Rietstaps Armorial General. Surnames as we know them today were first assumed in Europe from the 11th to the 15th Century. The employment in the use of a second name was a custom that was first introduced from the Normans. They themselves had not long before adopted them. It became, in course of time, a mark of gentler blood, and it was deemed a disgrace for gentlemen to have but one single name, as the meaner sort had. At first the coat of arms was a practical matter which served a function on the battlefield and in tournaments. With his helmet covering his face, and armour encasing the knight from head to foot, the only means of identification for his followers, was the insignia painted on his shield and embroidered on his surcoat, the flowing and draped garment worn over the armour. Arms registered in Bavaria. |
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