This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Classification: Query Message Board URL: http://boards.ancestry.com/mbexec/msg/an/kNB.2ACI/1579.1 Message Board Post: The origin of the name as I was told all growing up was due to a big alteration being made in the German name when the ansestors traveled over and went through Ellis island. As I understand it, all us Doerzaphs are related not too far up the chain. I believe it was my great grandparents that came over. Anyhow, If you would like to contact me about Doerzaph I would LOVE to hear from you. Unfortunately, my father died this past year so I have lost a wealth of information but I am sure my mother remembers much of his background. Lara (Doerzaph) Thurman