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Zel Family History

Zel Surname Meaning

Historically, surnames evolved as a way to sort people into groups - by occupation, place of origin, clan affiliation, patronage, parentage, adoption, and even physical characteristics (like red hair). Many of the modern surnames in the dictionary can be traced back to Britain and Ireland.


Similar surnames: Bel, Zeh, Ziel, Zell, Zea, Zelt, Zee, Zhu, Bell, He

Search for a relative to learn more about your family history.

Hint: Try searching for a relative alive in 1940.

Where is the Zel family from?

You can see how Zel families moved over time by selecting different census years. The Zel family name was found in the USA, and Canada between 1911 and 1920. The most Zel families were found in USA in 1920. In 1911 there were 4 Zel families living in Ontario. This was 100% of all the recorded Zel's in Canada. Ontario had the highest population of Zel families in 1911.
Use census records and voter lists to see where families with the Zel surname lived. Within census records, you can often find information like name of household members, ages, birthplaces, residences, and occupations.

What Zel family records will you find?

Census Records

There are 1,000 census records available for the last name Zel. Like a window into their day-to-day life, Zel census records can tell you where and how your ancestors worked, their level of education, veteran status, and more.

Search Canadian census records for Zel

Passenger Lists

There are 236 immigration records available for the last name Zel. Passenger lists are your ticket to knowing when your ancestors arrived in Canada, and how they made the journey - from the ship name to ports of arrival and departure.

View all Zel immigration records

Draft Cards

There are 1,000 military records available for the last name Zel. For the veterans among your Zel ancestors, military collections provide insights into where and when they served, and even physical descriptions.

View all Zel military records

You've only scratched the surface of Zel family history

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What is the average Zel lifespan?

Between 1974 and 2001, in the United States, Zel life expectancy was at its lowest point in 1979, and highest in 1983. The average life expectancy for Zel in 1974 was 84, and 79 in 2001.

An unusually short lifespan might indicate that your Zel ancestors lived in harsh conditions. A short lifespan might also indicate health problems that were once prevalent in your family. The SSDI is a searchable database of more than 70 million names. You can find birthdates, death dates, addresses and more.

Discover the unique achievements of ancestors in the Zel family tree

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