Germans made up one of the largest immigrant groups in the United States, and German surnames are widespread in American records. The best research begins with the place of origin, which is often the key to the records.
Know the spelling world
Umlauts (ä, ö, ü) were often written as ae, oe, ue or dropped, so Müller can appear as Mueller, Muller or Miller. The letter ß is written ss. Spelling of Schmidt as Schmitt, Schmid, Smith and Smidt is common. Search for each version.
Common name types
- Occupations: Müller (miller), Schmidt (smith), Schneider (tailor), Fischer, Weber (weaver), Wagner (wagon maker), Becker (baker).
- Places and landscape: Berger (from Berg, hill), Bachmann (by the stream), Hoffmann (a farm manager, from Hof).
- Given names: Peters, Hartmann, Albrecht.
Germany before 1871
There was no single German state before 1871; records were kept by kingdoms, duchies and church parishes. If a record says "Germany", it may be listing Prussia, Bavaria, Hesse or others. Naturalisation papers, passenger lists and church records often name the town.
Next steps
Once you have a town, look for church books, which are often the best source before civil registration, and for the gazetteer Meyers Orts. Check the FamilySearch Wiki for the state concerned.