Dr. Kirstin Casemir (1968–2026)

Mit großer Trauer nimmt die onomastische Fachwelt Abschied von Dr. Kirstin Casemir, die am 4. Mai 2026 nach schwerer Krankheit im Alter von nur 57 Jahren verstorben ist. Ihr Tod bedeutet einen schweren Verlust für die Namenforschung, die historische Sprachwissenschaft, die Lexikographie und für alle, die mit ihr wissenschaftlich und persönlich verbunden waren.

Dr. Kirstin Casemir war der Niedersächsischen Akademie der Wissenschaften zu Göttingen seit 1989 verbunden. Zunächst war sie als Hilfskraft, später als wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin am Projekt „Deutsches Wörterbuch von Jacob Grimm und Wilhelm Grimm“ tätig. Diese langjährige lexikographische Arbeit verband sich bei ihr mit einem tiefen Interesse an der Ortsnamenforschung, das bereits während ihres Studiums der historisch-vergleichenden und allgemeinen Sprachwissenschaft sowie der Germanistik an der Georg-August-Universität Göttingen geweckt wurde.

Ihre Promotion widmete sie den Ortsnamen ihrer Heimatregion: 2002 wurde sie mit einer Arbeit über die Ortsnamen im Landkreis Wolfenbüttel promoviert. Die Studie erschien 2003 unter dem Titel „Die Ortsnamen des Landkreises Wolfenbüttel und der Stadt Salzgitter“ als dritter Band des Niedersächsischen Ortsnamenbuchs.

Seit 2007 leitete Kirstin Casemir die Forschungsstelle „Ortsnamen zwischen Rhein und Elbe – Onomastik im europäischen Raum“. In dieser Funktion prägte sie das Akademieprojekt maßgeblich. Als Arbeitsstellenleiterin und Mitherausgeberin der Reihen Westfälisches Ortsnamenbuch und Niedersächsisches Ortsnamenbuch trug sie entscheidend zur breiten überregionalen Anerkennung des Projekts bei. Ihr wissenschaftliches Werk umfasst zahlreiche Beiträge zur Toponomastik, insbesondere zur niederdeutschen Ortsnamenforschung, aber auch zur Lexikographie, historischen Kartographie und historischen Sprachwissenschaft.

Neben ihrer Forschung engagierte sich Dr. Kirstin Casemir in mehreren wissenschaftlichen Gesellschaften und Kommissionen. Sie war unter anderem Mitglied der Gesellschaft für Namenkunde, der Historischen Kommission für Niedersachsen und Bremen, des Vereins für niederdeutsche Sprachforschung sowie der Kommission für Mundart- und Namenforschung Westfalens. Zeitweise war sie auch Mitherausgeberin der Zeitschrift Beiträge zur Namenforschung. Für ihre herausragenden Leistungen wurde sie 2019 mit dem Henning-Kaufmann-Preis ausgezeichnet.

Ein weiterer wichtiger Teil ihres Wirkens war die akademische Lehre. Seit 2002 war sie Lehrbeauftragte an der Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, seit 2007 auch an der Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster. Viele Studierende lernten durch sie die Namenforschung kennen; einige von ihnen konnte sie für eine wissenschaftliche Laufbahn in diesem Fach gewinnen.

Diejenigen, die Kirstin Casemir kannten, erinnern sich nicht nur an ihre große fachliche Kompetenz, sondern auch an ihre Herzlichkeit, ihre Offenheit und ihr ehrliches Interesse an Menschen. Ihr freundliches Wesen und ihr außerordentliches Engagement bleiben unvergessen.

Die Forschungsstelle „Ortsnamen zwischen Rhein und Elbe“ wird ihre Arbeit in ihrem Sinne fortsetzen. Der Tod von Dr. Kirstin Casemir ist ein großer Verlust für die internationale Onomastik. Ihr wissenschaftliches Werk und ihr menschliches Vorbild werden weiterwirken.

Wir bewahren ihr ein dankbares und ehrendes Andenken.

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English

In memoriam Dr. Kirstin Casemir

6 May 1968 – 4 May 2026

The onomastic community mourns the passing of Dr. Kirstin Casemir, who died on 4 May 2026 after a serious illness, at the age of only 57. Her untimely death is a profound loss to name studies, historical linguistics, lexicography, and to all those who knew her as a colleague, teacher, and friend.

Dr. Casemir had been closely associated with the Göttingen Academy of Sciences and Humanities since 1989. She first worked as a student assistant and later as a research associate in the project “Deutsches Wörterbuch von Jacob Grimm und Wilhelm Grimm”, the revised edition of the German Dictionary of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. Her lexicographical work was accompanied by a lasting interest in place-name research, which had been awakened during her studies in historical-comparative and general linguistics as well as German studies at the University of Göttingen.

Her doctoral dissertation was devoted to the place names of her home region. In 2002 she received her doctorate from the University of Göttingen with a study on the place names of the district of Wolfenbüttel. The work was published in 2003 as “Die Ortsnamen des Landkreises Wolfenbüttel und der Stadt Salzgitter”, the third volume of the Niedersächsisches Ortsnamenbuch.

From 2007 until her death, Kirstin Casemir headed the research unit “Ortsnamen zwischen Rhein und Elbe – Onomastik im europäischen Raum”. In this role she played a decisive part in shaping the Academy project. As head of the research unit and co-editor of the series Westfälisches Ortsnamenbuch and Niedersächsisches Ortsnamenbuch, she contributed significantly to the project’s broad recognition beyond the region. Her scholarly work includes numerous publications in toponomastics, especially in the field of Low German place-name studies, as well as in lexicography, historical cartography, and historical linguistics.

Dr. Casemir was also active in several scholarly societies and commissions, including the Gesellschaft für Namenkunde, the Historische Kommission für Niedersachsen und Bremen, the Verein für niederdeutsche Sprachforschung, and the Kommission für Mundart- und Namenforschung Westfalens. She also served for a time as co-editor of the journal Beiträge zur Namenforschung. In 2019, she was awarded the Henning Kaufmann Prize in recognition of her outstanding contributions to name research.

Teaching was another important part of her academic life. Since 2002 she had taught at the University of Göttingen, and since 2007 also at the University of Münster. Through her teaching, many students discovered the field of onomastics; some of them were encouraged by her to pursue scholarly work in name studies themselves.

Those who knew Kirstin Casemir will remember not only her profound expertise, but also her warmth, openness, and sincere interest in people. Her kindness and extraordinary commitment will remain deeply cherished.

The research unit “Ortsnamen zwischen Rhein und Elbe” will continue its work in her spirit. Dr. Kirstin Casemir’s passing is a great loss to international onomastics. Her scholarly legacy and her personal example will endure.

We remember her with gratitude and deep respect.

The Untold Story of the 1938 Onomastics Congress

My new article in Onoma Vol. 60 (2025) reveals the answers to the intriguing questions and explores how a congress held in the shadow of World War II created lasting impacts that resonate 87 years later.

"The 1938 Onomastics Revolution: Why the Name Researchers Needed a Congress and Its 8 Lasting Impacts"

Paris, July 1938. As Europe teetered on the brink of war, 148 scholars from 21 countries gathered for the First International Congress of Toponymy and Anthroponymy. But according to one of its organizers, the atmosphere was "charged" with something far more sinister than scholarly debate.

The congress passed eight revolutionary resolutions that would shape the field of onomastics for decades. A second congress was immediately planned. But what was happening beneath the surface of scholarly collaboration? And why did that second congress never take place?

Read the Full Story to Answer the Questions That Haunt Onomastic History:

Why and where did they decide to organize the 1st Congress?

Who might have been the first President of the Congress? Hint: before Albert Dauzat.

Who exactly were these suspected spies among the onomasticians?

Why was a second congress planned for Munich in August 1941 and which influential German name researchers were supposed to host it?

What happened when the congress tried to reconvene three years later?

What did they eat and drink at the closing banquet?

Discover the complete story of scholarship and suspicion, of visionary academics working under the threat of catastrophe, and of how the study of names became intertwined with questions of cultural survival - and espionage.

Because sometimes, the most interesting stories in academic history are the ones that haven't been fully told.

Onoma Vol. 60 (2025), pp. 309–322

In Memoriam: Jean-Pierre Chambon (1952-2025)

Le monde des études onomastiques a perdu l'un de ses plus brillants chercheurs. Jean-Pierre Chambon nous a quittés le 16 décembre 2025 à son domicile de Recologne, laissant derrière lui un héritage qui a fondamentalement façonné notre compréhension des noms de lieux et des noms de personnes à travers le paysage linguistique roman.

Pour ceux d'entre nous qui travaillent en onomastique, Chambon était plus qu'un collègue distingué - c'était un pionnier qui a démontré comment l'étude rigoureuse de la toponymie et de l'anthroponymie pouvait illuminer les histoires cachées dans les noms qui nous entourent. Son approche de la recherche onomastique se caractérisait par une combinaison exceptionnelle de sophistication théorique, de documentation exhaustive et de rigueur scientifique exemplaire.

Un maître de la recherche toponymique

La contribution de Chambon à la toponymie était extraordinaire. Son travail sur les noms de lieux allait bien au-delà de la simple étymologie ; il a montré comment l'étude minutieuse des toponymes pouvait situer les textes dans l'espace et le temps, révéler des schémas de peuplement et de migration, et découvrir des strates linguistiques longtemps oubliées. Ses articles annuels sur la toponymie pour la Société d'Histoire et d'Archéologie de l'arrondissement de Lure (Haute-Saône) sont devenus des lectures essentielles pour quiconque s'intéresse aux noms de lieux de l'est de la France.

L'aboutissement de ses recherches toponymiques est apparu dans le volume substantiel Recherches sur la toponymie de l'arrondissement de Lure (Haute-Saône) : linguistique historique, dialectologie, traces d'histoire (2023). Cette œuvre exemplifie la conviction de Chambon qu'il n'y a « pas d'étymologie sans histoire, pas d'histoire sans documents » - un principe qui a guidé toutes ses investigations onomastiques.

Faire progresser l'anthroponymie

Dans le domaine de l'anthroponymie, l'influence de Chambon s'est étendue à travers le monde roman grâce à son rôle central dans le projet PatRom (Dictionnaire étymologique des noms de personnes romans). Ce dictionnaire ambitieux des noms de personnes romans porte son empreinte méthodologique, combinant l'analyse linguistique avec la documentation historique pour retracer les origines et l'évolution des noms de famille à travers plusieurs langues et siècles.

Son travail a démontré que les noms de personnes ne sont pas de simples étiquettes mais des artefacts linguistiques complexes qui préservent les traces des structures sociales médiévales, des schémas professionnels et des identités régionales. À travers ses recherches, Chambon a montré comment l'étude anthroponymique pouvait contribuer à notre compréhension des mouvements de population, des histoires familiales et du tissu social des communautés passées.

Une vision collaborative

Ce qui distinguait l'approche de Chambon en onomastique était son engagement profond envers le travail collaboratif. Il comprenait que l'étude des noms - qu'il s'agisse de lieux ou de personnes - bénéficie énormément de ce qu'il appelait « l'émulation non-concurrentielle » : le partage des données, la confrontation des solutions et la mise en commun de l'expertise à travers les disciplines. Ses collaborations avec Jean Hennequin, Louis Jeandel, Alain Guillaume et Daniel Curtit sur la recherche toponymique ont démontré comment les études onomastiques pouvaient faire le pont entre la linguistique, l'histoire et le patrimoine local.

À partir de 2000, Chambon est devenu un fidèle et régulier collaborateur de la Nouvelle Revue d'Onomastique, principal organe de diffusion de la Société française d'onomastique. Ses articles ont enrichi la revue d'aperçus tirés de la philologie romane, de la linguistique historique et de la dialectologie - montrant comment l'onomastique se situe à l'intersection de multiples traditions savantes.

Reconnaissance et héritage

La communauté onomastique a honoré les contributions de Chambon de diverses manières tout au long de sa carrière. En 2023, la Société française d'onomastique lui a décerné le prix Albert-Dauzat lors d'une conférence magistrale aux Archives nationales à Paris. Cette reconnaissance soulignait non seulement ses réalisations scientifiques mais aussi son rôle dans la formation de centaines d'étudiants à la linguistique historique, à la dialectologie et à l'onomastique aux universités de Strasbourg, Montpellier et Paris-Sorbonne.

Son enseignement a montré à des générations d'étudiants que l'onomastique n'est pas une poursuite marginale mais une discipline centrale pour comprendre comment les langues évoluent, comment les sociétés s'organisent et comment les communautés humaines marquent leur présence sur le paysage. Qu'il travaille avec des chartes médiévales, des textes occitans ou des matériaux dialectaux modernes, Chambon a démontré que les noms - tant les noms de personnes que les noms de lieux - sont des sources inestimables pour la recherche linguistique et historique.

Un modèle durable

Alors que nous réfléchissons au décès de Chambon, ceux d'entre nous dans les sciences onomastiques reconnaissent que son travail continuera à nous guider et à nous inspirer. Son insistance sur la rigueur méthodologique, sa documentation exhaustive et sa capacité à voir les connexions entre des éléments de preuve apparemment disparates ont établi une norme que peu peuvent égaler mais que tous devraient aspirer à atteindre.

Max Pfister, fondateur du Lessico etimologico italiano, a classé Jean-Pierre Chambon parmi « les plus grands romanistes de notre temps ». Pour nous, onomasticiens, nous pourrions ajouter : il fut parmi les plus grands chercheurs de noms que notre domaine ait connus. Ses plus de 500 contributions majeures représentent non seulement un corpus de travail mais une méthodologie - une façon d'aborder les noms avec le respect et l'attention qu'ils méritent en tant que porteurs de mémoire linguistique, historique et culturelle.

Jean-Pierre Chambon comprenait que chaque nom a une histoire, et que découvrir ces histoires nécessite patience, érudition et humilité intellectuelle. Il a incarné ces vertus tout au long de sa carrière. Son absence sera profondément ressentie, mais son exemple - et ses contributions inestimables à la toponymie et à l'anthroponymie - continueront à façonner la recherche onomastique pour les générations à venir.

In Memoriam: Professor Nina Parfyonova (1936-2025)

 (English Version)

The world of philology and onomastics has lost one of its bright lights. It is with profound sadness that we mark the passing of Professor Nina Parfyonova, Doctor of Philological Sciences.

While the specific details of her research are not widely published in English, her work undoubtedly advanced our understanding of language, particularly within the rich and complex tapestry of Russian philology. As a professor, she would have shaped the minds of countless students, passing on not just knowledge, but a methodology and a respect for the nuances of language. She was part of a vital academic lineage, preserving and expanding a field that is fundamental to understanding culture and history.

For the onomastic community, the loss of such a scholar is deeply felt. The study of names sits at the crossroads of language, history, and sociology - the very heart of philology. Colleagues like Professor Parfyonova form the backbone of this interdisciplinary endeavor.

Her legacy is not merely in the publications she left behind, but in the intellectual curiosity she ignited in others. It lives on in the work of her students and in the continued respect for the deep, structural beauty of language that she devoted her life to studying.

We extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, colleagues, and students at this difficult time.

Памяти профессора Нины Никифоровны Парфёновой 

(Russian Version)

Мир филологии и ономастики померк с уходом одного из своих светил. С глубокой скорбью мы узнали о кончине профессора, доктора филологических наук Нины Никифоровны Парфёновой.

Как сообщает «Сиапресс», прозвучала горькая новость: «Ушла из жизни». Для её коллег, учеников и всех, кто был знаком с её трудами, эта уход – невосполнимая потеря.

Хотя детали её исследований, возможно, не столь широко известны за рубежом, звания «доктора филологических наук» и «профессора» красноречиво говорят сами за себя. В российской академической традиции эти звания достигаются лишь ценой всей жизни, посвящённой служению науке, тщательным изысканиям и глубокому вкладу в свою область. Филология, любовь к слову и литературе, нашла в лице профессора Парфёновой страстную последовательницу.

Для ономастического сообщества потеря такого учёного ощущается особенно остро. Изучение имён находится на стыке языка, истории и социологии – в самой сердцевине филологии. Такие коллеги, как профессор Парфёнова, составляют костяк этой междисциплинарной науки.

Её наследие – не только в оставленных ею публикациях, но и в интеллектуальном curiosity, которую она зажигала в других. Оно продолжает жить в трудах её учеников и в неизменном уважении к глубокой, структурной красоте языка, изучению которого она посвятила свою жизнь.

Мы выражаем наши глубочайшие соболезнования её семье, друзьям, коллегам и ученикам в это трудное время.

Источник: Siapress.ru

The Power of Names: DFD’s Rita Heuser Wins Germany’s Top Onomastics Award

 Warm congratulations to Dr. Rita Heuser, head of the Academy project “Das Digitale Familiennamenwörterbuch Deutschlands (DFD) – The Digital Dictionary of German Surnames,” on receiving the Annual Prize of the Henning-Kaufmann Foundation for the Promotion of German Name Research on a Historical-Linguistic Basis. The award ceremony, including a festal lecture, took place on 29 September 2025 at the Academy of Sciences and Literature | Mainz.

Endowed with €3,000, the Henning-Kaufmann Prize honors outstanding scholarship in name studies. Dr. Heuser’s leadership at the DFD has set a high bar for the field: rigorous etymologies, transparent evidence, precise distribution maps, and editorial standards that make onomastic research usable for scholars, teachers, journalists, and the wider public. The project shows how historical sources, modern corpora, and digital methods can work together to reveal the cultural, regional, and diachronic layers of surnames.

The presentation of the prize formed part of the 10th Mainz Name Conference, “Migration Onomastics: Personal Names in the Context of Migration Movements” (29–30 September). The meeting explored how names reflect language biographies and migration processes - from transliteration and grammatical adaptation to situational-pragmatic variation and shifts among given, family, and full names - building on perspectives from the 2023 international workshop “Personal Names in Migration” (University of Münster). Dr. Heuser’s work provides exactly the data infrastructure and analytical tools needed for this agenda.

This recognition is also a signal to the broader humanities: onomastics matters. When pursued in an open, verifiable, and connected way - as in the DFD - it illuminates language history, social change, and identity, and it does so in forms that other disciplines and the public can readily use.

Congratulations, Dr. Heuser!

Onomastik im Mittelpunkt: Henning-Kaufmann-Preis 2025 für Dr. Rita Heuser

Mit großer Freude gratulieren wir Dr. Rita Heuser, Arbeitsstellenleiterin des Akademieprojekts „Das Digitale Familiennamenwörterbuch Deutschlands (DFD)“, zur Auszeichnung mit dem Jahrespreis der Henning-Kaufmann-Stiftung für herausragende Verdienste in der Namenforschung. Die feierliche Verleihung mit Festvortrag fand am 29. September 2025 in der Akademie der Wissenschaften und der Literatur | Mainz statt.

Der Henning-Kaufmann-Preis ist mit 3.000 € dotiert und würdigt wissenschaftliche Exzellenz in der deutschen Namenforschung auf sprachgeschichtlicher Grundlage. Die Entscheidung für Dr. Heuser ehrt eine Forscherin, die die Onomastik sichtbar macht - fachlich präzise, methodisch innovativ, digital zugänglich. Unter ihrer Leitung hat das DFD neue Maßstäbe gesetzt: transparente Etymologien, belastbare Belegorte, klare Verbreitungskarten und sorgfältige editorische Standards, die Wissenschaft, Unterricht, Medien und interessierte Öffentlichkeit gleichermaßen erreichen.

Besonders schließt die Auszeichnung an das Thema der 10. Mainzer Namentagung „Migrationsonomastik: Personennamen im Kontext von Wanderungsbewegungen“ (29.–30. September) an. Hier steht im Fokus, wie Personennamen Wanderungsprozesse, Sprachbiografien und Anpassungen spiegeln - von Transliteration und grammatischen Integrationen bis zu situativ-pragmatischer Variation und dem Wechsel von Ruf-, Familien- und Gesamtnamen. Dr. Heusers Arbeit liefert dafür die fundierten Daten und analytischen Werkzeuge: Sie zeigt, wie historische Quellen, moderne Korpora und digitale Editionspraxis zusammenkommen, um Namen in ihren kulturellen, regionalen und historischen Schichten zu verstehen.

Die Ehrung durch die Henning-Kaufmann-Stiftung ist damit auch ein Signal an die Fachcommunity: Onomastik ist zentrale Sprach- und Kulturwissenschaft - und dort, wo sie wie im DFD offen, überprüfbar und vernetzt betrieben wird, gewinnt sie Reichweite weit über den engeren Kreis der Namensforschung hinaus. Herzlichen Glückwunsch, Dr. Heuser!

In Memoriam: Walter Wenzel (1929-2025)

🇩🇪 Nachruf auf Prof. Dr. Walter Wenzel (1929–2025)

Ein Wegbereiter der slawischen Onomastik

Mit tiefer Betroffenheit gedenken wir Prof. Dr. Walter Wenzel, geboren am 20. Januar 1929 in Hermsdorf (damals Tschechoslowakei), der im Jahr 2025 verstorben ist. Als emeritierter Professor an der Universität Leipzig prägte er die Erforschung sorbischer und westslawischer Namenforschung nachhaltig.

🎓 Wissenschaftliche Laufbahn & Forschungsschwerpunkte

• Promotion 1960, Habilitation 1979, Ernennung zum Professor 1990

• Spezialisierung auf sorbische Orts- und Personennamen aus der Lausitz

• Bedeutende Veröffentlichungen:

  • Die Ortsnamen des Schweinitzer Landes (1964)

  • Sorbische Anthroponymie (1987–1994)

  • Ortsnamenbuch für Niedersorbien und Obersorbien (2006, 2008)

  • Slawen in Deutschland. Ihre Namen als Zeugen der Geschichte (2015)

  • Die slawische Frühgeschichte Sachsens im Licht der Namen (2017–2021)

🏛️ Vermächtnis

Prof. Wenzel verband philologische Tiefe mit kulturhistorischem Weitblick. Seine Arbeiten sind und bleiben wesentliche Bezugspunkte für Onomastiker und Slawisten weltweit. Unser aufrichtiges Beileid gilt seiner Familie und allen, die ihm nahestanden.

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🇬🇧 Obituary: Professor Walter Wenzel (1929–2025)

A Pillar of Slavic Onomastics

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Professor Walter Wenzel, born 20 January 1929 in Hermsdorf (then Czechoslovakia), who passed away in 2025. As Emeritus Professor at the University of Leipzig, he made foundational contributions to the study of Slavic names, especially in Sorbian onomastics.

🎓 Academic Journey & Key Works

• PhD in 1960, habilitation in 1979, appointed full professor in 1990

• Specialized in Sorbian place names and anthroponyms in the Lusatia region

• Major publications:

  • Die Ortsnamen des Schweinitzer Landes (1964)

  • Sorbische Anthroponymie (1987–1994)

  • Ortsnamenbuch for Lower and Upper Lusatia (2006, 2008)

  • Slawen in Deutschland. Ihre Namen als Zeugen der Geschichte (2015)

  • Die slawische Frühgeschichte Sachsens im Licht der Namen (2017–2021)

📚 Legacy

His scholarly rigor and cultural insight transformed onomastics and Slavic linguistics. His publications continue to be essential references. We extend heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.

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🅿️ Pśenosk na profesora Waltera Wenzela (1929–2025)

Zakładny čłowjek słowjanskeje onomastyki

Z wobrošću buduše se přiznawać, zo profesor Walter Wenzel, naróžo 20. janaurja 1929 w Hermsdořfje, dźiś howny 2025 pokónany je. Jako emerynowany profesor Univerzity Lipska je klučowoškin přispěch k wučbě serbskej a zapadnosłowjanskeje onomastyki.

🎓 Akademiska dróha a dźěło

• Doktorske studium 1960, habilitacija 1979, profesor 1990

• Specializacija na serbskie mjenskie a osobowe měna ze Łužicy

• Wóne doprowadenych dźěł:

  • Die Ortsnamen des Schweinitzer Landes (1964)

  • Sorbische Anthroponymie (1987–1994)

  • Ortsnamenbuch za Dolnoserbske a Hornjoserbske Łužicu (2006, 2008)

  • Slawen in Deutschland. Ihre Namen als Zeugen der Geschichte (2015)

  • Die slawische Frühgeschichte Sachsens im Licht der Namen (2017–2021)

🏛️ Dźědowanje

Profesor Wenzel je zwjercharske přistupy a kulturowu perspektiwom předłožił. Jeho dźěła kóntynjeju wutomne źónki za wučarjowy wót tym estuche. Wužiwamy nasze najhlubše sołdnjenje wob familiju a wšyknych, kotřiž hižo mu bliski byli.

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🇷🇺 Некролог: Профессор Вальтер Вензель (1929–2025)

С глубокой скорбью сообщаем о кончине профессора Вальтера Вензеля, родившегося 20 января 1929 в Гернсдорфе (тогда Чехословакия), ушёл из жизни в 2025 году. В качестве почётного профессора Лейпцигского университета он внёс лёжний вклад в исследование славянских имён, особенно серболужицких.

🎓 Образование и ключевые труды

• Докторская диссертация в 1960 г., хабилитация в 1979 г., профессорский титул в 1990 г.

• Специализация: топонимы и антропонимы серболужицкого региона

• Основные публикации:

  • Die Ortsnamen des Schweinitzer Landes (1964)

  • Sorbische Anthroponymie (1987–1994)

  • Ortsnamenbuch для Нижней и Верхней Лужицы (2006, 2008)

  • Slawen in Deutschland. Ihre Namen als Zeugen der Geschichte (2015)

  • Die slawische Frühgeschichte Sachsens im Licht der Namen (2017–2021)

🕯 Наследие

Профессор Вензель стал одним из краеугольных специалистов в ономастике, и его подходы продолжают вдохновлять учёных. Мы выражаем глубочайшие соболезнования его близким и соратникам.

IN MEMORIAM: Dr. Marcin Kojder (1975-2025)

 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. habil. Marcin Kojder, an esteemed associate professor in the Department of Slavic Linguistics at Maria Curie-Skłodowska University (UMCS) in Lublin. Dr. Kojder, a distinguished Ukrainian studies scholar and onomastician, departed on February 1, 2025.

In December 2024, Dr. Kojder published his latest monograph in the field of onomastics, a discipline to which he dedicated his entire academic career. We celebrated this achievement, believing it brought him closer to attaining a full professorship. Today, we hold this book, adorned with his witty dedication, and realize that many friends never received their copies - time was too short.

As a linguist, Dr. Kojder possessed a passion that led him to seek scholarly inspiration both in meticulous archival work and in the aspects of life he simply enjoyed. His body of work includes studies in historical anthroponymy, as well as writings on the language of sports and marketing chrematonyms.

Among Ukrainian studies students, he was respected not only as a lecturer but also as a person: open, kind, and always advocating for his students. In recognition of his dedication, he was awarded the Homo Didacticus diploma, an honor given to educators who receive the highest ratings in student surveys.

For years, we shared an office on the fourth floor of the New Humanities building. We always tried to schedule our classes to meet at least once a week, to enjoy a coffee together, chat, and share a laugh. It's a rare gift to look forward to going to work, knowing you're collaborating with people whose company you cherish. Thanks to Marcin, we had that joy.

He was a devoted husband and father; his stories were filled with family memories and anecdotes from bike trips, skiing, and camping adventures. Marcin was passionate about sports and pursued these interests in various ways with his sons: taking his elder son, Jaś, to the gym, and diligently driving his younger son, 11-year-old Piotruś - a promising hockey goalie and footballer - to practices, tournaments, and camps, proudly sharing the young athlete's successes with us. To Agata, Jaś, and Piotruś, we lack the words to express our condolences and support during these challenging times.

We admired Marcin as a talented and esteemed percussionist. The last time we had the pleasure of hearing him was on December 6, 2024, when he performed a beautiful concert titled "Tribute to Santana" with the Carlos Band. Less than two months ago, as we applauded him on stage, none of us anticipated that the tribute paid by the musicians to Carlos Santana would also become our musical farewell to Marcin.

He disliked grand words and pathos, navigating life with humor, aptly summarizing reality. This humor was the glue of our gatherings with friends from the former Institute of Slavic Philology, with whom we met socially outside of work. From these meetings, we have photos and videos where Marcin is always at the center: cheerful, laughing, full of energy.

One more fact illustrates the kind of person Marcin was. Several years ago, he underwent the procedure to become a bone marrow donor. The recipient was anonymous, with no familial or emotional ties to the donor. The man who, thanks to the transplant, could be reborn, was at the time of the procedure the same age Marcin was when he passed away.

We will remember him as he was until the end: smiling, full of optimism, kind, and witty. When we met a week before his surgery, he was convinced that the upcoming hospital stay was just a stage in his battle with illness. We saw that he had the strength for this fight, and we drew such an attitude from him, believing that he would overcome the disease.

Marcin, we will miss you dearly.

In Memoriam: Professor Władysław Miodunka (1945–2024)

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On April 30, 2024, the academic world bid farewell to Professor Władysław Miodunka, a luminary in the fields of linguistics, Polish philology, and onomastics. His passing marks the end of a remarkable journey dedicated to the study, teaching, and promotion of the Polish language and culture worldwide.

Early Life and Academic Beginnings

Born on January 1, 1945, in Wojsław, near Mielec, Poland, Professor Miodunka spent his formative years in Podleszany. After excelling at the prestigious Stanisław Konarski High School in Mielec, he pursued Polish philology at Jagiellonian University, Kraków. His early academic interests leaned toward dialectology, with his master's thesis examining the syntax of the local dialect in his home village.

Contributions to Onomastics

Professor Miodunka began his academic journey with a strong focus on onomastics. One of his early groundbreaking works analyzed over a thousand Polish tavern names, offering structural and semantic classifications that are still referenced today. His meticulous approach to studying historical and cultural naming conventions laid a foundation for future research in chrematonomastics—the study of commercial and functional names.

Academic Career and Pedagogical Innovation

Over the decades, Professor Miodunka made invaluable contributions to Polish linguistics, particularly in syntax, semantics, and lexicology. His tenure at Jagiellonian University saw him mentor generations of students, instilling in them a passion for linguistics and cultural preservation.

A pivotal chapter in his career unfolded during his years in Toulouse, France (1973–1977). There, he embraced applied linguistics and innovative teaching methods, which he later brought to Poland, transforming the pedagogy of Polish as a foreign language. His work in this area culminated in the establishment of certification programs for Polish language proficiency, a milestone in Polish glottodidactics.

A Global Ambassador of Polish Culture

Professor Miodunka’s influence extended far beyond Poland. As a visiting professor in countries such as the United States, Brazil, and Australia, he tirelessly promoted Polish language and culture. His textbooks and monographs, such as “Let’s Learn Polish” and “The Language Pedagogy of Polish Studies”, remain indispensable resources for teaching Polish as a foreign language.

Leadership and Recognition

Throughout his career, Professor Miodunka held numerous prestigious positions, including director of the Polish Language and Culture Center at Jagiellonian University and chairman of the State Commission for the Certification of Proficiency in Polish. His administrative roles underscored his commitment to advancing Polish studies both academically and institutionally.

Legacy

Professor Władysław Miodunka’s life epitomized dedication to the Polish language and its global recognition. His research in onomastics, particularly in the cultural and historical dimensions of names, continues to inspire scholars worldwide. Beyond his academic achievements, he will be remembered as a compassionate mentor, an innovative educator, and a passionate advocate for Polish heritage.

As we reflect on his profound impact, the onomastic community celebrates his life and work, ensuring that his legacy endures in the study and appreciation of names and languages.

In Memoriam: Gracijela Čulić (1936–2024)

The world of onomastics and linguistic scholarship bids farewell to Gracijela Čulić, a towering figure in historical anthroponymy and toponymy, who passed away on May 10, 2024, in her beloved hometown of Kotor, Montenegro, at the age of 87.

Born in Kotor on December 16, 1936, Čulić’s academic journey began with her studies in French and Italian at the University of Zagreb, where she graduated in 1960. Her career as a teacher and researcher spanned decades, during which she left an indelible mark on the study of Boka Kotorska's anthroponymy and toponymy. Her work was characterized by exceptional scholarly rigor and a deep commitment to preserving the cultural and historical heritage of her region.

A Legacy in Onomastics and Toponymy

Čulić's magnum opus, Antroponimija Boke Kotorske od prvih pisanih spomenika do kraja XIX vijeka, remains a cornerstone of Croatian onomastics. Written amidst the tumult of war, this seminal work highlights her unyielding dedication to academic integrity and her ability to intertwine linguistic, cultural, and historical analysis. It stands as a testament to the complex interplay between Croatian, Montenegrin, and Serbian anthroponymic traditions, as well as the integration of Romance cultural influences in Boka Kotorska.

Her studies extended beyond the region, encompassing onomastic confirmations of South Slavic presence in southern Italy. Her meticulous research covered diverse topics, from the names of foundlings and ships in Boka Kotorska to the educational frameworks of historical Kotor schools.

Educator, Polyglot, and Cultural Advocate

Čulić was not only a prolific scholar but also an inspiring educator. From her early days teaching French, Italian, and Latin at Kotor’s schools to her academic roles at the University of Nikšić and the Faculty of Tourism and Hotel Management in Kotor, she shaped generations of students. She was instrumental in establishing Italian studies in Montenegro and contributed to linguistic pedagogy with works like Koncepcija nastavnih programa iz italijanskog jezika u starim kotorskim srednjim školama.

Her linguistic talents extended to translation and literary criticism, and she authored works in Croatian, Montenegrin, French, and Italian. Her commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and preserving local heritage earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious "21st November Award" from the City of Kotor.

Community Leadership and Cultural Preservation

Beyond academia, Čulić was a vital member of the Croatian community in Montenegro. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Croatian Cultural Society in Boka Kotorska and generously supported the Croatian Library "Ljudevit Gaj" in Donja Lastva. Her advocacy for cultural and linguistic preservation continues to inspire efforts to protect the region’s rich heritage.

Remembering a Scholar and Friend

Those fortunate to know Čulić personally recall her wit, warmth, and boundless enthusiasm for life. As a mentor, she was generous with her knowledge; as a storyteller, she brought history to life; and as a friend, she brightened every encounter with her humor and insight.

Gracijela Čulić's contributions to onomastics and to the cultural legacy of Boka Kotorska will resonate for generations to come. Her scholarship and spirit remain a guiding light in the study of names and the stories they tell.

May she rest in peace, her legacy forever cherished.

In Memoriam: Carme Barceló (1949–2024)

 The academic world and name researchers mourn the loss of Carme Barceló, a distinguished scholar and honorary professor at the University of Valencia, who passed away at the age of 75. Barceló's profound contributions to the study of toponymy and the onomastics of Andalusi Muslims have left an indelible mark on linguistic and historical scholarship.

Born in Cartagena in 1949, Carme Barceló devoted nearly her entire academic career to the University of Valencia, where she became the first elected dean of her faculty - a testament to her trailblazing spirit and dedication. As a professor of Arabic and Islamic Studies, she was widely regarded for her meticulous research on the language, epigraphy, and onomastic traditions of Andalusi Muslims, particularly within the Valencian region. Her pioneering work bridged the disciplines of linguistics, history, and cultural studies, offering insights that continue to inspire scholars worldwide.

Barceló's scholarly achievements include seminal works such as Toponímia arábica del País Valencià: alqueries i castells (1983), Minorías islámicas en el País Valenciano (1984), and Noms aràbics de lloc (2010). These publications, marked by scientific rigor, not only expanded the understanding of Arabic and medieval toponymy but also positioned her as a successor to the intellectual tradition of Miguel Asín Palacios. Her research illuminated the historical and linguistic landscapes of the Valencian region, particularly through the lens of Arabic place names and their enduring legacy.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Barceló was an active member of key linguistic and cultural institutions. She served as an academician of the Acadèmia Valenciana de la Llengua and contributed to its sections on Onomastics, Lexicography, and Grammar. Despite stepping down in 2003 due to health reasons, her influence within the institution remained significant. Barceló also held membership in the Institut d’Estudis Catalans, further reflecting her dedication to the study and preservation of Catalan and Valencian linguistic heritage.

Her passing has elicited heartfelt tributes from colleagues and institutions alike. The Acadèmia Valenciana de la Llengua expressed its profound condolences, honoring her as a cherished friend and colleague. Her work remains a touchstone for those exploring the intersections of language, history, and identity.

Carme Barceló's legacy endures in the vast body of knowledge she has left behind and in the countless lives she touched as a mentor and scholar. Her contributions to onomastics, particularly the study of Arabic and medieval toponymy, will continue to shape the field for generations.

Rest in peace, Carme Barceló. May the earth lie gently upon you.

Alois Nazarov (1961-2023)

 I do not understand how I could miss this sad news... I was in contact with him in 2022... and thought that he was OK...

On the evening of January 14, 2023, at the age of 61, we lost a beloved friend and colleague, Alois Nazarov - teacher of German, onomastician, historian, publicist, and a true enthusiast of nature and knowledge.

There are people whose mere presence enriches our lives. Alois was one such person, like a kindred flame, bringing warmth and light to everyone around him. A lover of nature, both wild and domestic animals, and the only expert in onomastics in the country, his interests spanned geography, history, local lore, and photography. His curiosity knew no bounds—crosswords, puzzles, and logic games were just a few of his passions, always seeking challenges that were anything but easy. He even took part in the television show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?

Alois was born on October 14, 1961, in the city of Uralsk into a family of teachers. In the late 1960s, his family moved to Volgograd, and two years later to Almaty, a city cherished by his parents. In 1978, he graduated with honors from Secondary School No. 55 and entered the German Language Faculty of the Almaty Pedagogical Institute of Foreign Languages, from which he graduated successfully in 1983. Even as a student, Alois developed a passion for scientific research. He worked in various universities across Kazakhstan and held positions at the Kazakh Academy of Sciences. Over the years, he also worked as a freelance journalist, publicist, and historian. He founded the website Planet of Names and Surnames in 2006, dedicated to the origins of names, family histories, and cultural genealogies across the world.

His website, www.Alnaz.ru, is an extensive resource that offers rich insights into the history and culture of Almaty—its monuments, architecture, and notable figures. Each page or publication is the result of meticulous research, demonstrating Alois’s dedication to uncovering and preserving knowledge.

Alois’s academic journey began in 1979. His research spanned many areas, including anthroponymy, the history of onomastic studies, sociolinguistics, and the local history of Almaty. His primary focus was on personal names and surnames, particularly those of the German population in Kazakhstan, as well as the names of Ural Cossacks and the diverse ethnic groups residing in Almaty. From 2003, he published three annual volumes on anthroponymy and wrote his own monograph. He also participated in scientific conferences and prepared two dictionaries of names.

Alois had an encyclopedic knowledge of Almaty, its architecture, and its historical figures—often more than one could find in Wikipedia. He always had a unique perspective, supported by archival evidence or first-hand accounts, and his wit, humor, and use of quotes from his favorite comedians added a spark to every conversation. His sharp observations and love for photography will forever remain in our memories.

He was a kind, inquisitive, and generous soul. His friends affectionately called him “The Genius” or “The Walking Encyclopedia.” He was a lover of geography and history, and his curiosity knew no limits. Whether it was a casual conversation or a serious academic inquiry, Alois always provided thoughtful advice, backed by solid sources.

In his free time, Alois enjoyed intellectual games, and many of us found ourselves inspired by his deep and expansive knowledge. He was also an avid outdoorsman, a lover of mountain tourism. As he once wrote, “During my hiking career, I completed 11 treks from Almaty to the shores of Issyk-Kul, and the number of weekend hikes is beyond counting—probably close to a thousand.”

His keen observation led him to write numerous articles and publications, including pieces on the Merke River, edelweiss flowers, Tian Shan bears, and the Charyn River. His website Northern Tian Shan Chronicles is filled with educational and insightful articles.

Alois’s father, Ilya Fedorovich Nazarov, was a World War II veteran, historian, and educator. Captured near Kharkov, he endured the horrors of concentration camps in Terezin, Mauthausen, Gusen, Wiener Neustadt, and Ebensee, before being liberated on May 5, 1945. Ilya Nazarov authored several documentary works, including Hello, Andrei, Everything Remains in Memory, and The Court is in Session, all of which can be found on a personal website Alois created in his father’s memory.

Alois also had an impressive photo archive, filled with the most vibrant and significant moments from various events. He never missed a gathering, always following up with detailed, insightful publications, including works on General-Governor Kolpakovsky, Paul Gourdet, and Andrei Zenkov, among others. His trip to India in August 2008 resulted in a fascinating series of articles on the country.

Alois was a man of many talents, and there are endless stories to tell about him. He found joy in the successes of others, read Erich Maria Remarque in the original German, and could passionately debate the quality of a translation.

Together with his mother, Lidia Mikhailovna, Alois cared for birds, street animals, and the environment around him. It’s hard to find the words to express the sorrow of losing someone so good and kind. The world may seem the same, but without him, something vital is missing.

As one friend said while bidding farewell to Alois: “He was always curious, always eager to explore beyond the horizon, choosing the most interesting, thorny, and challenging paths.”

The editorial team extends its deepest condolences to the family and friends of our esteemed colleague, dear friend, and talented companion. We are grateful to everyone who reached out and supported his family in this difficult time. Farewell, dear Alois—you will forever live in our hearts.

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His first ICOS Congress was 61 years ago

 Today, I pay tribute to a luminary in the field of onomastics, Prof. Willy Van Langendonck, whose remarkable career has left an indelible mark on linguistic scholarship. Over six decades ago, in August 1963, a young and enthusiastic Willy Van Langendonck participated in his first International Congress of Onomastic Sciences (ICOS) held in Amsterdam. Little did he know that this event would mark the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the study of names—a commitment that would see him rise to become one of the most respected figures in the field.

Born in Belgian Mechelen in 1938, Willy Van Langendonck embarked on a journey that would intertwine his life with the intricate world of names, dialects, and linguistic theory. He began his career in 1963 as an associate at the Centre International de Dialectologie Générale in Leuven. A year later, he became an assistant at the Institute for Onomastics under Odo Leys. This institute had been founded in 1923 by H.J. Van de Wijer, who played an important role in the development of onomastics. Henri Draye, the father of Luk Draye, was also once a director of the institute. However, in the mid-1970s, the Institute for Onomastics lost its independence and became part of the Department of Linguistics. Over the years, he ascended through the ranks, becoming a full professor in 2002, and cementing his status as a preeminent scholar.

Prof. Van Langendonck's contributions to the field of onomastics are numerous and significant. As a member of the Royal Commission for Toponymy & Dialectology since 1989, and a key figure in the International Council of Onomastic Sciences, where he served as editor-in-chief of Onoma and held various leadership roles from 1968 to 2002, he played a pivotal role in shaping the direction of onomastic research globally. His tenure as vice-secretary-general of ICOS from 1984 to 1987 is particularly noteworthy, during which time he worked tirelessly to promote the study of names across linguistic and cultural boundaries.

Prof. Van Langendonck's scholarly interests are as diverse as they are profound. His research has delved into the theory of proper names, exploring their typology, definiteness, genericity, and number. His work on bynames, especially within the context of South Brabant dialects, has provided invaluable insights into the personal naming systems of the region. Furthermore, his explorations of markedness, iconicity, grammatical relations, and dependency in linguistic structures have broadened our understanding of language's inner workings.

His publication record is extensive, with influential works such as Theory and Typology of Proper Names and numerous articles that have become essential reading for students and scholars alike. His research has not only advanced theoretical linguistics but has also had practical implications for the classification of names, as evidenced by his studies on foundling names and their distinctions from ordinary surnames.

Beyond his scholarly achievements, Prof. Van Langendonck's dedication to teaching and popularizing onomastics in Dutch-speaking Belgium has inspired a new generation of linguists. His commitment to education is reflected in his many lectures and keynote addresses delivered at international congresses, where his insights have been eagerly received by audiences around the world.

As we reflect on Prof. Willy Van Langendonck's extraordinary career, it is clear that his participation in that first ICOS Congress in 1963 was just the beginning of a journey that would see him become a pillar of onomastic research. His legacy is one of intellectual rigor, a passion for the study of names, and a profound influence on the field that will endure for generations to come.

In honoring Prof. Van Langendonck today, we celebrate not only his personal achievements but also the lasting impact he has had on the global onomastic community. His work continues to inspire, and his contributions will remain a cornerstone of linguistic scholarship for years to come.

Special 90th Issue of Acta Linguistica Lithuanica in Honor of Prof. Grasilda Blažienė

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Celebrating a Scholarly Legacy: Prof. Grasilda Blažienė Honored in the 90th Issue of Acta Linguistica Lithuanica

The recently published 90th issue of Acta Linguistica Lithuanica stands as a milestone in more ways than one. Dedicated to the renowned academician Prof. Habil. Dr. Grasilda Blažienė, this special edition not only marks the journal’s anniversary but also pays tribute to a scholar whose work has significantly shaped Lithuanian linguistics and beyond.

On this festive occasion, which coincides with Prof. Blažienė’s 75th birthday, the Lithuanian academic community gathered to celebrate her vast contributions. Her research, spanning Onomastics, Prussian, Lithuanian, and Baltic studies, has had a profound impact, reaching far beyond national borders. Her scholarly achievements are recognized both domestically and internationally, as highlighted by her receiving the prestigious Knight's Cross of the Order of the Grand Duke of Lithuania Gediminas from President Gitanas Nausėda.

In honor of her life’s work, the Library of the Institute of the Lithuanian Language has opened an exhibition titled Finding the Best, showcasing the breadth of her contributions. This event serves as a reminder of the vital role scholars like Prof. Blažienė play in preserving and advancing our linguistic heritage.

The editorial team of Acta Linguistica Lithuanica and the wider academic community express their heartfelt congratulations to Prof. Blažienė. We wish her continued health, energy, and success as she continues to inspire and lead in the fields of science, culture, and beyond.

Stergios Manouras (1934-2024)

Dear all,

It is with sadness that we learned of the loss of the founding member of the Greek Onomastic Society, Stergios Manouras, who passed away last Friday. Stergios Manouras was a pillar of the Society, a key contributor to its Statute, and an enthusiastic member in all its activities. The Onomastic Society mourns the loss of such a beloved member and esteemed onomastician.

May his memory be eternal!

Our heartfelt condolences to his family.

Αγαπητά μέλη της ΕΟΕ,

με θλίψη πληροφορηθήκαμε την απώλεια του ιδρυτικού μέλους μας Στέργιου Μανουρά, ο οποίος απεβίωσε την περασμένη Παρασκευή. Ο Στέργιος Μανουράς υπήρξε στυλοβάτης της Ελληνικής Ονοματολογικής Εταιρείας, βασικός συντάκτης του Καταστατικού της και ένθερμο μέλος της σε όλες τις δράσεις της, ενώ με ζέση και αποφασιστικότητα, λειτουργούσε πάντα ως πυλώνας στήριξης, μεταξύ άλλων, των οργανωτικών και διοικητικών θεμάτων. Η Εταιρεία μας θρηνεί την απώλεια ενός τόσο αγαπητού της μέλους και άξιου ονοματολόγου. Η εξόδιος ακολουθία θα λάβει χώρα αύριο στις 10.00 π.μ. στο κοιμητήριο Χολαργού. Η ΕΟΕ έχει φροντίσει να κατατεθεί συλλυπητήριο στεφάνι εκ μέρους όλων των μελών της.

 
Αιωνία του η μνήμη!

Θερμά συλλυπητήρια στους οικείους του

Happy 90th Birthday to Prof. Dr. Karlheinz Hengst!

Namenkundliches Zentrum der Uni Leipzig

At a festive reception in Chemnitz, Prof. Dr. Karlheinz Hengst, the first professor of onomastics at Leipzig University (1993- 1999) and founding member of the German Society for Onomastic Research, was honored on the occasion of his 90th birthday. Karlheinz Hengst has been there from the very beginning, 70 years ago, when the Onomastic Working Group was founded in Leipzig, and he has remained connected to Leipzig University ever since. Recently, he passed the baton in Jena to an initiative that will focus on Thuringian place names. He continues to be active as a consultant, especially for Slavic names, at the Naming Advisory Center.

Following the laudation by Dietlind Kremer, who also conveyed the congratulations from the University of Leipzig, the attendees were delighted by the news that in April, a collected volume containing the latest writings of the jubilarian on the topic of 'Germans and Slavs in the Middle Ages: Dominance and Integration,' edited by Andrea and Silvio Brendler, will be published by Baar-Verlag Hamburg. Onomasticians and historians alike can look forward to this new publication. The good news was celebrated with the sound of violins.

For this, we extend our heartfelt thanks and: WE CONGRATULATE HEARTILY on this special birthday !!!