Kivela Family History

Finnish (Kivelä): habitational name from farms so named from kivi ‘stone’ + the locative suffix -lä. Established as a hereditary surname since the 19th century in southern, western, and northern Finland and also used in the name-changing campaigns of the early 20th century.

As an ornamental name, Kivelä was adopted to replace Swedish surnames formed with sten ‘stone’. This practice showcased a shift from traditional Swedish names to Finnish nuances during a period of cultural and national identity reformation.

Examples of Swedish surnames that were replaced include names like Stenvall, Stenroos, and Stenberg. Each of these names carries the root meaning of stone and reflects a similar etymological background as Kivelä.

The transition in surnaming illustrates the broader socio-political changes occurring in Finland, particularly during the early 20th century when national identity became increasingly significant.

Overall, Kivelä not only serves as a family name but also represents a historical narrative of linguistic evolution and cultural pride within Finland.