The surname RECHTZIGEL has its origins in Germany, with the earliest known records dating back to the late 15th century. It is believed to have originated in the region of Saxony, where it was likely derived from a combination of the German words "recht" (meaning "right" or "straight") and "Ziegel" (meaning "brick" or "tile"). This suggests that the name may have initially referred to an occupation or trade related to brickmaking or construction.

One of the earliest documented instances of the RECHTZIGEL surname can be found in a registry of births and deaths from the town of Chemnitz, located in present-day Saxony, Germany. This record, dated 1487, mentions a certain Hans RECHTZIGEL, who was likely a brickmaker or mason by trade.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, the RECHTZIGEL name appeared in various historical documents and records throughout the region of Saxony and neighboring areas. Notable examples include the baptismal records of St. Michael's Church in Leipzig, which list several individuals bearing the RECHTZIGEL surname between 1550 and 1620.

In the 18th century, the RECHTZIGEL name spread beyond Saxony as families began to migrate to other parts of Germany and Europe. One notable figure from this period was Johann Friedrich RECHTZIGEL (1722-1798), a renowned Lutheran theologian and author from Saxony, whose works on religious philosophy and ethics were widely influential during the Enlightenment era.

Another historically significant individual with the RECHTZIGEL surname was Karl RECHTZIGEL (1776-1856), a prominent architect and urban planner from Berlin. He was responsible for the design and construction of several notable buildings and public spaces in the city, including the Gendarmenmarkt Square and the Friedrichswerder Church.

In the 19th century, the RECHTZIGEL name continued to be associated with various professions and trades, particularly in the fields of construction and engineering. One notable figure from this period was August RECHTZIGEL (1849-1912), a civil engineer from Saxony who played a crucial role in the development of Germany's railway infrastructure during the Industrial Revolution.

As the 20th century dawned, the RECHTZIGEL surname could be found across various regions of Germany, as well as in other parts of Europe where German immigrants had settled. One notable individual from this era was Erich RECHTZIGEL (1901-1971), a German painter and sculptor known for his abstract expressionist works, which were heavily influenced by the Bauhaus movement.

While the RECHTZIGEL surname has its roots in Germany, it has since spread to other parts of the world, as descendants of the original RECHTZIGEL families have migrated and established themselves in various countries over the centuries.