The surname Zischke has its origins in Germany, specifically in the regions of Saxony and Silesia, dating back to the medieval period. It is believed to be derived from a Slavic root, indicating that the name might have connections to the Slavic-speaking populations that lived in those regions. The name Zischke may have originated from a diminutive or pet form of Slavonic personal names, particularly those starting with the root "Czisz" or "Czich," which means to hiss or a similar sound, reflecting a characteristic or occupation.

Historical records of the surname Zischke are sparse but indicative of a deep-rooted lineage. One of the earliest mentions of a family similar to Zischke can be found in the 13th century when surnames began to stabilize in European culture. In manuscripts and records from Saxony, variations of the name like Zieschke and Zyšek have been noted, reflecting the fluctuating orthography of that period.

By the 16th century, the surname Zischke appeared more frequently in parish records and official documents. One notable figure was Hans Zischke, born in 1574 and a notable landowner in Saxony, referenced in several land transaction records. Another early bearer of the name was Joachim Zischke, an influential merchant in Breslau (now Wrocław) during the early 17th century, whose business dealings were well-documented in municipal records of the time.

The 18th century saw Johann Friedrich Zischke, born in 1723, who was a prominent academic and held a professorship at the University of Leipzig. His contributions to the field of natural sciences were well-recognized, and several published academic papers bear his name. In the 19th century, Karl Zischke, born in 1809, was a noted composer whose works were performed in various German cities and whose influence in the realm of classical music is still appreciated.

Another notable person was August Zischke, born in 1857, who emigrated to the United States. He became an influential member of the German-American community in Wisconsin, largely contributing to the cultural exchange between the old and new worlds. His name appears in several community directories and newspapers of the time.

The most famous Zischke in recent historical records would be Hans-Jürgen Zischke, born in 1934, a German engineer whose innovations in electrical engineering significantly impacted advancements in technology, particularly during the industrial boom of post-war Germany. His works and patents remain influential in engineering circles.

The surname Zischke, with its rich yet obscure historical roots, reveals a lineage encompassing various regions, professions, and contributions to society. While not the most common surname, it holds an enduring legacy through the individuals who bore it and their respective accomplishments throughout the centuries.