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Where the name "Baltrum" comes from, nobody really knows and there are several theories about its origin.
The first time the island was mentioned it was called "Balteringe" and it was in an document from the year 1398, It seems that the word is an Old - Friesian word and it means "grassland".
A debatable theory that is nevertheless mentioned again and again associates the name "Baltrum" with the cult around the God "Balder", the son of Odin - the Teutonic father of some Gods - and Frigga.
From a linguistic perspective - when we consider "Balteringe" -, the "ing-form" in "Balteringe" means: "Settlement of the family such and so"; the family name is not known. The meaning of the word "Balter" In this context might be interesting > germ. 'bald' > "bold, brave", very popular in old Teutonic names of persons. It is likely that later "Balteringe" turned into "Baltrum" because of the many surrounding villages with names ending on "um" in East Friesland.
It might be worth mentioning that in former times old islanders used the name "Baltern" and approximately 200 years ago during a short period the name "Bemeroog" was used, modelled on "Berum" on the mainland - the place where the authorities then were seated.
And when cynics mock about the origin of the name of our island, saying it will be derived from small size - when you walk around it you will be "bald rum" (quickly around) - , we will turn a blind eye to that interpretation.
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