Little is known about the exact age and origin of the name of Appingedam. It came into existence on the banks of the Delf, the present Damsterdiep, around 1200. The name originates from a dam built in the "Appe" or "Apt". In 1327, Appingedam received city rights from the free Frisians of the Upstalboom near the East Frisian city of Aurich. Appingedam and Aurich still have friendly liaisons via a partnership called the "Partnerschaft" or "Town's bond". Appingedam is located in the region Fivelingo, which in the Middle Ages was a part of Frisia.