Hu Michael,
I'm researching surname Grubin, and I found that Gruben is Germa origin.
If you go on:
http://www.infokey.com/hon/and search for Grubin surname you will find that it's German origin and
some other details. I ordered from this company a search and they send
me a letter with some history and family Coat of Arms.
Letter I received from Int. Hall of names is full of history which you
can find in books. The only interesting is that Grubins where German
Knights from 1774 and that they were divided in Austrian, Danish and
Swedish branch. The Swedish branch raised to nobility in 1645, German
Knights became Barons in 1805. and Austrian branch became Barons in
1867. Grubins emigrated to USA (Pennsylvania, Illinois, Texas,
California, New York, Ohio) and Canada (Ontario and Prairies) in 17th,
18th and 19th century. But they did not send me any names or more info.
In the text I received from them sometimes they write Gruben and other times Grubin.
Thay say that is Gruben is right spelling for pronouncing Grubin.
Any way Grube is mine on German.
All the best and good luck in your search,
Aleksandra