BOWDEN
Bowden
Origin and Meaning:
Bowden is a locational surname of Old English origin, derived from the words 'boga' (meaning 'bend' or 'curve') and 'dun' (meaning 'hill'). It likely signifies a person who resided near a curved hill or a bow-shaped valley.
History:
Historically, the surname Bowden dates back to the early Middle Ages in Britain. The name was initially used to identify people by their place of origin, as was common during that period. Over time, individuals with the surname Bowden spread throughout the country, establishing various branches of the family in different regions.
Notable Individuals:
-
Sir Frank Bowden (1848–1921): A British businessman who is best known for transforming Raleigh Bicycle Company into one of the largest bicycle manufacturers in the world.
-
Sue Bowden (b. 1963): A renowned British artist known for her intricate textile designs and innovative artwork.
Variants:
Variants of the surname Bowden include Boulden, Boden, and Bowdon.
Distribution:
Today, the surname Bowden is found predominantly in England, particularly in regions with historical ties to the name's origin. However, Bowdens can also be found in other parts of the British Isles and in countries where British descendants have settled, such as Australia, the United States, and Canada.
Coat of Arms:
The Bowden family has a distinguished coat of arms, featuring symbols that represent their heritage and values. The coat of arms typically includes heraldic elements such as shields, crosses, and mottoes that signify the family's lineage and achievements.
Legacy:
The Bowden surname bears testament to the rich history and heritage of British families. Through their contributions to various fields and their enduring presence in communities, individuals with the surname Bowden have left a lasting legacy that continues to be celebrated today.
There are approximately 14,828 people named Bowden in the UK. That makes it the 599th most common surname in Britain. Around 228 in a million people in Britain are named Bowden.
Surname type: Location or geographical feature
Origin: English
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: England
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: English
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- Christopher
- David
- James
- John
- Mark
- Michael
- Paul
- Peter
- Robert
Female
- Carol
- Christine
- Claire
- Elizabeth
- Emma
- Margaret
- Mary
- Nicola
- Patricia
- Sarah
- Susan
Similar and related surnames
Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.