Bownes

The surname Bownes is of English origin and is derived from the Old French personal name "Bo(h)ne", meaning "good" or "friendly". This name was introduced into England after the Norman Conquest of 1066 and eventually evolved into the surname Bownes.

Origins

The Bownes family has historical roots in various regions of England, including Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Westmoreland. The surname has undergone variations in spelling over time, such as Bowne, Bowens, and Boynes, reflecting the different regional dialects and accents of England.

Notable Individuals

There are various notable individuals with the surname Bownes, including:

  • Thomas Bownes (1809-1868) – A renowned British architect known for his Gothic Revival style buildings, with notable works including churches and public buildings in London and surrounding areas.
  • Mary Bownes – A distinguished British biologist and academic, known for her pioneering research in molecular biology and genetics.

Modern Distribution

The surname Bownes continues to be present in England and its former colonies, with variations like Bowen, Bown, and Bowne also existing. The name has spread to other parts of the world due to migration and the British colonial legacy.

Coat of Arms

The Bownes family crest features elements representing strength, loyalty, and prosperity. The shield typically displays symbols such as lions, fleurs-de-lis, and heraldic banners that are characteristic of English heraldry.

Legacy

The surname Bownes embodies a rich history of English ancestry and heritage, with many individuals proudly bearing the name today. Whether through genealogical records or personal family histories, the legacy of the Bownes surname continues to be celebrated and preserved both in the United Kingdom and abroad.

There are approximately 503 people named Bownes in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around eight in a million people in Britain are named Bownes.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

  • Alan
  • Andrew
  • David
  • Gary
  • George
  • John
  • Mark
  • Michael
  • Nigel
  • Paul
  • Stephen
  • William

Female

  • Ann
  • Elizabeth
  • Helen
  • Janet
  • June
  • Linda
  • Lisa
  • Maria
  • Mary
  • Sarah
  • Susan

Similar and related surnames

Related and similar names are generated algorithmically based on the spelling, and may not necessarily share an etymology.

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