MACDOWELL
Also recorded as Mac Dowell, Macdowell
MacDowell
MacDowell is a Scottish and Irish surname of Gaelic origin. It is an anglicised form of the Gaelic name "Mac Dubhghaill" which means "son of Dubhghall". The name Dubhghall itself is derived from the Old Norse name "Djúghvaldr", meaning "deep ruler" or "dark stranger".
The MacDowell surname is predominantly found in Scotland and Northern Ireland, having roots in the ancient Gaelic clans of those regions. The MacDowells have a rich history and have been associated with various notable individuals and families over the centuries.
The MacDowell name can be traced back to early medieval Scotland where they held lands and played significant roles in their respective communities. The name has undergone variations in spelling over time, including MacDowall, McDowell, and McDugald among others.
Today, individuals bearing the MacDowell surname can be found across the United Kingdom, as well as in other parts of the world including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, reflecting the widespread diaspora of Scottish and Irish people.
The MacDowell surname continues to be an important part of British and Irish history, representing a connection to the rich cultural heritage of the Celtic peoples.
There are approximately 85 people named MacDowell in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named MacDowell.