MCDOWELL
Also recorded as Mc Dowell, Mcdowell
McDowell
McDowell is a prominent Scottish and Irish surname that originated from the Gaelic name "Mac Dubhghaill," meaning "son of Dubhghall." The name Dubhghall itself can be translated to mean "dark stranger" or "dark foreigner."
History and Origin
The McDowell surname can be traced back to the 12th century when the Gaelic practice of using "Mac" to denote "son of" was common. The McDowell clan was known for its connections to County Antrim in Northern Ireland and Galloway in Scotland. Over the centuries, the McDowell family spread across the British Isles and beyond, with descendants found in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.
Notable Individuals
The McDowell surname has been associated with several notable individuals throughout history. One prominent figure was the Scottish-born British Army officer and explorer Sir Henry McDowell, who played a significant role in the expansion of the British Empire during the Victorian era. In modern times, the name McDowell can be found in various fields, including politics, entertainment, and sports.
Coat of Arms
The McDowell family coat of arms typically features elements such as a black shield with a silver chevron and three gold lions rampant. These symbols often represent attributes such as strength, courage, and loyalty, reflecting the values held by the McDowell clan.
Legacy
Today, the McDowell surname continues to be passed down through generations, connecting individuals to a rich and diverse heritage. The name McDowell serves as a reminder of the ancestral ties that bind families together and the enduring legacy of those who came before.
There are approximately 5,149 people named McDowell in the UK. That makes it roughly the 1,835th most common surname in Britain. Around 79 in a million people in Britain are named McDowell.
Surname type: From name of parent
Origin: Celtic
Region of origin: British Isles
Country of origin: Ireland
Religion of origin: Christian
Language of origin: Gaelic
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Andrew
- David
- James
- John
- Michael
- Paul
- Robert
- Stephen
- Thomas
- William
Female
- Alison
- Barbara
- Catherine
- Elizabeth
- Jacqueline
- Julie
- Karen
- Linda
- Margaret
- Mary
- Sandra
- Sarah
- Susan