Last Name Bowsher

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bowsher

The meaning and origin of the last name Bowsher

The surname Bowsher is of English origin, derived from the Middle English word "bowsher," which was a term used to refer to a person who was responsible for the care and maintenance of bows and arrows. This occupational surname would have been given to individuals who worked as bowyers or fletchers in medieval England. The surname Bowsher likely originated in the Middle Ages when such specialized occupations were common and necessary for warfare and hunting. Over time, the surname has evolved and been passed down through generations, with variations in spelling such as Bowcher and Boucher also being seen in historical records. Today, individuals with the surname Bowsher can be found primarily in English-speaking countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bowsher

The last name Bowsher is primarily found in the United Kingdom, particularly in England and Wales. There are also smaller concentrations of individuals with the surname in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Within the UK, the name is most commonly found in the Midlands region and in areas such as Nottinghamshire, Leicestershire, and Warwickshire. In the United States, states such as Ohio, Michigan, and California have notable populations of individuals with the last name Bowsher. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Bowsher surname suggests a predominantly English origin, with some dispersion to other English-speaking countries through migration and settlement patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bowsher

The last name Bowsher may also be spelled as Boucher, Bousher, Bauscher, or Baucher. Other variations of the name include Bowcher, Bowser, Beaucher, Beuscher, and Bawscher. The surname can also be found as Bawsher, Boussher, Bashour, Boshar, or Bausch. Additionally, the name may be recorded as Boucherat, Bouchier, Bouché, Baußner, or Bauch. Other possible variations include Bishor, Bashir, Busher, Boeshaar, and Buxar. Ultimately, the spelling and variations of the surname Bowsher can differ based on regional influences, family traditions, and historical records.

Famous people with the last name Bowsher

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Bowsher include James Bowsher, former director of the United States Office of Management and Budget; George Bowsher, an American basketball player who played in the National Basketball Association; and Dave Bowsher, a British football referee known for his officiating in various high-profile matches. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have gained recognition for their expertise and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Bowsher

The Bowsher surname has English origins, deriving from the Old English words "boga" meaning bow, and "sceaga" meaning copse or small wood. The earliest recorded instance of the surname dates back to the 13th century in Warwickshire, England. The Bowsher family has since spread throughout the United Kingdom, with notable concentrations in Staffordshire, Shropshire, and London. Records show members of the Bowsher family immigrating to the United States in the 18th and 19th centuries, settling primarily in the states of Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois. Today, the surname Bowsher can be found across the United States, particularly in the Midwest region. Genealogical research on the Bowsher family may uncover connections to prominent individuals in English history, as well as provide insights into the migration patterns of the family over the centuries.