Last Name Howell

The last name "Howell" is of Welsh origin. It is derived from the Welsh personal name "Hywel," which means "eminent" or "prominent." Over time, it started to be used as a surname and gradually transformed into Howell. The name Howell is quite common in Wales and has also spread to other English-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Howell

The meaning and origin of the last name Howell

The surname Howell is derived from the Welsh personal name Hywel, which means "eminent" or "prominent." The name is of ancient Celtic origin and can be traced back to the early medieval period in Wales. The prominence of the personal name Hywel led to the adoption of Howell as a hereditary surname among Welsh families. The surname Howell can be found throughout Wales and has spread to other English-speaking countries primarily through Welsh migration. It has several variations, including Howells, Howel, and Howelis. The first recorded spelling of the surname Howell dates back to the 12th century, with variations appearing in early written records such as church registers, charters, and tax rolls. Over time, individuals with the surname Howell have made significant contributions in various fields, including literature, politics, and academics. Notable bearers of the surname include the Welsh novelist and poet E. Nesbit (Edith Bland), as well as politicians and historical figures like Howell Harris, a prominent leader of the Welsh Methodist revival in the 18th century.

Geographical distribution of the last name Howell

The last name Howell has a diverse geographical distribution, with concentrations found in several countries. In the United States, Howell is a common surname, particularly in the southern states such as Georgia, Texas, and Alabama. It is believed to have originated from Wales and migrated to the United States during colonial times. In Wales itself, the name is still prevalent, particularly in the southern parts of the country. The Howell surname also has significant representation in England, especially in the counties of Kent, Bedfordshire, and Shropshire. Additionally, Howell can be found in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, stemming from Welsh and English immigrants who settled in these regions. The global reach of the Howell last name indicates its long history and widespread dispersal, reflective of the movement and settlement of people across different continents over many generations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Howell

The last name Howell may have a few variations and spellings depending on regional differences and historical factors. Some common variations include Howel, Howells, Howelis, Howill, Howlin, Howlyn, and Howland. These variations may have evolved over time due to different influences such as dialects, migrations, and changes in spelling conventions. For instance, the spelling Howlin may have originated in Ireland, where the pronunciation of the name could have inclined more towards this variation. Similarly, the spelling Howland might have emerged in England, where it could represent a distinctive regional variant. These variations and spellings of the last name Howell contribute to the rich tapestry of surnames and demonstrate the diverse ways in which a name can evolve over generations and across different regions.

Famous people with the last name Howell

One famous person with the last name Howell is Steve Howell, an American blues musician and singer-songwriter. He is known for his soulful voice and masterful guitar skills, which he has showcased in numerous albums and live performances. Howell has been actively involved in the blues scene since the 1960s and has collaborated with renowned artists like Bonnie Raitt and Taj Mahal. Another notable figure with the last name Howell is Tommie Howell, an American football player who played as a running back in the National Football League (NFL). Howell had a successful career, playing for teams like the Cleveland Browns and the Green Bay Packers during the 1950s and early 1960s. Known for his speed and agility on the field, Howell left a lasting impact in the history of American football.

Genealogical research on the last name Howell

The Howell surname has a rich history that can be traced back to medieval England. It is derived from the Welsh personal name "Hywel," which means "eminent" or "notable." The name first appears in the historical record in the 11th century, with notable bearers such as Hywel ap Cadell, the King of Deheubarth, and Hywel Dda, a famous Welsh ruler known for his codification of laws. Over time, the Howell family expanded its influence and migrated to various parts of the world. One prominent branch settled in America during the colonial period, particularly in Virginia and Pennsylvania. They went on to play significant roles in American history, contributing to politics, arts, academia, and industry. Genealogical research on the Howell surname can uncover connections to illustrious lineage, particularly among Welsh and American descendants. With an array of resources available, individuals interested in the Howell family history can explore archives, census records, birth and death certificates, wills, and even online platforms to build a comprehensive family tree.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Howell"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

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